Motorcycle Helmets: What Style Is The Right One For You?

When it comes to motorcycle riding, a motorcycle helmet is the most important piece of gear that you own. Most states require that you wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle. There are three major styles of motorcycle helmets from which you can choose: full face, 3/4 and half helmets. Choosing a motorcycle helmet should be based on personal preferences, styles and safety. Within these three categories, there are also numerous variations in style and features.

Full face helmets offer the most protection of all of the available motorcycle helmet types. The addition of the chin bar gives maximum protection to the rider, while the visor protects the eyes. Full face helmets are the only style to offer some protection of the neck. When looking at full face helmets, examine the ventilation system, which can greatly impact your comfort while riding. Because a full face helmet can be the bulkiest of all motorcycle helmet styles, make sure that the style you choose feels natural and fits comfortable on your head. Lightweight full face helmets can reduce neck and shoulder strain, making your ride more enjoyable.

Three-quarter shell motorcycle helmets are those most often seen on law enforcement officials riding motorcycles. These cover most of the head, and are held in place with a chin strap. Unlike a full face helmet, this style does not typically have a face shield; it may also be known as an "open face helmet" for this reason. Many riders wear wrap-around sunglasses to protect their face from flying debris and other hazards when wearing a three-quarter or half helmet because they lack the built-in face protection of a full face helmet.

Half helmets are small and lightweight. Many are made with high-tech materials such as carbon fiber, resulting in a sturdy yet lightweight motorcycle helmet. Many like the look of half-helmets over other styles. Although some believe that you must purchase a full face helmet to enjoy maximum protection, many half helmets are DOT approved. Still, this style of motorcycle helmet is designed mainly to protect the top of the head in an accident, and usually provides the least amount of protection of the three motorcycle helmet types. On the other hand, they are also the least restrictive, and can be more comfortable to wear.

Electric Scooter Proves To Be A Low Cost For Transportation

Do you need a short-distance mode of transportation that doesn't require insurance or a drivers license? They run on an elctric motor in the rear hub and are available with ABS brakes. They come with top of the line lights and tail lights, high and low beams. A scooter can take a 79 kilogram person up a 25% grade. The average speed is 32 km/h. Helmets are required. Though you aren't required to have a drivers license or insurance, you must be 16 years old.

Respect from other drivers is the most important thing as it relates to safety for scooter riders, because the scooter is a "vehicle" too. The electric scooter is becoming more functional as it's popularity grows. The Ministry of Transportation has classified scooters under the same category as the bicycle if you can believe it. What originated in British Columbia, is gaining momentum and popularity in America. Most are priced at about $1500 upwards to $2400.

You can check these little vehicles out at http://www.motorino.ca/.

Motorcycle Event

Just wanted to give a heads up on an upcoming motorcycle event. It's the Colors For The Cross Bike Rally. The information I have is it is sponsored by various motorcycle ministries. The rally will start at the National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds Highway on 231 South in Dothan, Alabama at 12:00 pm. There will be a bike show, an organized ride, music and other entertainment. They have a website you can go to and get more information: http://www.colorsforthecross.com/

Women Only

What a great event. As you can see, women are just as serious about their ride and the guys. Don't forget your motorcycle helmets:Women's Garage Party 201 at Thunder Creek HD - Chattanooga, TN
A women's only party to learn everything Harley® Part II! Forget the guys, grab your friends and come join us! Admission is Free! Refreshments available! RSVP 423-892-4888 See our website for details www.thundercreekharley.com

Friday, August 14, 2009
06:30 PM - 09:00 PM
Cost:Free
Categories:
Location Event
Location: Map Weather
Thunder Creek Harley-Davidson, Chattanooga
7720 Lee HighwayChattanooga, TN 37421Hamilton CountyUSA Browse Events at this Location
Event Contact InfoThunder Creek H-D, ChattanoogaEmail:
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contacttc@thecreekhd.comPhone: 423-892-4888Website: Click to Visit

Charity Fundraiser

I just found out about this motorcycle rally event. It just happens to be local right here in my home state of Alabama. 3rd Annual Bikers for M.D.A. - Guntersville, AL
The 3rd Annual Bikers for M.D.A. will be in Guntersville Al. on August 14th - 16th. Nashville Recording Artist Kacy Fox (now with Stardust Records of Nashville) will be Live in Concert from 3-6pm on August 15th. This fundraiser hopes to host over 2000 Bikers this year.
There is a Bike and Car show all weekend, Poker Run, maybe even a Bike Parade thur town? Vendors, Live entertainment from Kacy Fox, Jeff Cook, and more!
For more info contact Ron Heath at: http://www.bikersformda.blogspot.com/ or email me here and I'll try to answere any of your questions.
This is a 3 Day Event.
Saturday, August 15, 2009
10:00 AM - 03:00 PM
Cost:Fundraiser
Categories:
Bikefest/ Rally/ Bike Week/ Meet (multiday event)
Biker Party
Charity - Fundraiser Event
H.O.G Event
Motorcycle Show / Contest - Awards Given
Not Biker Specific - Festivals, Concerts, etc.
Poker Run - Scavenger Hunt
Vendors Welcome (contact event coordinator)
Location: Map Weather
Civitan Park
Corner of Hwy 69 and Lurleene Wallas Dr.Guntersville, AL 35976USA Browse Events at this Location
Event Contact InfoRon HeathEmail:
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kacyfox@yahoo.comWebsite: Click to Visit

Major Motorcycle Events In 2009

It's nice to be able to stay on top of the major motorcycle events across the country. While you can't attend them all, it does give you the opportunity to pick and choose which ones you can plan on attending. What is your favorite event?
ABATE Boogie Biker Rally (IN, Jul)
AMA Motorcycle Days (OH, Jul)
Americade Bike Rally (NY, Jun)
American Salute (CO, Aug)
AM JAM Rally (NY, May)
Arizona Bike Week (AZ, Mar to Apr)
Atlantic Beach Bike Week/Black Biker Week (SC, May)
Aspen Cash Bike Rally (NM, May)
Beartooth Motorcycle Rally/Iron Horse Rodeo (MT, Jul)
Bikes Blues Bbq (AR, Sep)
Big Bear Choppers Ride the Mountain (CA, Jun)
Biketoberfest Daytona (FL, Oct)
Black Biker's Rally/Atlantic Beach Bike Week (SC, May)
Branson Bike Rally (MO, May)
Carlisle Bike Fest (PA, Jul)
Cycle World Bike Shows (Various)
Daytona Bike Week (FL, Feb-Mar)
Delmarva Biker Rally (MD, Sep)
Easyriders Bike Shows (Various)
Easyriders Rodeo Tour (Various)
Fire and Ice Bike Rally (NM, Jul)
Golden Aspen Bike Rally (NM, Sep)
Gulfport Harley Blowout (MS, May)
Harley Rendezvous Rally (NY, Jun)
Harley Love Ride (CA, Oct)
Hogs on the High Seas (Mar-Apr, Nov)
Hollister Biker Rally (CA, Canceled)
Honda Hoot Bike Rally (TN, Canceled)
Key West Poker Run (FL, Sep)
Laconia Biker Rally (NH, Jun)
LA Calendar Show (CA, Jul)
Las Vegas Bike Week (NV, Sep)
Laughlin Biker Rally (NV, Apr)
Leesburg Bike Fest (FL, Apr)
Little Sturgis Bike Rally (KY, Jul)
Lone Star Galveston Rally (TX, Oct - Nov)
Milwaukee Rally (WI, Sep)
Myrtle Beach Bike Week (SC, May)
Myrtle Beach Fall Rally (SC, Oct)
Ohio Bike Week (OH, Jun)
Oyster Run (WA, Sep)
Phil Petersons Key West Poker Run (FL, Sep)
Red River Bike Run (NM, May)
Roar to the Shore (NJ, Sep)
Rolling Thunder Ride to the Wall (DC, May)
ROT Biker Rally (TX, Jun)
SPI Bike Rally (TX, Oct)
Street Vibrations Bike Rally (NV, Sep)
Sturgis Biker Rally (SD, Aug)
Sturgis River Biker Rally (IA, Jun)
Thunder Beach Spring Bike Rally (FL, Apr-May)
Thunder Beach Fall Bike Rally (FL, Sep)
Thunder in the Valley (PA, Jun)
Trail of Tears Ride (TN to AL, Sep)
Wing Ding Rally (TN, Jul)

Women Motorcycle Riders

In an ongoing effort to celebrate women riders, and those who dream of riding Harley- Davidson will host the third annual Womens Day on Sunday, August 2nd, 2009, during the 69th Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. The Motor Company will also offer a variety of activities for women throughout the rally between August 1-7, including an interactive womens area featuring motorcycle product information, seminars and giveaways. Women who visit the interactive area at the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center will find a wide array of information, from new functional and fashionable gear, to becoming a mentor to new riders, demonstations on how to pick up a bike, and a scavenger hunt, as well as information for new riders looking to get behind the handlebars of their own motorcycles. Harley-Davidson will donate $5 to the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA) for each woman who completes the scavenger hunt. Next month one of the country's most popular motorcycle events takes place in South Dakota, the 69th Sturgis Rally.

Riders from around the world will arrive at Rapid City, South Dakota in the first week of August for what is considered the largest motorcycle event in the United States.

Popular Motorcycle Helmet

The Dot Eagle Flag vented motorcycle helmet is one of the most popular helmets on the market today. I guess it's because it is so lightweight. I weighs in at approximately 30 ounces. The vented helmets have been tested and keeps you 20 degrees cooler. If you are in the market for an affordable, sharp looking and high quality motorcycle helmet, I recommend you check it out.

Motorcyling In Florida

I guess we picked the perfect week to vacation in Florida. The weather was beautiful all week, while it rained everyday back home in Alabama. While in Panama City, I was very surprised to see how few people actually wear motorcycle helmets. Just from talking to a few people it seems to go back to the nostalgia of the freedom not wearing a helmet represents. You remember, the old days in the movies, we all use to watch of the motorcycle riders going down the long straight highway with their hair blowing and the wind in their face. The fact is, that is the way it is today. However, there are many more vehicles on the road with the motorcyclists today than there were then. Also, the motorcycles today reach much higher speeds than in the years past.

I will admit there were a few riders with motorcycle helmets going down the roadways. Actually the motorcycle es built today turn more heads than the ones riding them. There were some beautiful Harley Davidson motorcycles on the road, I couldn't tell you near as much about the riders as I could about the ride they were on. Having said this, it is still a proven fact that there is a much larger possibility of having an accident on a motorcycle than there is in a car. With the lacak of protection offered by a motorcycle as it relates to an accident, wearing a motorcycle helmet is still the most effective insurance on has against suffering a serious or life threatening injury. You can enjoy the freedom and still look "cool" wearing a helmet just as good as you can not wearing a helmet. Even though it isn't a law in some states it is a matter of how much value you have on your life, not to mention your loved ones who would also be affected by a catastrophic event such as an accident on a motorcycle. It doesn't matter who is at fault. In most cases it will be the guy or girl or both who is on the motorcycle that will come out with the short straw.

I will be the first one to admit, it feels great on a bike without a helmet, but lets be realistic. The possibility of an accident occurring is always there. Doesn't it make sense to wear a helmet to protect yourself from a head injury? I want to grow old and see my grandchildren, how about you?

So, You Think You Want A Motorcycle?

First Time Rider

Thinking about getting a motorcycle for the first time? Maybe you always had a fantasy where you are riding down the road with the wind in your face? It's never too late to make that dream come true, but a beginning motorcycle rider should take some precautions and take the time to learn about their new hobby first. Here are some tips for the beginning motorcycle rider, to stay safe and have fun at the same time?

Picking a Motorcycle

It's important to select the right motorcycle for your style of riding. Do you want a motorcycle built for speed or maybe you just want a motorcycle that allows you to cruise down the road at your leisure? Maybe you just want to save money on gas and get from point A to point B quickly. It's important to decide exactly what you want out of the experience and then research different makes and models for your purposes. It may also be helpful to visit local dealers and ask them for recommendations for the right motorcycle.

Lessons

So you've driven a car for most of your adult life, does that mean you can jump on a bike for the first time, instantly know what you're doing and be a safe motorcyclist? Highly unlikely, if you've never ridden a bike before. It's essential to take a motorcycle safety course. Taking a course can drastically reduce the chances of having an accident on your bike. It's certainly worth the time and money to invest in taking a safety course for everyone who may ride your bike. You may also consider getting a book to help you brush up on basic motorcycle safety and riding rules.

Practice

Once you have learned the basics of motorcycle safety, it's important to practice riding first. Whether in your driveway, down a little used street or alleyway, try to practice steering the bike, leaning, using turn signals, the brakes, using the mirrors, stopping and any other controls. Honk the horn a few times. Sit on the bike a while and get comfortable before turning the key. On your first ride, be cautious as you may be prone to falling. Whether or not you choose to learn motorcycle safety, take a course or learn from a book or instructor, putting some time into getting familiar with your bike and practicing basic procedures is a smart thing to do.

Safety Equipment

Choosing the right safety equipment and accessories is also essential. A motorcycle helmet should be your first priority. A good motorcycle helmet will be comfortable but still protect your head in an accident. For first time riders, also consider extra padding, including padding for knees. Goggles are also important, a good pair of goggles are important for glare reduction, protection of your eyes in all weather situations and for protection from flying debris like pebbles, rocks, dirt and bugs. Other accessories should include gloves and a jacket. Another safety tip for beginning riders is to stick out by choosing bright colored clothing and a motorcycle helmet. Whether it's a white, orange, red or neon motorcycle helmet, your chances of being in an accident go down quite a bit by just making this choice.

While remembering these safety tips, nothing takes the place of being alert to your surroundings and using plain common sense along with watching out for the other guy. So, with this in mind, enjoy your new hobby along with the freedom and responsibility that comes with it. Don't forget, wear your MOTORCYCLE HELMET!!!

Motorcycle Helmet Laws

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has encouraged all states to have and enforce a law requiring all motorcycle riders as well as passengers to wear motorcycle helmets meeting federal guidelines. Motorcycle helmets provide the best protection from head injuries in the event of an accident. The passage of helmet laws was found to be the most effective way of increasing helmet use. The following are facts found in the study done by the NHTSA: In 2006, 4810 motorcyclists died and approximately 88,000 were injured in highway crashes in the United States.

) Per mile traveled in 2006, a motorcyclist is approximately 37 times more likely to die in a crash than someone riding in a passenger car.

There will be more of these interesting facts to follow in later posts. It really all boils down to paying attention to what you are doing and watching what's going on around you and being alert.

How do you feel about the helmets laws??

New Motorcycle Riders

It's very important to understand that choosing a motorcycle to start learning to ride with is as important as what type of safety gear you choose, such as motorcycle helmets, leather jackets, boots, and gloves. First, you should decide on what type of riding you will be doing. Are you looking for a bike to just get you around town or do you need a bike better suited for cruising on the open road. You may talk with a few dealerships and see what they recommend. Also, it would be a good idea to enroll in a motorcycle safety class. Also, choose a good motorcycle helmet, preferably DOT certified for maximum safety.

Thunder Beach

Everyone is getting ready for the Thunder Beach Bike Rally in beautiful Panama City Beach April 30th-May 3rd. It's said to be the most friendly bike rally in the country. The good thing about this one is, if for some reason you miss this one, there is always the one in the Fall. They will be located at some of the most happening venues on the beach. Fortunately I can say I have frequented every one of them over the years. What a perfect place to kick off the 2009 motorcycle riding season. Hopefully we'll see you there.

Get Ready For Americade

It's time to get ready for Americade 2009. If you don't already know, it's located in the Adirondack mountains in upstate New York in the Lake George vacation region. It runs from June 1st to June 6th, 2009. It's approximately 10 miles north of Glens Falls and Queensbury and 50 miles north of the state capitol. If you enjoy large crowds like 50,000 motorcyclists, then the time to be there is about the end of the week. To enjoy it with a few less people, the first part of the week would be the ticket. Either way, that will be a whole bunch of motorcycle helmets.

New Motorcycle Technology

Honda develops new motorcycle safety technology. In its efforts to improve safety for everyone, especially vulnerable road users, Honda's leading motorcycle -to-car communication system was recently demonstrated for the first time in Germany at the CAR 2 CAR Communications Consortium. The VEHICLE to VEHICLE (V2V) System generates warnings to riders and drivers of other vehicles by continuous exchange of positioning data from satellite GPS sources. This is particularly relevant as road users approach intersections, alerting them to other vehicles that are potentially on a collision course, allowing avoidance maneuvers. Research data shows that the majority of accidents involving a motorcycle are caused by perception failures and this system will reduce these failures.

Most accidents involving motorcycles are caused by the simple failure of other motorists to detect the presence of a motorcycle on the road until it is too late, or to correctly assess its distance and speed. V2V communications rapidly relays information in a simple concise manner, which supports motorists' and bikers' recognition processes. Information, including position, direction and vehicle dynamics coordinates, is exchanged between vehicles. Motorcycle riders can safely receive warnings about vehicles near them on a "Head-up" indicator display and can receive information through an in-helmet audio system which doesn't require them to take their eyes off the road. Drivers can view information on the status of cars and motorcycles in their vicinity and receive warnings on, for example, their navigation system display. Honda's V2V System is interoperable and facilitates communication with vehicles from eight other manufacturers.

I think this is certainly technology we can all live with. I can think of several lives that could have been saved possibly, including our eighteen year old son, if this technology had been available a few years ago. Let's hope they continue their research. Along with continuing to wear our motorcycle helmets, maybe we can makes our roads a little bit safer.

Ride For The Children

Event Starts: 4/18/2009 Location: Easley, South Carolina. Suit up and ride in the fight to prevent child abuse! The 13th Annual Ride for the Child is Saturday, April 18, 2009. All bikes are invited to take part in this annual poker run to benefit Prevent Child Abuse in Pickens County. Registration is from 10 - 12 PM at BI-LO on Hwy. 123 in Easley, South Carolina. With The way child abuse is on the rise, I can’t think of a better benefit. Let’s give these kids a chance. You get to enjoy a good ride and meet some new friends. So get on your motorcycle and let’s ride.

Saturday, March 14, 2009Bike WeekAfter viewing the pictures from Daytona Bike Week, it looks like anyone who didn't make it missed a good show. The weekend was full of good looking bikes and good looking women. It sure is a site to see so many motorcycles together in one place, renewing old acquaintances and catching up on old times.Posted by rexh1 at 8:45 PM 0 comments
Posted by Rex Holman at 5:51 PM 0 comments

Sunday, March 8, 2009Trade ShowNow is the time to get ready for the V Twin Trade Show February 6-7-8, 2010 at the following location:EVENT LOCATION:Duke Energy Center(Exhibit Hall A, B & C)525 Elm StreetCincinnati, OH 45202This is without a doubt the most informative motorcycle trade show to date. They have all types of seminars available for marketing and product updates. FYI, this trade show is not open to the general public. You must be a motorcycle retailer or manufacturer.Posted by rexh1 at 5:33 PM 0 comments
Posted by Rex Holman at 5:53 PM 0 comments