Motorcycle Buying Guide - Different Motorcycle Styles

...,The first step to buying your new motorcycle is deciding which type or model style is right for you....

Buying a new motorcycle isn't always easy. There's a lot of information out there to steer car buyers in the right direction, but very little for the average motorcycle buyer.


The first step to buying your new motorcycle is deciding which type or model style is right for you. Most people group bikes into three distinct categories: Street, Dual-Purpose, and Off-Road. But, those who know bikes well understand that there are many more subcategories of motorcycles to contend with on the sales block.

The biggest mistake beginning riders often make when purchasing their first motorcycle is settling for a low-budget street model (usually costing around $3,000 new). The problem is, these bikes have little power and can often sport an uncomfortable ride.

Touring Bikes are considered the Cadillac of motorcycles. Although still considered a street bike, this model is built for comfortable highway riding and long trips. Featuring a large powerful engine, touring bikes are very heavy and can be difficult to maneuver, especially at high speeds. These bikes are great for experienced riders and those who do a lot of highway riding. In-town and city riders should avoid them. Price too is a consideration when buying a touring bike since the prices for one of these models ranges form $10,000 to $20,000.

Cruisers are a more classic looking street bike and are by far the most common style of bike offered by today's dealers. Style and comfort is key to the cruiser, which features large comfortable low-to-the ground seating. Another benefit to the cruiser style: the liberal use of chrome and loud exhaust note, two things many riders enjoy in their bikes. The cost for one of these can range form $5,000 to $20,000.

Sport Bikes are another sub category in the biking industry and are very popular among younger riders. Built for performance, sports bikes don't offer much in the way of comfort or convenience. These lightweight bikes feature the ultimate in aerodynamics. Not good for long trips, sports bikes are meant for just that: sport. Although relatively inexpensive (ranging from $5,000 to $20,000), sports bikes often carry higher insurance premiums do to a perceived risk by insurance carriers

Standard Bikes aren't as popular as they once were, but are still best for beginners since they are well-balanced, well powered and relatively light-weight which makes them easier to handle. Good for both city use as well as highway riding, standard bikes are a wonderful option for regular ordinary bikers who just want reliable transportation.

Motocross Bikes are meant solely for off-road use. They feature small engines and are extremely lightweight (usually weighing a mere 150-300 pounds). Used for recreational riding, motocross bikes are relatively inexpensive usually ranging in price form $1,500 to $6,000.

Dual-Purpose Bikes, on the other hand feature knobby tires and a high center of gravity that works well for off-roading, but still have headlights, turn-signals, and emissions control to make them street-legal.

As you can see, there are a lot of different kinds of bikes for a lot of different kinds of riders. The most important things to consider when choosing a bike of your own is:

-Your size and strength.
-Your experience and ability.
-Your budget.

Once you've narrowed your choices to the style you want most, it's time to hit the showroom floor to see what your favorite manufacturer have.


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Whats In Your Harley Davidson?

,,The Harley Davidson's parts including the batteries and battery boxes, engines, carburetors and air cleaners, exhaust, mufflers, brakes and rotors, rotors, cables ....,,

Harley Davidson has earned popularity and a distinct mark among the bike lovers for it's illustrious design and the exhaust note.

They are renowned more for the tradition of heavy customization that paved way for whole new cult of chopper style motorbikes.

The parts that are used by it's manufacturers for the outer design and the inner body are uniquely constructed and till this date it is difficult to emulate the Harley Davidson parts without compromising on its performance.

It is noteworthy to observe how Harley Davidson parts have been used to create a pseudo Harleys model. It is amusing to see people attempting to create a pseudo model using genuine parts, what a paradox!

It wouldn't be an exaggeration to call Harley Davidson as the archetype among the wide range of existing motorbikes in the market.

Manufacturers of the motorbikes and the zealous bikers have made attempts time and again to emulate this magical bike and have tried to incorporate its features and style into other custom made bikes.

However Harley Davidson continues to be the word class and stand apart bike among the umpteen brands that crop up every year around the world. Among the carbon copy creators you will also find the group of Harley Davidsons' aficionado who prefer to remain loyal to this brand.

One of the characteristics that make this bike the most interesting invention in the history of the motorbikes is that it is a Chopper style bike, hence though creating replicas of this bike is next to impossible thing, it was originally meant to be changing and evolving regularly with pace of time and inventive technology.

The original Harley Davidson was created in such a way that it had the inherent potential flexibility and scope to be revised and redesigned by altering the parts and components that came together to create this historical bike.

However though it's virtually impossible to proclaim to have said all about this legendary bike in a single write up, at least one can arrive at the fact that Harley Davidson continues to be an iconic bike not just in US but all around the world.

The Harley Davidson's parts including the batteries and battery boxes, engines, carburetors and air cleaners, exhaust, mufflers, brakes and rotors, rotors, cables and charges et al are still in demand. The potential buyers of the Harley Davidson's parts are mostly the ones who have bought them in second-sale deal or of course the owners of the original counter-sold Harley Davidson.

It has certainly become much easier now to access the parts of this motor bike still finding a deal that is reasonable it terms of price and offers you genuine parts, can be pretty challenging. As the manufacturers of the Harleys have retained their rights to its creation, the supply of the basic components that make up the bike is stringent.

Of course there are umpteen number of websites that claim to offer you home delivery of Harley Davidson's original parts, both brand new and the refurbished parts, one has to use caution before venturing into such online deals. Harley Davidson is thus by all means a high-maintenance bike, for it's high price and its expensive parts too.

One of the best and practical ways to ensure that you don't end up buying a good-looking yet cheap in quality remake of the Harley Davidson's parts is to enroll yourself into online forums that discuss happenings about the bike.

You have a very good chance of bumping into Harleys enthusiasts and can learn and teach them a thing or to about the bike and its parts.


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Martin Davies has a passion for writing about motorcyles and in particular Harley Davidson parts and often blogs on all topics related with Harley Davidson.
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History of the Shovelhead Engine

,,#.,The Shovelhead had more powerful cylinders and pistons and was meant to provide stronger acceleration..

There is no bike on the road that looks like a Harley-Davidson. Over the manufacturer's century-long history, the look of the Harley has changed and the true enthusiast can tell the year of a bike at a glance. One of the most obvious clues is the distinctive Harley engine.



For twenty years, Harleys got their look from the Shovelhead engine, the engine that many people even today automatically associate with the bike.

The End of the Panhead

In the mid 1960s, Harley Davidson motorcycles used the Panhead engine, so called because of the shape of the rocker covers. As the bikes got heavier they required engines with more power than the Panhead could deliver. In 1966, Harley introduced the next evolution of this engine design.

This new engine, like its predecessor, got its name from the shape of the rocker covers. The covers were shaped like coal shovels and these shovelhead parts inspired the Shovelhead engine's name.

The Shovelhead had more powerful cylinders and pistons and was meant to provide stronger acceleration to meet the demands of bikers of the day.

The engine had its drawbacks. It was more powerful but also heavier so didn't give as much power as had been hoped. That weight also affected the bike's steering and could cause it to weave at top speeds.

Some of these shortcomings were because it had not originally been designed as a motorcycle engine. It was supposed to be used in an outboard motor but engineers discovered that it didn't work well in humid environments, which is rather a significant drawback for a marine engine.

The Shovelhead Era

Although the Shovelhead was not perfect, it still provided a lot of power for the new generation of bikes.

Harley continued to improve the engine throughout its life. In the 1970s there were a number of changes made to the design of Shovelhead parts that resolved many consumer complaints about its performance.

However, the engine never became what bikers wanted it to be. Some of the reasons for this were government regulations that came out of the energy crisis of the 1970s. Harley was limited as to how much power they could give the engine.

One real improvement in Shovelhead parts was the FLH Electra-Glide Package, also known as the Police Option. Although this option made the bike harder for the amateur to maneuver, a skilled rider could get more power and speed.

The End of the Shovelhead

Despite Harley's efforts, this engine struggled to keep pace with the innovations that were sweeping the industry. Shovelhead parts such as oil management systems were considered archaic when compared to other engines and the machine fell out of favor.

Harley stopped producing the engine in 1984, although manufacturers still make custom engines in the same style. The Shovelhead was replaced by the Evolution engine that Harleys still use today.

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Author is a freelance copywriter. For more information on Shovelhead Parts, visit http://www.jirehcycles.com.
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Learning About Exhaust And Your Motorcycle

..Understanding Exhaust And Your Motorcycle,,.,you can get your exhaust system. These include your local motorcycle parts store...

When you get the motorcycle of your dreams, you may think that that's it and you are going to be done with it. That's not always the case. Knowing what you can do for you is just the beginning.

People often times take for granted the role that exhaust plays in their motorcycle parts needs. They may not understand that when your bike has a bad exhaust on it, you will not be able to drive it far. This is not a great thing to have to worry about when you just bought your bike.

There are many places that you can get your exhaust system. These include your local motorcycle parts store as well as other stores in the area. You may be able to get a good discount on your exhaust when you are looking on the Internet or at the places that may sell them for cars.

The other option is to do put it together yourself. You will need to have some kind of experience with motorcycle parts so that you know where it goes of all things. You also want to make sure that you are ready for that kind of work. It really takes a lot of work to put it together and make it work for your bike.

Your bike is going to need a certain kind of pipe to make it work for you and what you are doing. This can mean letting a professional find the motorcycle parts that you are looking for and putting them on your bike in the end. People think that it's easy to do, but it really does take some work to get an exhaust system on your bike. Take the time to figure it out and get it right.

When you decide that you are going to put a new kind of exhaust on your bike, you may not worry about what kind of pipes you want to use and what it will sound like. You really need to pay attention to what you are doing with your bike and how it sounds. A bad job can hurt the way that your bike functions and the way that it sounds too. Take the time to find the right motorcycle part for your bike and your needs so that you are happy with the outcome and the sound of your bike for the life of it.


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Victor Epand is an expert consultant about motorcycle gear, used motorcycle parts, and used car parts. When shopping for motorcycle gear or used parts, we recommend only the best stores for motorcycle exhaust, used motorcycle parts, and used car parts.
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The Ins and Outs of Harley Exhaust Systems

,,.The full Harley exhaust is designed to deal with the output of an engine, dealing with environmental, aesthetic, ....

Most of us like to turn heads with our bikes and the exhaust is a big part of that. A cool looking exhaust system can really enhance the appearance of your motorcycle. Plus the distinctive throaty roar of a Harley-Davidson engine comes from the exhaust.


But there is more to Harley exhaust systems than gleaming chrome and bestial growls. Understanding the function of your exhaust lets you choose the best one for your bike.

Dealing with Emissions

The full Harley exhaust is designed to deal with the output of an engine, dealing with environmental, aesthetic, and legal issues.

The converter is designed to change harmful chemicals in the emissions into something less damaging to the environment. It uses a catalyst to convert dangerous gasses, including carbon monoxide and unburned fuel into carbon dioxide, water vapor, and other innocuous compounds. Reducing harmful emissions is not only environmentally friendly - it is also required by the EPA.

The muffler control sound and sparks. Although many Harley owners like the roar of their engine, many communities have noise ordinances that limit how loud your bike can be. Mufflers don't necessarily just suppress sound. They can also be used to control sound to get the noise you want from your bike.

Performance Enhancement

Your Harley exhaust system has a strong effect on engine performance and power. A clogged or poorly designed system restricts the flow of exhaust and reduces engine efficiency. Consider a path from the gas tank through the engine to the exhaust. If any part of that path is restricted, the whole system slows down and that means less fuel to your engine and less power.

Most people understand that a clog in the fuel line reduces power but may not realize that a clogged exhaust can do the same. Clogs aren't the only problem. An inefficient Harley exhaust restricts the flow from the engine and that creates a backup which cuts performance. Well designed systems with smooth curves rather than sharp corners allow the exhaust to vent more easily and the engine to run better.

High vs. Low Mounting

Where you put your exhaust, a high vs. a low position, will generally be determined by the bike's use. High-mounted Harley exhausts are used for bikes that will be used on trails and off-road. These bikes get a lot of dirt and water coming their way and the pipes are mounted high to keep these contaminants from getting into the exhaust and clogging it.

The problem with high-mounted exhausts is that they aren't very passenger friendly. Street bikes are more likely to carry passengers and don't need the protection of high mounts. These motorcycles are more likely to opt for low-mounted exhaust systems.

Choosing the right exhaust system is key to both the look and performance of your bike so consider all of your needs before making your choice.


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Author is a freelance writer. For more information on a Harley exhaust please visit http://www.jirehcycles.com
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Motorcycle Tire Care for Your Safety

**,Tread wear of your tires is very important. Without enough tread you are asking for a accident.,,*

Your motorcycle tires will last longer if you do weekly or monthly checks of your tires. You need to ensure that the walls of the tires are not cracked or have cuts in them.

One important check is the air pressure of your tire. Always maintain the proper pressure and you will have a safer ride. Also, the motorcycle will ride better and perform as it should. Never let the air pressure get so low that you have a hard time controlling the bike.

Also, when the tire has low air pressure it can cause the tire to separate and cause blowouts. The cause of the blowout is due to the tire heating up because of not maintaining proper air pressure.

Tread wear of your tires is very important. Without enough tread you are asking for a accident. Most manufactures recommend that a tread depth of 32 seconds of an inch is low enough. When they are at this depth its time to replace the tire.

I know people ride in their car with bald tires but its not a good practice with a motorcycle. You only have two tires and you need them both to prevent an accident. Play it safe and make sure you have the correct tread depth.

Your rims play a important part in helping your tires last longer and in shape. If you have spoke rims its a must to ensure that the spokes are tighten correctly. I would recommend a professional tighten them because they have the right equipment and know how. You may have tighten the spokes on your bicycle but there's more at stake when you have a motorcycle.

If you have solid rims they can become dent or out of line which will cause your tire to wear faster and cause them to wobble. This will make it very unsafe to drive. Replace them immediately; never ride a motorcycle with bent rims.

Don't mix your tire because this can cause problems. When you replace your tires they should both be the same size, rating, and type. The performance of your motorcycle will be better with tires that are the same. Safer also.

When you purchase your tires you need to decide what kind of riding you will be doing. Motorcycle tires are designed for the type of riding the individual will do. Maybe you ride on dirt roads alot. In that case you would want a tire with softer rubber. To ride the open road you need a firmer tire for better traction and control. So be sure and purchase the right tire for the right pavement.

Deciding and mainting your motorcycle tires is a very important decision. Don't take it lightly and you will have many safe miles.


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Your safety and others will be enhanced if you provide proper tire care to your motorcycle tires. Choose the correct one at Best Mororcycle Tire Store
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The Longest Motorcycle Jump on Record

What do the numbers 102.53, 66, and 346 have in common? Here's a hint - motorcycle jump record. March 29th, 2008 --- Calder Park in Melbourne, Australia was the setting, complete with a rainy atmosphere, when Robbie Madison hopped on his modified Honda CR500 motorcycle and set the world's mark for the longest motorcycle jump on record. It took him a distance of 500 meters before he hit the ramp at 102.53 mph and then went airborne to the tune of 66 feet in elevation.

When he touched down on the dirt landing ramp, he had traveled 346 feet, eclipsing the his own world's record of 322 feet that he set at the Rio Hotel in Las Vegas on New Year's just as the clock struck midnight. A crowd of 28,000+ braved the drizzle and early fall temperatures (they were in the Southern Hemisphere so the seasons are the opposite) and watched their hometown hero write another chapter in the motorcycle jump record books.

Robbie's first attempt nearly ended in disaster when he just barely missed slamming into the face of the dirt landing ramp. But undaunted by the near mishap, he tried once again to set the world's mark and succeeded, much to the delight of the rain soaked fans. Fortunately, they found the experience well worth the inconvenience of the inclement weather that they had encountered in the process.

Robbie Madison is a name that has become a household word when people discuss the longest motorcycle jump on record. And he is no stranger to setting and breaking his on world records either. As was mentioned earlier, this world record broke the prior record (that he had set). Oddly enough, one year earlier to the date (New Year's 2007), the record that he set this past New Year's broke that record --- by 45 feet. The former mark of 277 feet was also set at the Rio Hotel.

Of course, when you talk about the longest motorcycle jump on record, you cannot omit the name of the man who put the sport on the map, namely Evel Knieval. This man was the daredevil's daredevil; the epitome of a combination of courage and a lack of fear, Sadly, we lost him on November 30th, 2007 when he lost his fight with diabetes and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, both of which he had been suffering with for years.

Knieval's long-time friend, Billy Rundle, was quoted as saying that Knieval had been suffering for many years and that everyone knew that he would eventually succumb to the conditions. But as Rundle was quoted in an interview shortly after his friend's death, "It's been coming for years, but you just don't expect it. Superman just doesn't die, right?" For many admirers, they had lost their idol and their hero.

But the bottom line is that even though it is considered a sport and enjoyed by millions of fans worldwide, there are still those individuals who feel that is nothing more than a group of foolhardy individuals that have no respect for life or limb. Personally, they have the right to their own opinions, but I think they are off base in their mindset about the issue. And obviously, they don't realize that it takes courage and skill to compete in that particular arena.


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The Most Common Scenarios Involving Motorcycle Crashes

When riding a motorcycle the fear of motorcycle crashes is perhaps the greatest fear among all riders. Injuries resulting from motorcycle crashes can be life altering or lead to death. There are many precautionary measures one can take to avoid being involved in any motorcycle crashes, but accidents can still happen. There are several scenarios that are most likely to cause a motorcycle crashes and there are a number of reasons why these situations lead to accidents.

6. The least common cause of motorcycle crashes is cars or vehicles pulling in to traffic from the side of the road. These types of motorcycle crashes occur when a car or vehicle pulled over to the side of a roadway attempts to merge into traffic and side swipes a person traveling on a motorcycle. If the motorcyclist isn't sideswiped they often swerve in reaction to the vehicle moving towards them which leads them to lose control or hit another car.

5. When car doors open quickly and unexpectedly it can lead to motorcycle crashes. This type of accident occurs when the driver or passenger of a vehicle flings the door to the vehicle open without looking and the approaching motorcyclist is either forced to swerve or is clothes lined by the door.

4. Road debris is the cause of many motorcycle crashes. These types of motorcycle crashes occur when a motorcyclist loses control of their bike because they either are forced to swerve to avoid something, they slip on grease or ice or they hit a patch of uneven pavement, a pothole or a loose piece of concrete.

3. Vehicles that are attempting to make a sudden and unexpected U-turn can also be the cause of some motorcycle crashes. This happens when either the motorcyclist isn't expecting the U-turn and does not have an adequate amount of time to react or the person driving the vehicle does not see the motorcyclist and turns in to them.

2. Another common cause of many motorcycle crashes are improper rear end maneuvers. This can occur in a variety of ways. The motorcycle driver may not be adhering to the proper following distance and when the driver of the vehicle ahead of them brakes suddenly the motorcycle driver hits them. This can also occur when the driver of a vehicle does not see the motorcyclist behind them and they either back up or allow the car to roll back while sitting in traffic.

1. The most common scenario that is seen in most motorcycle crashes is when the driver of a vehicle does not see a motorcyclist and turns directly into them. In these situations the driver of the motorcycle is either directly hit by the oncoming vehicle or they see the oncoming vehicle and they swerve to avoid it. When a motorcyclist is forced to swerve they typically hit something or lose control of their bike. These motorcycle crashes are not just the most common type of crash, they are also the most avoidable.


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Click here to learn more about motorcycle crashes at The MotorcyclePedia.
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A Sportster, A Bonneville and An Indian Chief

****,.still loved Indian motorcycle was the first American bike to attract an audience.,,The Harley-Davidson Company may have lagged behind the Indian at first but soon caught,,**

The history of the motorcycle didn't begin in America, but its most loved motorcycle, the Harley-Davidson did. The now defunct but still loved Indian motorcycle was the first American bike to attract an audience. The prototype of the Indian was created in 1901, streamlined in 1902 and by the year 1903, the co-founder of the company, Oscar Hedstrom set the world's record for speed, hitting the outrageously high speed of 56mph. He and George Hendee were the top "chiefs" at the company.

By the year 1904, the Indian single with an engine built in Aurora, Illinois and body built in Springfield, Massachusetts at the "wigwam", the company's name for the headquarters, developed it's trademark color of deep red. It sold over 500 bikes that year, a huge number considering that the Harley Davidson Company sold only three. By the year 1913, the motorcycle had taken Americans by storm and the number of sales grew to over 32,000. The Indian bike broke many racing records and produced the famous rider, Erwin "Cannonball" Baker who set and broke many long-distance records. Perhaps his most famous run was in 1914 when he rode his Indian across the country from the West coast to the east coast in the record time of 11 days, 12 hours and 10 minutes. A New York newspaper made the comparison between him and the Cannonball Express. He developed his moniker "Cannonball" and Indian motorcycles developed a greater reputation.

During the same period, the Harley-Davidson Company was off to a rocky start. By 1907 when compared to the success of the Indian. In that year, Indian had a V-twin engine while Harley-Davidson still used the singles with five horsepower or less even in 1910 models.

When both Hedstrom and Hendee passed, their heirs to the power seat almost ran the company dry. Many were involved in other business and diverted money into those, only to almost bankrupt Indian when the market was at its best, during the 20's. Two stockholders that were highly invested decided to merge their car manufacturing company and focus on motorcycles while they ceased making cars, partly to salvage their investment of $300,000 but mostly because they loved motorcycles. They were Francis and E. Paul DuPont, from one of the wealthiest families in America.

The DuPont brothers eliminated all non-motorcycle companies and brought in two extraordinary men to work for them. These men were Loren Hosley and Briggs Weaver. Hosley, the production manager, helped bring the company back to an efficiently run company and bring record-breaking profit. Weaver was a designer and created the classic look for the Indian. The streamlined and timeless style that remains loved today is over 60 years old.

The Harley-Davidson Company had humble beginnings. In 1901, 21-year-old Bill Harley drew plans for a motorized bike. He convinced his lifelong friend, Arthur Davidson to help him build it. So, in a 10X15 foot shack they scratched the name Harley-Davidson Company above the door and began working on the motorcycle. The motorcycle of the day was the Indian and they had a long road to catch up with its success.

The Harley-Davidson Company may have lagged behind the Indian at first but soon caught up and eventually passed the company in popularity. The logo used today, the bar and shield was an addition in 1910 and remains the same. The company went through many trials and tribulations, but found the military to be its primary customer one reason may have been the addition of the sidecar in 1914. This made the motorcycle perfect as a military transport.

The Harley-Davidson Company also grew with fever during the First World War when the military used motorcycles extensively. By the year 1918, over half the motorcycles produced by Harley-Davidson were in the war effort. An estimated 20,000 motorcycles, mostly Harleys served their country in WWI. The first American in Germany after the signing of the Armistice, rode in on a Harley.

In the 1920's, many innovations came to the bike, like the teardrop gas tank, a symbol of the Harley quality. The motorcycle found use as police departments and postal workers used them in their daily tasks. During the Great Depression, only Harley-Davidson and the Indian Motorcycle managed to survive. Harley went to war again in 1941 when WWII broke out.

Times were not always easy for the Harley-Davidson, but their innovations and commitment to excellence kept them alive. Hydra-Glide models came with new hydraulic brakes in 1949. During the 1950's, over forty percent of the motorcycles were the British bike, the Triumph, Bonneville. Harley-Davidson knew they had to come up with a high quality bike with style and character to match and recapture the market. The Harley Sportster was born to do just that. In that same era, the Indian Motorcycle closed its doors, leaving Harley-Davidson as the sole company in America.

Innovations to maintain the market share abounded. Hollywood both helped make and break the popularity of the motorcycle. Most movies portrayed the riders as tough, rude and violent people. This of course, slowed the purchase of bikes by law loving citizens. The movie' "Easy Rider", however proved the savior of the motorcycle market in America. Baby boomers across the country loved the concept of the freedom found on the back of a Harley. Later those same boomers would create the ever growing market of well to do, professionals that ride and a resurgence in the interest in motorcycles.

Harley almost closed its doors but managed to reorganize and make significant changes in their financing, marketing, manufacturing and innovations. They kept the quality that was always the signature of the Harley. Unlike the Indian Company that slapped its name on cheap imported models after the company was sold to Ralph B Rodgers in 1945, the Harley Davidson Company rejuvenated the company through excellence.

Products have grown yearly around the resurgence of interest in Motorcycles. Some of them as silly as "Old Fart Spray" for aching joints of senior rider and other more expensive items, like pop up trailers for those long bike trips. There are new motorcycle products springing up every day. One of the newest American made product is one of the oldest, for those that loved the Indian, on July 20 a newly formed Indian Motorcycle Company announced its plans to start production of the "Chief" in Kings Mountain, North Carolina. It also appears that Triumph and Norton are on the comeback trail but that's another story.


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5 Things You Need To Know When Buying A Used Harley Davidson

If you are a motorcycle enthusiast of any kind you have probably thought about buying a Harley Davidson at some point in time. The sound, the power, the ride all seem alluring to those of us who like it on two wheels. One option when purchasing a Harley is to go with a used bike. Most Harley owners maintain their bikes better than their cars so buying into the used market is a pretty safe bet unlike other makes or brands. Harley owners have a lot of pride in their bikes.

So when you go to buy a used motorcycle and in this case a Harley here are the top things you need to consider to make it a good sale and a good ride for you.

1. One of the biggest advantages of buying a used Harley is that more than likely it will already be somewhat customized. The basic truth is that most stock bikes off the factory are not that great looking. So most Harley owners right away go and add lots of chrome, maybe a new seat, a backrest and sometimes a windshield or saddlebags.

2. Now if you bought a new bike and then went and purchased all of these nice and fancy accessories it might run you ton of bucks. Not to mention you have to have them installed or spend lots of time doing it yourself. Then you will find that many a used bike has had a custom paint job done to it which can drive the price up as well.

3. A key factor in deciding to go used is that the average Harley Davidson maintains its value well, but if you buy a brand-new bike you will find it depreciates quite a bit the first year. This is just like any new car you might buy. So now we have three good reasons why buying a used bike are a good idea for you. How about some more?

4. When checking out a used Harley over at the seller's house or place of business you will want to give it a close look over to make sure it has not been in an accident or dropped. Some of the key things to look for when inspecting the bike are new brake or clutch grips, mirrors or foot pegs. This could be a warning sign that the bike has been dropped, since these are the first to get damaged. Man have I had that happen to me. Back in the days of my first bikes this was all too common. Now with big bikes I am not dropping them if I can help it at all.

5. Ask the seller in some detail why he wants to sell the bike. It never hurts to have a conversation to determine just what the motivation is for the seller. With the way the economy is today, a lot of people are selling for financial reasons. Harley owners are dedicated, but if it comes down to the House or the bike, in most cases the house payment usually wins. You can help a fellow Harley owner out by buying his bike and you will also be getting a great deal below market value. Make it a conversation and not an inquisition. Get into their love for the bike and find out if it is hardship, upgrading or what that is motivating them to sell. By being interested in their story you might even turn things in your favor when it comes time to nail down a price.

In these days of vast shopping and research options on the internet, shopping for a used Harley online is the easiest way to find a good deal. Online auctions are a good source. Be sure and read the description carefully and don't hesitate to ask for more pictures from the seller. If you need close-ups of anything be sure and say so. Most sellers are happy to send you more photographs. If you purchased your used Harley online then you will need to arrange for shipping at a reasonable price. Some of the online motor vehicle auction sites like eBay will give you a quote before you make your purchase.

It will always pay to do your research no matter whether you are looking for your bike online or across town. Be thorough, ask questions, take a test ride if you can and most of all, be diligent and honest in your transaction with the seller. Then once you get that used Harley Davidson home you can make it your pride and joy. And don't forget the insurance and helmet if you live in a helmet law state.

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Do you love Harley Davidson motorcycles? Then come on over and see them in video action. Share your love of Harleys and see our videos. Hot Harley Videos

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