“Keep The Rubber Side Down”

From Triumph

Triumph Upgrades TwinsWith Electronic Fuel InjectionNEWNAN, Georgia – September 8, 2008:  Triumph announced that all new 2009 parallel twin engine platforms will include electronic fuel injection (EFI).  This new technology affects all the Modern Classics: Bonneville, Bonneville T100, Scrambler, and Thruxton. The America and Speedmaster, in the Cruiser range, also receive this upgrade.  Triumph has been able to preserve the classic look of the engine while the technologically advanced internal engine design has been modified to accommodate the EFI update. The fuel injectors have been skillfully hidden by throttle bodies designed to look like carburetors. The fuel injected engine produces a perfect balance of efficiency and performance while maintaining its exceptional fuel economy. The 2009 parallel twin engine maintains its classic look with polished fins and remains true to its heritage. The changeover from carburetors to electronic fuel injection is in direct response to the European emissions legislation.  In 2009 all the Triumph parallel twin powered models in North America receive this update which exceeds Euro 3 as well as EPA and CARB emissions standards. The precise metering of fuel delivers a more environmentally friendly motorcycle.

I think I would like to take advantage of one of the many AMA riding events here’s the schedule 2009 AMA Tour Schedule Released

Although crowd attendance was down slightly I am certain the attendees didn’t care! Sturgis Rally Stats For 2008

Tags: , AMA, Sturgis, Triumph

Recently the MSF was asked…  “When riding two up, who should be responsible for the hand signals, the operator or the co-rider?”

MSF response… 

 ”Only the operator should make the hand signals.”  “It is the operator’s responsibility!” 

Reasons

1.   “A passenger cannot always anticipate what the operator will do that would require a hand signal.”
2.   “If the operator had to tell  the passenger to to give a particular signal, valuable time could be lost or the operator could lose attention to riding.”

Check out more signals here!

Tags: AMA, hand signals, MSF

The 1150 GS was loaded to the gills!  Tent, bedroll, and travel bags, all tightly tethered, evidence this owner planned to be on the road awhile.

I quickly snatched the camera from my tank bag, and began taking pictures of this dusty Beemer, looking perfectly at home in it’s role as a beast of burden.

While taking the pics, I couldn’t help but wonder where this bike and owner hand been, and where they were headed.  What scenic views have they enjoyed? How many shooting stars have they witnessed while sleeping out under the starry skies?  What interesting characters they have met over coffee in some out of the way diner?

These thoughts were interrupted as the owner returned to his motorcycle.  I introduced myself, and we chatted for a brief time.  He was a tall man in his early 50’s, sporting a grayish beard, and a gentle disposition.  Seems he is riding from New Hampshire, to California, to visit friends.  He has given himself three weeks to complete the trek and was welcoming of our conversation.  Soon we said “good bye”, and we headed separate ways.  He, anticipating the miles, and adventures currently ahead of him, me, anticipating my next time!

If a road trip is in your future, check out these 33 Secrets for Smart Touring from the American Motorcyclist magazine.

Tags: , AMA, Touring tips

One of the things I most enjoyed about elementary school, were the field trips!  With sack lunches in hand, we would climb on the school bus, slowly heading off to visit exciting place such as COSI, The Ohio Historical Village, Slate Run Farm, and several others favorites.  On Saturday, I experienced that same childhood feeling all over again as my wife and I, mounted the R1100, for a tour of the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum.

Although the museum is only one and a half hours away from my home, I had never been there, so I was anticipating touring one of the current exhibits entitled, “MotoStars: Celebrities+Motorcycles”.   This exhibit displays motorcycles of the rich and famous such as…  Neil Peart, legendary drummer for the rock band Rush, Steve McQueen, Keith Urban, Peter Fonda, and the jackass, Tom Cruise.

A lovely ride under sunny skies, soon brought us to the well manicured, and park like setting of the museum.  I was very impressed with the facilities and the staff.  Here’s a few photos of the exhibit.

Peter Fonda (Captain America) 

Keith Urban (2007 Vengeance 777)

Steve MCQueen (1929 Scott Super Squirrel)

We had an enjoyable visit  and if you ever get a chance to stop by the Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum, I think you will truly be delighted!

Tags: , AMA, Captain America, Keith Urban, Motorcycle Hall of Fame Museum

1.  Rider magazine reports a guy rode his motorcycle across the United States without stopping.

2.  “Keep The Rubberside Down” rides to AMA Vintage Days, July 26th!

3.  Long Way Down, Big Screen Version from BMW Motorrad.

4.  Robbie Knievel Breaks record with a jump over 25 cars.

Tags: , , AMA, Keep The Rubber Side Down, Rider Magazine, Robbie Knievel