Tag Archives: Motorbike advice

DIY advice for self-isolating riders

If you’ve responsibly chosen to park your bike during the pandemic, then you may be considering using the time to do some valuable DIY maintenance.

We love a bit of DIY bike maintenance, but there are a few pitfalls that can trap the unwary home mechanic, warns RACQ technical officer and self-confessed mechanical “trainspotter” Steve Spalding.

“I like to know where, how, why things work on my bikes, how the models differ and spec changes, oil specs, servicing schedules, workshop tools to do DIY maintenance etc,” says Steve.

Steve Spalding RACQ voidSteve Spalding RACQ

However, he says there can sometimes be variances between recommended replacement parts and what actually fits your bike.

He recalls replacing his chain and sprockets on his Bandit in a working bee with some friends: “I probably drove them nuts when I spent around 30 minutes using Vernier callipers to measure the right amount of ‘crush’ on the joining link so as to not damage the ‘O’ ring seals.”

“The sprocket sizes quoted by the bike shop for my bike were wrong. They didn’t believe me at first.”

He says he has also found the online and in-store manuals listed different oil filter fitments. He now uses a different model and brand from what is recommended in the manual.

“You’ll find there is a necessary close working relationship between parts people and mechanics. It comes down to the part number versus the application,” he says.

“The spare parts staff rely on manuals and part numbers to supply a part. However, the mechanic determines if the part will actually fit correctly. And the buck stops with the mechanic if they get it wrong.

“Therein sometimes lies the tension as both are experienced at what they do.” 

Identifying the correct part

Steve says motorcycle manufacturers change or modify parts or specifications during model runs. That can make it difficult to identify the correct part.

He advises a VIN number is necessary with original parts. 

“I think most mechanics rightfully rely on, and respect, parts people for getting them the right parts when needed,” he says.mechanic tools maintenance servicing lemon laws diy

“So the message to DIYers is do take advice from the parts suppliers. However, it’s always good practice to make careful observations when removing old parts or preparing to do a job. That will reduce the risk of getting the wrong part.

“And, most importantly, be absolutely satisfied the supplied part is correct before attempting to force-fit. 

“The other advice is use quality parts and oils, and only do repairs and servicing you are competent at doing.

“Mechanics have years of experience, access to manufacturer training, workshop special tools and technical data that most home DIYers don’t have.

“With experience, it’s better to spend more time researching and learning before taking on a new repair task. Then you will spend less time becoming frustrated with a job that goes from difficult to disastrous.” 

Steve says there is a lot of helpful advice online, but he also warns about owner forums and YouTube “how-to” videos.

Online DIY tips:

  • Be careful in where you source motoring advice. It is usually well-intended but not necessarily accurate;
  • Manufacturers, dealerships and local repairers are credible sources of advice, forums and social media less so;
  • Be extra careful about seeking or accepting  ‘legal advice’ such as for traffic infringements, crashes etc from forums and social media;
  • Just because a thought keeps appearing on blogs or social media, doesn’t mean it accurate. It could be that it’s just being repeated from one incorrect source; and
  • If you take advice from unreliable sources and causes damage to your bike or makes things worse, there’s not much chance of recourse. You wear the cost of incorrect advice.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

How to hibernate your bike during pandemic

If you haven’t already decided to self isolate, you may soon be forced off the road by government bans, so you should think about how to hibernate your bike for the months ahead.

Various sources are telling us the lockdown measures will be in place for anything up to six months!

In that time, your bike can deteriorate just sitting in the garage.

The tyres can go flat and out of shape, the fuel can spoil in the tank and the battery will run flat.

Riders in climates where they have to hibernate their bike during the winter will already know the drill.

But for the rest of us, it’s all new territory.

So, we have put together this guide to help you hibernate your bike safely.

At the end of the lockdown, click here to find out how to get your bike ready for riding again.

How to hibernate your bike

SERVICE

Even if you are a few thousand kilometres short of the next service, it is advisable to have your bike serviced before laying it up. Some bikes require an annual service, even if you haven’t done the required kilometres, and that service may fall due during the lockdown. As a minimum, you should think about changing the oil and filters. The Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries advises that automotive brands and networks will remain open to provide sales and service support to customers.  In fact, TeamMoto stores and MCA stores at Penrith, Caringbah and Campbelltown are actually offering free pick-up and delivery when you get your bike serviced so you don’t even have to leave home isolation. (Restrictions on distance apply.)

BATTERY

If you don’t have one of the new-age lithium or anti-gravity batteries, you should put your motorcycle battery on a trickle charger. Others prefer to take the battery out and jump-start it later on. If you do, you will then need to ride the bike for at least half an hour on constant throttle to re-charge the battery.

FUEL

Don’t drain the fuel out. If moisture gets into a metal tank, it can cause corrosion. Instead, leave some fuel in the tank, but add fuel additives (often called preservatives or conditioner) such as Motorex’s Fuel Stabiliser. It can save you the heartache of the fuel degrading and blocking up the injectors or carburettor jets.

TYRES

Leaving your bike sitting in the one spot for several months can ruin your tyres. As they gradually lose pressure, the sidewalls distort where they touch the garage floor. If you leave them that way, it can cause permanent damage. First thing to do is pump your tyres up high and check them every few weeks. However, it is better of you put the bike on a centre stand or a paddock stand which will take most or all of the pressure off the tyres. We like the Dynamoto stand. If not, move it around every few weeks.

Dynamoto Motorcycle StandDynamoto motorcycle stands

RUST NEVER SLEEPS

Had to use that heading, courtesy of Neil Young! Corrosion can get into your bike over the damp winter months unless you keep it dry. Rather than using a bike rain cover, try an old sheet or blanket which is more likely to soak up moisture. Before covering your bike, give the metal parts a liberal spray with a corrosion inhibitor such as Scottoiler’s FS365 or WD40 which repels water. Try to store your bike in a warm and dry spot such as next to a hot water system.

RIDING GEAR

Don’t forget about your riding gear as well. Never put your riding gear away dirty. Give it a good clean and store it in a dry cupboard to prevent mould. Put your helmet in its helmet bag, perhaps with some naphthalene to repel moisture. Store your boots with some newspaper inside to soak up any moisture and prevent them collapsing and going out of shape.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

How to Safely Transport Motorcycle During a Move

(Contributed post)

If you’re preparing for a long-distance move, something that you’ll want to consider is how you’re going to transport your motorcycle. A long-distance move is typically any move that is outside a 50 to 100-mile (80-160km) radius.

While any move is challenging, long-distance moves come with the additional challenge of not being able to easily get back and forth between your old home and your new home. This means you have to pack everything at once since you’re not likely to be able to go back and get it in a reasonable time.

One of the items you’ll need to think about is your motorcycle.

In a perfect world, you would be able to ride your bike to your new home! But, very likely, you’re going to find yourself in a situation where you either need to drive your car or take a plane.

So, what exactly are you supposed to do with your motorcycle? Is selling your only option available? The good news is that it is actually fairly easy to move a motorcycle!

Here are some possible solutions that will help you safely transport your bike.

Moving in a truck

If you have a large pickup truck with a flatbed, it is possible to safely secure your motorcycle on it. To do this, all you need to do is get the motorcycle onto the truck and secure it to the truck using tie-down straps. Make sure you use tie-down straps that are specifically meant for motorcycles. These straps can be purchased online or from your local motorcycle retailer.

If you’re traveling a long distance, you’ll also want to cover your motorcycle up with some sort of tarp. This can help prevent debris, such as pebbles or rock, from hitting and damaging your motorcycle.

If you’re planning on renting a pickup truck to move your motorcycle, make sure that the moving company will allow you to put a motorcycle on the truck. It is also important to note whether the truck can handle the weight of the bike.

Moving in a trailer

Another way to transport your bike is by renting some sort of enclosed trailer or some sort of utility trailer. Trailers are some of the safest ways to transport motorcycles long distances. This is because the trailer can be attached to your moving truck or to another vehicle. They also sit lower to the ground than flatbed trucks, which makes getting the motorcycle onto the trailer easier. 

No matter if you’re using an enclosed trailer or a utility trailer, you’ll want to use motorcycle tie-down straps to secure the bike to the trailer. If using a utility trailer, you should consider covering your motorcycle with a protective tarp.

Some moving companies may even have specific trailers that are meant just to transport motorcycles. If you’re working with a company for your move, ask them for their recommendations. You’re not the only one who has ever had to transport a motorcycle!

Using a transport serviceTransport puncture flat tyre GT10009

Another safe way to transport your motorcycle during a move is to hire a transport service. Some companies specialize in moving motorcycles.

Most companies will help you figure out a way to safely ship your motorcycle to your new home. Other companies may use trailers to tow your motorcycle. Another benefit of using a transport service is that most of them offer some sort of insurance. If your bike is damaged in the move, they’ll cover the costs.

These transport services are specially trained to transport motorcycles safely. Of course, you’ll still want to do your research before committing to one. Make sure to check several websites, get quotes, read reviews, and talk to representatives.

While using a transport service can be expensive, this is one of the best ways to transport your bike.

Move it on a jet ski trailer

If you’re in a pinch, you can also use jet ski trailers to transport motorcycles. Most jet ski trailers don’t have a supportive floor, so you’ll need to get creative and build a wooden floor for your motorcycle to rest on. This will allow you to strap your motorcycle down in a similar way that you would if using a traditional trailer.

You’ll also want to make sure the trailer itself can handle the weight of the bike. If the jet ski trailer is too lightweight, the weight of your bike could cause the trailer to bounce around too much.

You should really only consider a jet ski trailer as the last resource. However, if you really love jet skiing, you’ll at least be able to use it again in the future. Make sure to check out this ultimate jet ski accessory guide to learn about other jet ski accessories.

Getting bike on to truck or trailer

If you do decide to move forward with using a truck or trailer, you’re going to have to figure out a way to safely move the bike onto the bed.

Most trailers will already have some sort of ramp. Some ramps will allow you to wheel your motorcycle onto the trailer, while other ramps might lift the bike onto the bed.

Trucks are a little more challenging. You’ll want to make your own ramp out of wood to get the motorcycle onto the bed. Take your time when moving a motorcycle onto a truck. Of course, once you have the motorcycle on the truck or trailer, you’ll want to use the tie-down straps to safely secure the bike before moving the vehicle.

Final thoughts

If you’re planning a long-distance move, now is the time to start considering how you’re going to move your motorcycle.

If you feel comfortable transporting your motorcycle by yourself, consider whether or not your truck can handle the weight or if you would need to buy/rent a trailer.

If you’re not comfortable with transporting the motorcycle by yourself, look into a professional transport service. They will handle the logistics for you so that you can remain focused on other aspects of the move.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

What motorcycle suits women best?

I’ve read several articles that advise what motorcycle suits women best, but they all reach different conclusions.

Really, the best bike for a woman is … every bike!

Women come in different shapes and sizes with different interests in racing, adventuring, off-roading, commuting, cruising, etc.

So why should women be restricted to one type or model of bike? 

Several motorcycle brands have tried to make bikes suit female riders, which is an admirable sentiment.

Harley-Davidson has been addressing perceived issues such as seat height, bar grip diameter and weight.

And BMW Motorrad embarrassingly built the lightweight, low-powered, low-seat F 650 Scarver which came in “feminine” colours such as “gold orange” and “azure blue”.

BMW Scarver suits women?BMW Scarver in azure blue

It also had a “tank” compartment where women could put their purse!

It was a dismal failure and was deleted from the line-up.

Suits yourself

Seat height is one issue that women actually bring up themselves. But then, so do many men.

Having a low seat height is not necessarily a women-only issue.

In fact, the two biggest motorcycle markets in the world, China and India, have very short average heights.

China is 1694mm (5′ 6.7″) for males and 1586mm (5′ 2.5″) for females, while Indians are 1653mm (5′ 5″) for males and 1653mm (5′ 5″) for females.

It’s not as big an issue in Australia where the average height of an adult male is 1784mm (5’10.2″) and women are 1639mm (5’4.5″). American men are slight shorter (1782mms) and women are slightly taller (1641mm (5′ 4.6″).

Besides, there are several methods of riding a tall motorcycle safely and for picking up a heavy motorcycle if you happen to drop it.

What annoys women more is not necessarily a seat height that suits their stature, but the fact that low-seat options often cost extra.

Why?

Shouldn’t they be the choice of the rider at purchase and therefore part of the bike price?

It’s this sort of attitude, plus the very fact that manufacturers think women need special bikes that is probably preventing them from accessing potentially 50% of the market.

And with only 12% of Aussie riders being female and about 20% in the USA, they are missing out on a huge potential growth area.

For women, as for men, we recommend simply picking a bike that suits you and sets your heart racing!

Happy International Women’s Day next Sunday (8 March 2020) to all our female riders.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

EzySt fuel app offers riders discounts

A new free app called EzySt not only shows you where the cheapest fuel is near you, but also offers special discounts and can find the cheapest fuel on your planned ride route.

Unlike existing fuel price apps and schemes, it is not based on crowd-sourced information, but real-time data from local fuel retailers and Government reporting schemes.

The app is free and will work to show you cheap fuel near you and on your planned ride if you load your route into the map.

EzySt has completed a successful trial in Western Australia and is now available in Queensland and NSW with other states and territories to follow.

Sign up for EzySt dealsEzySt fuel saver app

To access special fuel and other servo deals, you have to sign up.

However, if you value your privacy, you can still use all the other attributes of the app without signing up, such as route selection and choosing your preferred fuel type by RON value.

I entered my email details several days ago and have yet to receive any discount deals.

If you do get a deal, you don’t have to take it straight away, but can save it.

You can also sign out at any time and choose to have the app only work when being used or working in the background all the time, but that will reduce your phone’s battery.

Many riders don’t care about the price of fuel, only the quality for their pride and joy.EzySt fuel saver app

Savings

However, if you are interested in exploiting the fuel economy benefits of a motorcycle, this app could save you precious dollars.

EzySt app has been several years in the making and is the brainchild of Sydney-based company The Pricing Project who developed other fuel industry software such as PriceScape and PriceSync.

It is led by former Caltex executives Mick Jarvie and Ben Everitt, and technologist Damian Funnell.

However, it is not limited to Caltex.

Participating retailers include the EG Group (Caltex / Woolworths), independents Puma Energy, Pacific Petroleum, New Sunrise, and several dealers operating under nationally recognised brands.

EzySt is now available through the App Store and Google Play, and can be followed on Facebook at @EzySt.

Fuel economyFuel economy service station helmet pulp ulp premium

Click here if you would like to make more savings by increasing your bike’s fuel economy.

Be aware that using a higher RON value than the manufacturer’s recommendation may not have any fuel-saving benefits.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

How to preserve your motorcycle’s paint

(Contributed post)

Some simple maintenance, which can be easily incorporated into the routine of a motorcycle owner, will help – a lot – to prevent damage and to maintain the paint of your two-wheeled vehicle. It is important to keep the paint clean to avoid damage when resold – even minor damage to the frame can devalue any vehicle or result in a lot of workshop costs.

Avoiding scratches, wear and tear on paint is not an impossible mission, but it is first important for the owner to know the type of paint that is done on his motorcycle. In some older models, it is still possible to find solid paint without varnish, which is currently of little use because it is less resistant to time action. Solid varnish paint is widely used by manufacturers today, featuring brighter colors and giving the motor a brighter appearance. If this is a painting done on your motorcycle, the focus is conservation of the varnish, which is responsible for the protective coating of paint that is applied to the parts being painted.

Look at useful tips and simple steps that prevent damage and maintain your motorcycle’s paint:

Cleaning

Keeping the bike clean is the most important. Accumulation of impurities is a major cause of risk. Don’t wait for the rinse to get rid of dust, dirt or grime from your motorcycle, otherwise the friction of the dirt collected with paint will damage the varnish and the damage will not be avoided. Clean your motorcycle with a wet cloth if possible, but be careful: Use only water or certain motorcycle cleaners, neutral soap is a good choice and you can even use it to clean your helmet. General detergents are abrasive and damage paint. Never use a dry cloth that will only pull dirt through the bodywork and cause scratches.

Store your bike well

Keep your motorcycle protected from rain and sun. You might consider materials like those used in cheap car wrap. The acidity of rainwater erodes the varnish, and prolonged exposure to the sun alters the pigmentation of your motorcycle’s paint, giving it an aged and worn look. If your garage is not covered, use a cover to protect it from the action of these natural factors, as well as dust and dirt accumulation.

Wash calmly and carefully

A very common mistake is washing motorcycles with pressurized water equipment. Pressure causes water to seep into the electrical parts, as well as using varnish. Ideally, always wash with cold water, which should be spread gently using a sponge or soft cloth. Use only shampoo for this purpose and rinse as soon as possible. We recommend washing the motor in the shade to avoid stains that may be caused by the sun when the motor soap. Clean the motorcycle with a very soft cloth (e.g. cloth diaper), and leave it on the stand until all the water flows from the powder section, carefully doubling the chrome side to prevent rust. Be careful when using kerosene to clean the engine and wheels: if it comes in contact with plastic and rubber parts, it can cause dryness, and if it touches the paint, the result will be a stain that can only be dried by tinkers.

Wax

If the paint is in perfect condition, use liquid colorless automotive wax. Paste waxes are effective in removing small scratches and are therefore somewhat abrasive, so only use them if you have extreme skill at the time of application, or varnish wear will be inevitable. And whatever wax is used, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use.

We hope these tips can be useful.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Common reasons for bike roadworthy failures

You can avoid failing your motorcycle roadworthy if you pay attention to some of the most common failures.

Riders in Australia have varied conditions for roadworthies.

In Queensland, you only need one when you sell your vehicle. In some other states you need regular roadworthy certificates that depend on the age of your bike.

The three most common reasons for breakdowns in Australia are flat tyres and batteries and simply running out of fuel, according to roadside assistance services.Readers offered 15% roadside assist discount

Get a 15% discount on your roadside assist

So it is also important to check your tyres and battery when getting your regular or once-off roadworthy check.

Having an empty tank won’t fail you on your roadworthy!

Roadworthy stats

UK second-hand bike sales website WeWantYourMotorbike delved into the statistics on why motorcycles fail their annual test of vehicle safety, roadworthiness and exhaust emissions required for most vehicles over three years old.

They found some interesting statistics, but the one that caught our eye shows how motorcyclists look after their bikes more than drivers look after their cars.

Only 16.9% of motorbikes fail their initial MOT tests compared with 33.6% of cars and 42.2% for goods vehicles.

We are certain the same would apply around the world. Riders tend to look after their bikes.

However, when they do fail, the stats show it could easily have been fixed beforehand.

The failure could also have dire safety consequences for the rider.

The Most Common Reasons For UK MOT Failure (% of failures)

Light & reflectors 40.21%
Brakes 16.83%
Structure & attachments 10.77%
Tyres 9.95%
Suspension 8.85%
Steering 5.5%
Vehicle ID  4.09%
Horn 2.86%
Wheels 0.93%

The Most Common Dangerous Defects (% of failures deemed dangerous)

Tyres 43.18%
Brakes 26.88%
Structure & attachments 12.02%
Lights & reflectors 6.02%
Steering 5.96%
Suspension 3.89%
Wheels 2.05%
Vehicle ID 0%
Horn 0%

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Readers offered 15% roadside assist discount

Recover My Ride is offering Motorbike Writer readers a 15% discount on 24/7 roadside assistance service for their motorcycle, car or other vehicle.

That’s a $25 saving on the normally $150/year service which provides you with total peace of mind!

All you have to do to redeem this generous offer is click here or click on the “Recover My Ride” advertisement on our home page.

It is open to all riders and drivers around Australia and will aid you in situations where your motorcycle or other vehicle is immobilised.

Reasons can include a flat battery, flat tyre, running out of petrol or any mechanical problems, but not a crash as that should be covered by your insurance.

It will pick up your bike or other vehicle on any sealed or designated safe road.

Your membership also includes, at no extra cost, free cover for your motorcycle trailer, caravan, box trailer and boat trailer.

Recover My Ride Roadside Assist Features:

  • Australia Wide.
  • Ambulance member benefit assistance.
  • Emergency Roadside Assist 24/7 365 Days.
  • Flat batteries jump starts.
  • Flat batteries replacement service.
  • Flat tyre change or transported to the nearest repairer.
  • Free out of fuel emergency.
  • Member benefit personal illness.
  • Member benefit personal injuries.
  • Member benefit car hire.
  • Member breakdown accommodation.
  • Unlimited callouts Australia wide.
  • Unlimited towing to the nearest repairer.
  • Unlimited breakdowns to nearest repairer.
  • Unlimited km to the nearest repairer.

Readers offered 15% roadside assist discountMotorbike Writer is happy to partner with Recover My Ride which we believe provides you with the best and most comprehensive roadside assistance in the country.

It’s also very affordable with no hidden costs.

Some other services may seem the same, but they can have hidden costs that can make a long-haul recovery very expensive.

Once an account has been set up, customers can add and pay for extra motorcycles, cars and others vehicles on the same account at any time.

Please read the terms and conditions first.Readers offered 15% roadside assist discount

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Best Tips to Customize Your Motorcycle

(CONTRIBUTED POST FOR NORTH AMERICAN READERS)

If you like to customize motorcycles, you should know how to do it properly. Modifications come in many different forms, but you may have to understand a few important basics before you can even start planning a major refinement.

Whether it’s adding small details or doing a major makeover, customizing your motorcycle takes time and money to pull off. That said, here are a few tips to make the most out of giving your bike an upgrade:

  1. Change the seats

Over time, the leather of the seat can wear out with cracks appearing on the surface. You can always by replacing the seat altogether and choosing a more comfortable alternative that firmly supports you. The new seat should have the right amount of softness so you can avoid straining your back during a long drive.

  1. Pick heavy duty tires

Performance-wise, your tires would make all the difference in keeping your motorcycle on the road and preventing it from slipping. If you want tires that are perfect for any road condition, look along the lines of all-weather tires for optimum stability on both dry and wet roads.

  1. Create a laser engraving

Nothing says you’re the sole owner of your bike quite like a custom engraving. An emblem or a coat of arms could be added to your bike to give it a touch of added coolness. You can always create engravings by hand, but this usually takes a lot of time to pull off. To save time and create intricate patterns and designs to add to your motorcycle, you can use a laser that’s capable of engraving different metals accurately.

  1. Add some lights

If you’re looking to be more creative when it comes to customizing your motorcycle, you might as well add some LED lights like those from XK Glow, especially on the bottom. Not only will this make your motorcycle look cool, but it also enhances your visibility at night. Don’t overdo it though as too much unnecessary lighting can actually distract you, other motorists, and pedestrians.

  1. Add some custom stickers

Stickers are like tattoos to your motorbike. Each one tells a different story. So, if you’re feeling adventurous, start by adding stickers that could give your bike a boost in appeal. If you don’t have a thing for stickers, you may want to overhaul your color palette and update the paint job.

  1. Look for hi-tech gadgets and features

There are a lot of gadgets you can attach to your motorbike. You just have to choose which ones to install. A GPS tracker, for one, is a good gadget to have, especially when it comes to traveling unfamiliar roads. You might also consider adding a GoPro mount to prepare your motorcycle for an adventure. 

Conquer the road by riding a bike that’s fully equipped for any journey. 

Use these motorcycle customization tips to finally give your ride the upgrade it deserves and impress anyone who might be dying to take it for a test drive!

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Video lampoons loud pipe machismo

Do loud pipes really save lives or is it more about machismo and attention-seeking behaviour?

This hilarious video lampoons the latter theory.

Loud pipes theory

I won’t be popular for this, but “Loud Pipes Saves Lives” is a theory, not a proven fact.

I’m sure many readers will provide examples of how they reckon a loud motorcycle exhaust saved their lives.

But let’s look at this scientifically.

Supporters of this contention say that loud pipes alert motorists that there is a bike somewhere about.

In a situation of impending collision, the bike is approaching the vehicle it is about to collide with, right? It’s not going in the opposite direction, is it?

They may be approaching from the side, from in front or from behind, but they are not riding away from the vehicle with which they are about to collide.

So the noise of the bike really needs to precede the bike to alert the impending collider, right?

But exhaust pipes don’t face forward. They face backward with the bulk of the noise trailing behind, not going out in front of them.

High frequency sounds are easy to discern direction. However, low frequencies such as exhaust noise can be omnidirectional.

That makes it difficult for a driver in an air-conditioned cabin with the radio on to discern where the noise is coming from.Loud pipes save lives keyring - motorcycles EPA cars exhaust machismo

Guilty driver

I have been guilty of driving a car and having no idea that a motorcycle is rapidly riding into my blind spot. Not until they are alongside or already past do I actually hear their exhaust pipe.

Just how loud would exhaust pipes have to be for people in front to hear them clearly and be a truly effective safety alert?

Rather than adding to the already cacophonous state of our urban traffic, wouldn’t it actually be better and safer for riders to alert traffic with a short blast on the horn?

If you are riding along a street and see a car sitting at an intersection and you are not sure they have seen or heard you, wouldn’t it be more effective to give a couple of quick taps on the horn to gain their attention?

A horn blast surely has more of an alert tone than the gradually increasing rumble of an exhaust pipe facing the wrong way. (Be aware that in some jurisdictions, blowing the horn may be illegal, except for emergency warnings.)

There are other things you can do to get yourself noticed such as changing speed and moving around in your lane. (Dare I say, bright riding gear may help, but certainly not your machismo.)

All these proactive safety measures are much better than the ingrained and misguided trust in the safety values of a loud pipe.

In fact, reliance on a loud pipe could be hindering your active safety avoidance measures and placing you and your machismo in greater danger.

Machismo note

Road names motorcycles Triumph Street Scrambler machismo
MBW’s Triumph Street Scrambler has an aftermarket pipe that is not illegal

Don’t get me wrong, I love the sound of a baritone exhaust note. Not that gets my machismo going! That rumbling sound is music to my ears and motivation to my soul.

My Triumph Street Scrambler has a legal aftermarket exhaust pipe that is not annoying, but has a lovely, musical note.

However, I detest those barking, angry pipes that give me a headache and only serve to upset most of the population.

In fact, noise (barking dogs, traffic, trains etc) is the most complained about issue in suburban life. Do we really need to attract more anger against bikes and bikers?

While loud pipes may not necessarily save any lives, they most assuredly are bad PR for a minority group that gets enough bad press as it is.

Let’s be honest, the people who advocate loud pipes love the sound of the pipes and/or love people hearing them and being intimidated.

Just go back and watch the video again.

While I’ve never witnessed a loud pipe saving my life or anyone else’s I have witnessed loud pipes causing dogs to start barking and horses to run into barbed wire fences.

Favourite noise

MV Agusta Brutale 800 RR Pirelli now sole supplier to MV Agusta machismo
MV Agusta Brutale 800 RR “organ pipes”

My favourite bike noise is actually the roar of the bike inhaling, rather than exhaling. The MV Agusta Brutale has beautiful “organ pipes”, but it’s the induction roar that is absolutely glorious.

And best of all, it sounds like a Singer sewing machine when it goes past pedestrians, motorists, dogs and horses. That’s because the induction sound is cleverly pointed at the rider and not the passerby.

Motorcycle and car manufacturers have been spending millions of dollars on research into how to best channel these “good” sounds toward the rider/driver rather than at the passing scenery.

This has mainly been forced on them by increasingly stringent noise limitation laws, but the byproduct is that we get more entertaining motorcycles to ride and we cheese off fewer motorists, pedestrians, dogs and horses.

What do you think about loud pipes? Leave your comments in the box below.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com