Midlife Motorcycle Madness Motorcycle Blog

Bates Boots Revisited

2012-01-21T20:09:00.000-06:00

Bates Boots Revisited

I wrote a review in June of "09 of Bates E02264 5" Defender Tactical Boots. Well they have served me well for quite some time and as many miles at work, and for riding. I finally wore the tread just about clean off of them. They are a little worse for wear but the zippers and everything have held up just fine. So fine, in fact, that I went out looking for a new pair. Here are some photos of the worn out boots:

I could not fine the same model at the local Academy Sports & Outdoors around my area. So, last month, I went with the Bates Men's 8" Tactical Sport Side Zip Boot. They are a little taller and don't have the composite toe protector, but have all the same features:

So far, the new pair have been holding up just fine. Some of the best features of these boots are that they increase your machismo and sex appeal. They also have fantastic traction. The best feature, however, is their easy on and off with the side zipper. These Bates boots definitely was made for ridin'!

Ride on,

Torch

BikersExpressway.com

Bikers Expressway is Live

2011-12-28T11:32:00.004-06:00

Bikers Expressway

"The hottest motorcycle deals on the information highway"

Bikers Expressway is your one-stop source for the latest deals on gear, clothing, equipment, and accessories from hundreds of leading motorcycle retailers. Whether you ride a sport bike, cruiser, adventure, touring, sport touring, dual sport, scooter or trike, we give you the answers you need to make informed shopping decisions. We sort through hundreds of sales and promotions and publish the best of them for our readers. We share only what we feel is a great deal and would recommend to other riders.

Bikers Expressway is your first and only place to stop before shopping. You will only find the newest and best deals, all in one place. As your one-stop shopping resource we will save you money and more importantly, your valuable time. With all the motorcycle specials in one place, all you have to do is check Bikers Expressway website or subscribe to our mailing list and start enjoying the savings.

So, if you're tired of surfing from site to site searching for deals, or tired of getting several emails a day, come to Bikers Expressway. Here, no matter what you ride, you will find big savings every time you shop!

Don't miss out! Sign up for my free Bikers Expressway's Email Alerts and get the best Motorcycle Deals delivered straight to your inbox.

I welcome your emails at Torch@BikersExpressway.com.

Thank you for visiting & ride on,

Torch

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Bikers-Expressway/210275635722078

https://plus.google.com/116484998669841253521

https://twitter.com/#!/BikersExpresswa

Interesting Photos from the Progressive International Dallas Motorcycle Show 2011

2011-12-16T20:33:00.002-06:00

Thought that would get your attention!

More Interesting Photos from the Progressive International Dallas Motorcycle Show 2011

(Click to enlarge)

AMA American Superbike champion Josh Hayes YZF-R1

Jorge Lorenzo's MotoGP Bike

Familiar Faces??

The Harley Davidson Living Room Suite

Recognize this man?

Cool Stuff at the S&S display

The CMRA had a Booth!

Long-Distance Rider Doug Wothke

Doug Wothke again

Ride on,

Torch

Smage Bros Stunt Show @ Dallas International Motorcycle Show

2011-12-15T21:38:00.000-06:00

Smage Bros Stunt Show @ Dallas Progressive International Motorcycle Show

Dec 2011

Doing all kinds of crazy stunts.

Click to enlarge!

Ride on,
Torch

Vintage Bikes at The International Motorcycle Show

2011-12-11T18:21:00.001-06:00

Vintage Bikes at The Progressive International Motorcycle Show

Dallas TX

(Click to photo to enlarge)

Ride on,

Torch

New Bikes at the International Motorcycle Show

2011-12-08T19:41:00.001-06:00

New Bikes at the Progressive International Motorcycle Show Dallas Texas

(Remember to click on image for larger view)

See the QR Code Above!

Ride on,
Torch

Custom Bikes of the International Motorcycle Show Dallas TX

2011-12-06T12:00:00.000-06:00

My second post about the Progressive International Motorcycle Show

Dallas Tx 12-3-2011

Here are some of the custom build off bikes:

Videos

Photos

Click to Enlarge

More to come...

Ride on,
Torch

Rick Fairless Royal Enfield Project Unveiling

2011-12-03T16:01:00.001-06:00

Fresh from the Progressive International Motorcycle Show Dallas Texas

Sat. December 3, 20011

Rick Fairless of Strokers

Remember to click on photo to enlarge.

Before the Unveiling

Rick put his twist on the Royal Enfield Green

He fired it up for the crowd!

One lucky attendee. (Not Me!)

See Torch at the Progressive International Motorcycle Show

2011-11-24T08:04:00.000-06:00

See me at the Progressive International Motorcycle Show Saturday December 3rd at the Dallas Convention Center. They have all kinds of neat things going on this year.

Start reading about last years show here:
http://midlifemotorcyclemadness.blogspot.com/2010/11/international-motorcycle-show-dallas.html

From New York to California, the 12-city nationwide tour of the Progressive^® International Motorcycle Shows^® offers more than 500,000 consumers and 900 exhibitors from all powersports lifestyle interests an all access pass to the world of motorcycling. With hundreds of the latest street bikes, dirt bikes, cruisers, scooters and ATVs for both new and experienced riders, the world’s largest traveling powersports event gives enthusiasts of all ages the opportunity to check out the latest gear and aftermarket accessories. The show also offers entertainment including a thrilling trials stunt show from The Smage Bros, made famous by their top 10 finish in a nationally televised talent competition; a custom bike competition offering over $90,000 in prize money and featuring $20 million worth of motorcycle machinery; an all-new exclusive Kawasaki Design-A-Bike digital light painting experience; information tailored for women riders, learning experiences and more.

The Progressive^® International Motorcycle Shows^® is announcing its newest feature to join the 2011/2012 tour. Kawasaki and the Progressive International Motorcycle Shows have licensed an exclusive technology from Lumacoustics to offer an all-new experience for show goers called: Kawasaki Design-A-Bike, which is a state-of-the-art interactive digital wall display that provides motorcycle enthusiasts with a true hands-on creative experience. The life size display allows users to virtually design their own custom exterior paint and graphics package on a selected Kawasaki motorcycle. Kawasaki will showcase its stylish Vulcan^® 1700 Vaquero^®, the multi-championship-winning KX^™ 450F, and the award winning Ninja^® 1000 as two-wheeled canvases. This new feature will be available at each show.

“The all-new Kawasaki Design-A-Bike feature offered exclusively at the Progressive International Motorcycle Shows is cool, state-of-the-art technology that allows customers to better interact with our products. We strive to innovate in this highly competitive market, and the new Kawasaki Design-A-Bike system truly delivers. This feature will travel with the 2011/2012 shows, offering a fun and exciting new hands-on experience directly to 500,000 current and potential customers,” said Chris Brull, director, marketing communications at Kawasaki.

November 18-20, 2011 San Mateo County Event Center San Mateo, CA
December 2-4, 2011 Dallas Convention Center Dallas, TX
December 9-11, 2011 Long Beach Convention Center Long Beach, CA
December 16-18, 2011 Washington State Convention Center Seattle, WA
January 6-8, 2012 Suburban Collection Showplace Novi, MI
January 13-15, 2012 Washington Convention Center Washington D.C.
January 20-22, 2012 Jacob K. Javits Convention Center New York, NY
January 27-29, 2012 I-X Center Cleveland, OH
February 3-5, 2012 Minneapolis Convention Center Minneapolis, MN
February 10-12, 2012 Donald E. Stephens Convention Center Chicago, IL
February 24-26, 2012 Charlotte Convention Center Charlotte, NC
March 14-17, 2012 Ocean Center Daytona Beach, FL

The Progressive International Motorcycle Shows will launch the Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show, an elite-level custom motorcycle builder competition, in San Mateo, Calif., the first stop of its nationwide tour. Contestants are encouraged to enter at any and all of the 12 shows for a chance to win a piece of the $90,000 cash purse, more than any builder competition in the world. Four cash prize winners will be chosen at each show and at a special United States Championship finale set to take place at the Daytona Progressive International Motorcycle Show during Daytona Bike Week, March 12-17, 2012. With more than 500 custom-built bikes on display across the country, the Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show sets itself apart as the world’s largest touring custom bike competition.

“Following the tremendous success of last year’s Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show that saw more than 300 bikes compete, we are thrilled it returns this year for all 12-stops on the tour,” said Progressive International Motorcycle Shows Brand Director Kerry Graeber. “This head-to-head motorcycle matchup offers attendees a chance to see hundreds of truly amazing motorcycles valued at more than $20 million. Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet the artists who create these unique designs and even vote for their favorite.”

The Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show will host four classes of competition including Hot Bike’s Modified Harley, Super Streetbike’s Performance Custom Sportbike, Freestyle and, new this year, Retro Mod. Judging will be conducted by the competitors themselves, with the top builders in each class receiving awards, in addition to a special “People’s Choice” award given to the builder who receives the most votes from show attendees. An awards ceremony will take place at each show where winners will receive cash prizes and trophies followed by a short interview so attendees can learn the story behind the award-winning bikes.

Attendees who vote for the “People’s Choice” award are automatically entered to win a custom-built Honda Fury, sponsored by MotorcycleUSA.com. The customized Honda Fury built by MotorcycleUSA.com will be featured at each of the tour stops, located at the MotorcycleUSA.com Voting Center, next to the Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show. One winner will be

Progressive International Motorcycle Shows Kicks-Off Tourwide Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show – Page 2

selected at the conclusion of the tour during Daytona Bike Week. Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show coverage and results will be posted at www.Motorcycle-USA.com. Space at each Ultimate Builder Custom Bike Show is limited. Interested custom builders should log on to www.motorcycleshows.com or call Biker Pros at 919/450-5060 for more details.

Hope to see you there, and don't forget bikes park free!
Torch

Add Torch's Badge to Your Motorcycle / Biker Blog!

2011-11-19T17:51:00.000-06:00

If your Motorcycle / Biker Blog is on Torch's Great Motorcycle / Biker Blogs List, please reciprocate and add this Badge to your Blog and link back to the list. I host one of the largest Motorcycle / Biker Blog Directories on the Internet and it is FREE! Note: Not all of these Blogs represent my views and some are NSFW. Email Me If you would like your Motorcycle / Biker Blog added, or to report dead links.

Ride on,
Torch

I've been chosen to participate in Crown Royal's #PASSTHECROWN Gift Exchange.

2011-11-16T11:25:00.000-06:00

I've been chosen to participate in Crown Royal's #PASSTHECROWN Gift Exchange.

HOW IT WORKS:

• There will be a random selection where each influencer will be provided a selection order from one (1) to twenty (20), the total number of influencers participating.

• The first day of the game, Nov. 14 at 9 a.m. ET, the first influencer will be sent a digitally embroidered Crown Royal bag (example mockup image below). Since they are the first person, they will not have a choice on whether to open it or not. The bag will be accompanied by a photo and description of their gift for the influencer to post on their site, Tweet about and include in a Facebook update. Remember, other than the bottles of Crown Royal (see Misc. below), you will be receiving two of each gift – one for you and one for a lucky adult reader (21+, to be distributed however you deem fit), so they should be very interested as they have a shot at winning too!

• After each gift is opened a group e-mail will be sent from PassTheCrown@taylorstrategy.com to all participating influencers alerting them which influencer received (or stole) which gift. This note will also serve as a daily reminder of which day you will be selecting on.

• The next morning, suspense will start to build as the second influencer will receive a clue to their gift via another digitally embroidered bag that the influencer will post to their site, Tweet about and include in a Facebook update. The goal is to engage your readers and followers to see what they think is in the bag and provide feedback on whether you should open it and discover what gift is inside or steal the present opened by the first influencer.

• You will have until 4 p.m. ET that day to obtain feedback from your readers and let us know your decision. If you decide to open the bag, we will send you a photo and description of the gift for you to share with your readers. If you decide to steal the gift from the first influencer, we will send you a photo and description of that gift and alert the first influencer that their gift has been stolen. We will then send the first influencer the gift that was contained in your bag. If the influencer does not respond by 5 p.m. ET they will automatically keep their bag and open the gift.

• Again, a group e-mail will be sent from PassTheCrown@taylorstrategy.com to all participating influencers alerting them which influencer received which gift and who stole what from whom.

• The process will continue throughout the program until all gifts had been distributed. Upon completion, the influencer with the first pick will be given the opportunity to steal any gift for the last time. Once the first person goes for the last time, the game is over and all of the gifts will be mailed.

Here is my hint photo:

So, do I keep it or trade for some of the other prizes?

Custom bags are available available to adults (21+) on www.CrownRoyal.com for $9.95 and feature a max of 40 characters – perfect for the person who says it short and sweet. Or, your readers can personalize a Crown Royal bottle label – for free.

Torch

Moto for Education

2011-11-12T16:29:00.001-06:00

I Got an E-Mail from Rick Rose requesting a mention about a noble cause. Here is a copy of his letter.

I’m hoping you’ll post something about Moto For Education in your blog, and help get the word out about a desperate situation.

My cousin volunteers for a school in Honduras that provides distance education for the Lenca people of the region. When she told me that the four teachers were prevented from reaching their students -- some almost 100 km. away through difficult mountainous terrain -- because two of their old motorcycles died, and the third can barely be repaired, I offered to help. I think it’s safe to say that anyone who bikes, races or rides knows the value of a reliable set of wheels -- I sure couldn’t do without mine. And I know that motorcycle enthusiasts are also a caring bunch of people. So I’m spreading the word that those teachers -- Bertha, Arturo, Armando, and Natividad – desperately need our help. A whole lot of small donations will quickly add up to a huge difference in the lives of their students. To learn more about this wonderful distance education program, El Maestro en Casa (Teacher in the Home), and to make a donation, go to Moto For Education at http://lencaeducation.org/support-us/moto-for-education. Let’s make a difference in the lives of Lenca students. Let’s help them buy a new motorcycle for their school.

I’m attaching a logo, and a photo of Bertha and the last remaining motorcycle. I’m also attaching a photo of me and my old lady (literally, old: it’s my 88-year-old mother) on my 650 Yamaha. Feel free to use any or all, and to edit the text if you need to.

Many thanks for your consideration and help,

Rick Rose

You can donate by clicking the link.

Ride on,
Torch

Motorcycle Insurance .Org .UK

2011-11-02T20:00:00.000-05:00

Here is a guest post from the other side of the pond by Matt Seigneur about Motorcycle Insurance.org.uk.

====START====

Motorbike trackdays give you the edge on the road

It's a common misconception from fuddy-duddies and some motorists that trackdays encourage racing on the roads. In fact, it's the complete opposite. With some bikes being able to go beyond the national speed limit within a matter of four seconds, a trackday can relieve riders of the temptation to tempt fate with their license. The fact is, with some practice, experience and even a little racing instruction, bikers are one of the best and most aware motorists on the road. The full bike test is more difficult to pass compared to a car license, and by having the opportunity to test your bike fully on track, you can be even more 'at-one' with your machine.

By having a safe environment to understand how your bike reacts to curbs, long-fast sweeping corners and hard braking will give you an edge on the road. In most circumstances, it's necessary to have the correct motorcycleinsurance or a specific trackday insurance, however as it's becoming more of a trend, some insurers will have a bolt-on package for each trackday. When you have other bikers around you testing their bike's limits around you, the chances of having a collision are just as much as they are on the road, except they are usually at higher speed.

No one wants to see how much gravel rash their fairings can take so before your trackday, ensure your tyres have good tread, or invest in some trackday tyres, and that they engine is in tip-top condition. With a safe, well-maintained bike you can enjoy your trackday more. With your bike in rude health, you need to make sure you've slept well and have had a good meal, to maintain your strength and fitness when flip-flopping your way down the Craner Curves.

A few pointers for newbie bikers that are encountering their first trackday:

• Make sure you have a good helmet and leathers

• Listen and learn from the track officials

• Make sure your bike passes scrutineering (and no, bunging £10 to the tester isn't what I mean!)

• Don't punch above your weight and go into the advanced group. No matter how much road experience you have, if it's your first track day then you're a newbie and should go in the beginner class.

• Don't get over-zealous. You want to be able to do another trackday, right? Then make sure you keep it on two wheels.

So, you've sorted out your motorbikeinsurance and you have taped up your lights, ensured you're fit and healthy, and have a leak-free motorbike. Warm up your tyres, check your mirrors for faster bikes and let them get on with it, and ride your own 'race'. Practice perfecting your lines, braking zones, exit speeds and being smooth and in control. This will guarantee you have a more enjoyable day that you can look back on with a beer (when you get home!) and plan your next trackday. Chances are you won't want to ride your bike fast on the roads ever again.

====END ======

So, If you ride in the UK and need insurance, check them out.

Ride on,

Torch

MyInfo911 launches Emergency Product

2011-10-29T14:34:00.001-05:00

MyInfo911 launches Emergency Product to Help Victims of Motorcycle Accidents to Have Their Voices Heard

The goal of MyInfo911 is to help First Responders save lives by providing information instantly on the victim at the site of the motorcycle accident.

Daytona Beach, FL (PRWEB) October 20, 2011

MyInfo911, a Palm Coast, Florida company, launched its first product, an Emergency ID Card in May of this year, to provide First Responders the much needed medical information of a victim involved in an accident.

Biketoberfest, an annual 4 day gathering of motorcycle enthusiasts, which occurs in Daytona Beach every October, just concluded its festivities on Sunday, October 16th. During those 4 days, several accidents occured involving cars and motorcycles which resulted in 6 deaths.

MyInfo911 provides a sticker package which has been designed to be used on a motorcycle helmet, on the inside fender of the motorcycle or on the saddlebag. This sticker has a photo of the account holder and a QR Code which is accessed by a smartphone, that provides the First Responders instant access to the victims allergies, blood type, medications and Emergency Contact person. The Emergency contact person is automatically contacted by email to advise that the victims card has been activated. "Every Biker in the United States should have one of these cards and sticker packages", said Motorcycle Rider Geraldine Valentino, "There are too many people out there who don't pay attention on the roads so accidents involving Bikers is inevitable. Having this card or sticker on the Bike can literally save your life because especially in Motorcycle accidents, seconds really do count!"

About MyInfo911
Started in October 2010, MyInfo911 provides emergency identification cards that use QR codes to provide pertinent medical history information to first responders and other medical providers. The Palm Coast, Florida based company’s cards have the person’s picture, name and QR code on the front and the person’s name, year of birth, emergency contact, blood type, allergies and specific medical conditions on the back. For more information visithttp://www.myinfo911.com

###

This new product may have some merit.

Ride on,

Torch

Dying to Ride

2011-10-12T20:57:00.000-05:00

9 ASTER PLACE FENHAM NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE NE4 9SE ENGLAND

http://dyingtoride.org DyingtoRide@hotmail.com 01912414230

IT COSTS YOU NOTHING TO SAVE A LIFE

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

DRIVERS ARE NOT AWARE OF MOTORCYCLISTS

Drivers of other vehicles do not see motorcycles until they hear the crashing sound. Then it’s too late.

Drivers of other vehicles need to be educated on motorcycle awareness. Today, more motorcyclists are being injured or killed by drivers of other vehicles because the drivers do even think about watching out for motorcycles/

Dying to Ride was founded to promote motorcycle awareness. DTR will be presenting motorcycle awareness to students at high school learner driver classes and to different groups of experienced adult drivers. DYING TO Ride is more than a motorcycle awareness organization.

Dying to Ride is also providing comfort to widows of motorcycle collisions. Teresa has experienced the pain and grief of becoming a widow through a motorcycle collision. She is providing practical and emotional support through her experience to help other widows cope with their loss. As Teresa helps other widows, she will be asking them to join her in a group to help future widows.

Dying to Ride has future plans to introduce legislation to mandate that drivers of other vehicles who are involved in collisions with motorcycles are required to attend a motorcycle awareness course. Dying to Ride strongly believes the introduction of this legislation will in itself make awareness more important to drivers.

The testimony telling why Dying to Ride was founded by Teresa Mills , after her husband Rob was involved in a fatal collision with a careless driver. Dying to Ride is not a business. It is a dedication and a will to present motorcycle awareness to the drivers of other vehicles to prevent what happened to her from happening to others. The DTR testimony is attached for your convenience and can be viewed on the Dying to Ride website at http://dyingtoride.org/testimony.htm

for more info contact Teresa Mills Davenport: DyingtoRide@hotmail.com 01912414230

http://dyingtoride.org/

DTR Facebook Cause

DTR on Twitter

-----------

Looks like an honorable cause. Be sure and read Teresa's testimony. We could use a branch in the States.

Ride on,
Torch

Back in the Saddle Again!Back in the Saddle Again!

2011-10-02T18:15:00.001-05:00

Back in the Saddle Again!

(Click on any photo to enlarge)

Mistress is up and running wild again with new front wheel bearings. A week and a half after getting most of damage repaired from our spill I started noticing a slight roaring sound from the left front that got louder at highway speeds while taking corners to the left. So, remembering my son Jake’s run in with a front wheel bearing locking up on him, fortunately he was going slowly at the time, I decided to play it safe and parked her. That is, until I could save up enough money to purchase the wheel bearing kit and also clean my stuffed garage so I would have room to operate on her.

The wheel bearing kit was not expensive and I ordered it online. I found a good deal on amazon.com for an "All Balls Street Wheel Bearing Kit - Front 25-1448" for the low-low price of $24.53 which included shipping. The kit arrived in about a week. Now I just needed to get that blasted garage cleaned up…

I also was reacquainted with an old co-worker, Craig Whitlock, an avid Honda VTX 1800 rider. I also worked with Craig’s father-in-law, the late Great Danny Evans who passed away over a year ago from cancer. He was also a Honda VTX 1800 Rider. I remembered he used to make metal tubular lever motorcycle lifts to sell. So, I asked Craig if he had any of them still lying around and low-and-behold I had two of them the next day, one for my son and one for me. Several months later I got the garage halfway cleaned up with enough room to work on the voluptuous V-Star 1100 Classic.

So, now it was time to get to work on the bike. The first thing I did was head over to the V-Star 1100 Riders Knowledge Base and perused the several repair manuals on how to replace the front wheel bearings. If you own a V-Star, you need to have access to this treasure trove and the V-Star 100 Forum. After that I got Johnny, one of my boys, (I have one daughter and five boys), to support the bike while I lifted it up using the tubular bike lift.

The tubular bike lift Danny made was an ingenious design. It uses leverage to lift the bike up and support it from underneath on the bottom frame. It consisted of two tubes held together in a rectangle with the front bar that does the actual lifting covered in a piece of rubber so as to not mar up your bikes frame. Attached to the left front corner is the long handle which supplies the leverage to lift the bike and the ground support to hold it in place when pulled and lowered to the ground. The end of the bar is slightly cantilevered so you don’t smash your fingers when lowering and make it easier to grab ahold of when ready to lift it up to lower the bike. There is a small piece of rectangular metal reinforcement from the lower bars to the handle to help handle the stress. The whole thing is painted and the open bar ends are capped off to make it complete. This lift worked like a charm.

The next step is to remove the wheel. First, block off the brake lever so no one accidently pulls it while the brake calipers are off. I used and electrical outlet expander. Remove both side front brake caliper bottom bolt and loosen the upper all the way. The reflectors are in the way of taking the bolts all the way out, but allow the bolts to be backed out far enough to remove the calipers.

Once the brake calipers are free, remove the pinch bolt from the bottom of the right front fork. Next remove the axle bolt. Note: this bolt is real tight and I used a large breaker bar to break it loose. After removing the axle bolt the wheel can drop free. Depending on how high off the ground the front of the bike is will depend on how hard it is to wrestle from between the forks and fender. The two collar spacers may fall out, if not they can be removed at this time by simply pulling them out.

Once the wheel is removed be sure not to lay the wheel directly on anything that will put pressure on the brake rotors. I used and old plastic square milk box to set mine on and it fit perfectly. The rubber axle seals can now be removed simply using a screwdriver. The next step requires a special tool to remove the old bearings.

The old wheel bearings have to be pulled from the center of the wheel using a Blind Hole Bearing Puller. Not having one of those I waited until my son Jake had a free Saturday morning to help me, since I did not have enough dough to cover the deposit on the tool kit. We barrowed tool kit free from AutoZone using his debit/credit card. Note, when we returned the tool kit they will only give you cash back, not credit the card back.

The Dead Hole Bearing puller tool worked well. You put the clawed grabbing end inside to just below the bearing and tighten it up spreading the claws behind the bearing. Next you attach the slide hammer like part to the top and slam it up until is slowly extracts the bearing from the wheel. Now you can remove the center collar that sets between the two bearings. Flip the tire over and do it again on the other bearing.

Next just clean all the parts that are re-used with something. I used brake cleaner and an old t-shirt rag. We packed some more wheel-bearing grease around the new bearings and put a light coating on everything else. After everything is cleaned up, dried and lubed you put it all back together in reverse order using the new bearings and seals of course.

The new wheel bearings have to be pressed back into the wheel. We used a piece of flat steel and hammered the bearing until it was flush. Then searched all over the garage until I found a round part made of metal that was just the right size of the bearing to finish tapping the bearing down until it seated. After flipping the wheel over re-insert the center collar and press the other bearing in occasionally running the axle bolt through to make sure the center collar is aligned and centered properly.

Next install the new grease seals. They just press in by hand. Now the two collar spacers can be inserted into the grease seals and the tire reinstalled back on the forks. Torque down the axle bolt and reinstall the pinch bolt. Install the brake calipers and remove the brake lever block.

While I was working on her I also tried to make some adjustments to the foot-heel shifter pivot which I think got tweaked in the wreck. Lastly, I cleaned the left front turn signal bulb socket which corrosion was causing a fast blink. Viola, she was ready to ride.

he fired right up, because I had kept her on a trickle charger, and I immediately took a short test ride up and down the freeway to make sure everything was working properly, and it was. Ahhh, the joy of ridin'...

This post dedicated to the late Great Danny Evans: May 3, 1958 - January 2, 2010 – RIP

Ride on,

Torch

Bikers Bay Bedford Texas Has Moved!

2011-09-24T13:27:00.000-05:00

Bikers Bay Bedford Texas Has Moved!

3164 Harwood Road Bedford, Texas 76021

Map and Directions

Phone number: 817-354-1400

Fax Number: 817-354-1407

Store Hours:

Sunday & Monday Closed

Tuesday Through Friday 9am – 6pm

Saturday 8am - 4pm

Bikers Bay is Bedford’s only Ride In - Ride Out ® motorcycle service shop. Bikers Bay performs general maintenance services on all makes and models of motorcycles. Services include oil changes, tires, batteries, bolt on accessories, interval services, State Inspections and general repairs, all completed by certified technicians. No appointment is ever needed for our Ride In -Ride Out services. Bikers Bay only uses top quality parts and products to service your bike.

Bikers Bay Bedford also carries a complete line of parts, accessories and Biker apparel from many of the leading suppliers.

We pride our self on quality of our work and personalized customer service. Watch your bike being serviced through our shop viewing windows, talk to the tech who services your bike or discuss your customizing project with our experienced parts staff. We are here to assist you in what you need not what someone thinks they should sell you.

Stop in today, check out our shop and experience the convenience, quality, value and excellent service we offer. This shop is family owned and operated by local riders like you. Come by and meet my father, Michael Brown, our General Manager.

Proprietor's: William and Leann Brown

______

My son and I have both been shopping at Bikers Bay in Bedford for several years and have been real happy with the service and products. They have recently relocated even closer to me, Yea! I figure they could use a little PR.

So ride over to Bikers bay and tell 'em Torch sent ya.

Ride on,
Torch

Tell us About Your Favorite Ride Contest

2011-08-13T08:11:00.001-05:00

Competition Accessories is having a Tell us About Your Favorite Ride Contest. Not only can you post your own story about your favorite ride, you can read all about other bikers rides.

"We love riding just as much as you do, would love to hear about those great motorcycling memories! It doesn’t matter if it was an epic ‘round the world adventure, or just an awesome daytrip. Send us a write-up about your most memorable ride (bonus point for pictures and videos!), and you will eligible to win a $25, $15, or $10 gift card! Please submit your entries to this link, compcontest@gmail.com. The stores can be short or as long as you want. Submission will be featured on our Facebook page and on our blog, and we’ll be voting on our favorite here in the office. The contest runs from Tuesday, August 9, 2011 until Noon (EST) on Friday, August 19, 2011. Winters will be announced on Friday August 19, 2011 around 3pm (EST) via Facebook, Blog and Email."

Check it out here:http://blog.compacc.com/contests/tell-us-about-your-favorite-ride-contest/

Ride on,
Torch

Nifty Motorcycle Related Decorating Items

2011-07-30T16:37:00.001-05:00

Nifty Motorcycle Related Decorating Items Spotted at the local Hobby Lobby I thought was interesting enough to share, Click to enlarge:

This was a neat framed shadow box of a Miniature Motorcycle Shop

Assorted Metal Bikes

Evan a Side Car

Wall Art

Wall Mural

Ride On,

Torch

Follow Torch & Midlife Motorcycle Madness on Google +

2011-07-13T19:06:00.000-05:00

Torch & Midlife Motorcycle Madness is on the new social media from Google, Google +. If you've gotten yourself on Google ° (one of the 10 million estimated users by last weekend), you can follow me here: Torch

And of course,
Ride on,
Torch

Find The Best

2011-07-02T13:27:00.003-05:00

Hello MMM Readers- FindTheBest.com

I don't need to tell you that buying a new bike is both an exciting and daunting task. A bike is a reflection of its rider, and you want your next bike to fit your particular riding style. With hundreds of bikes in a verity of categories—from cruiser and sport to chopper and touring—you are going to be baffled if you head to the dealership without a game plan. Instead of looking at dozens of sites reading hundreds of opinions FindTheBest's Motorcycle Comparison offers you an objective database of over 240 motorcycle.

Differentiate your picks by horsepower, displacement, MSRP, spec break down, and much more! If you have your heart set on a particular manufacturer, such as a Harley-Davidson, select Harley-Davidson from the drop-down Manufacturer menu for a listing of all relevant bikes. Having trouble deciding between the 33 different 2011 Harley models? Pick up to ten bikes that initially catch your eye and hit the "Compare" button. Your custom side-by-side will show detailed information on the engines, factory warranty, suspension, wheel size, available colors, and more; when I use "objective" I really mean it!

2011 Harley-Davidson VRSC V-Rod Muscle Motorcycle vs 2011 Harley-Davidson Touring Road King Motorcyc...

In order for the comparison to meet its full potential, it requires the assistance of the entire motorcycle community. This is a call to action: Help your fellow riders by providing them with a "User Review," found at the bottom listing of the bike you ride or have ridden in the past. Top FTBers are recognized on our User Profile Comparison, so help your fellow riders and become an FTBer today!

Ride on,
Torch

RevZilla's Gear Givaway

2011-06-26T12:33:00.002-05:00

Here is another Gear Giveaway you can enter to win:

AGV AX-8 DS Helmet

They are having this contest for June and for July.

Ride on,

Torch

CycleTrader.com Announces Custom Chopper Giveaway

2011-06-11T09:43:00.001-05:00

CycleTrader.com Announces Custom Chopper Giveaway

The nation’s leading powersports marketplace celebrates the launch of its free Place an Ad service with inaugural social media contest

Norfolk, VA – June 10, 2011 – CycleTrader.com, a division of Dominion Enterprises, and Hardcore Choppers have partnered to award one lucky winner with a brand new custom chopper. The CycleTrader’UP contest celebrates the one-month anniversary of CycleTrader’s new free classified listing service. The chopper was designed and built by Hardcore Choppers in Sterling, Virginia.

Riders can visit Cycle Trader’s Facebook page to upload a photo of their current motorcycle, and then comment why they deserve a new custom chopper in 140 characters or less. Entries will be accepted until August 22, 2011. The public will be able to vote for their favorite entries through September 5, 2011. The entry with the most votes will be selected as the grand prize winner.

“With the initial success of our free Place an Ad service launched earlier this month, we anticipate this contest will continue to highlight our industry-leading classified sites to motorcycle owners across the country,” said Scott Spears, Director of Private Party Advertising.

Along with the grand prize giveaway of a custom chopper, there will be prizes for runner-up winners. Second-prize winners will receive a Galaxy helmet; third-prize winners will receive $100 gift cards from MotorcycleSuperstore.com; and fourth-prize winners will receive a Cycle Trader prize pack, including a Top of the Line classified listing & assorted promotional items.
Since the launch of its new private seller packages, there are more than 8,250 private seller listings on CycleTrader.com. Each free listing includes four photos and remains online for two weeks. Available upgrades include more photos, extended listings for up to 12 weeks, and video and premium visibility on the website.

Motorcycle riders can visit http://facebook.com/cycletrader to enter the contest, preview other entries and watch videos of the custom bike built by Hardcore Choppers.

About CycleTrader.comCycle Trader, a division of Dominion Enterprises, is the leading powersports marketplace connecting buyers and sellers to new and used motorcycles, ATVs, PWCs, and snowmobiles. With more than 150,000 vehicles available, Cycle Trader offers the widest selection of powersports vehicles online. Visit http://www.CycleTrader.com.

About Dominion Enterprises
Dominion Enterprises is a leading marketing services company serving the automotive, enthusiast and commercial vehicle, real estate, apartment rental, and employment industries. The company's businesses provide a comprehensive suite of technology-based marketing solutions including Internet advertising, lead generation, CRM, Web site design and hosting, and data management services. The company has more than 40 market-leading Web sites reaching more than 17.6 million unique visitors monthly, and more than 280 magazines with a weekly circulation of 2.4 million. Headquartered in Norfolk, Va., the company has 4,900 employees in more than 186 offices nationwide. For more information, visit http://www.dominionenterprises.com.

Media Contact:
Fred Rose
(757) 351-7068 fred.rose@cycletrader.com
###

Midlife Motorcycle Madness $25.00 J&P Cycles Gift Card Contest

2011-05-31T18:00:00.001-05:00

Midlife Motorcycle Madness has teamed up with J&P Cycles to bring it's readers a $25.00 Gift Card Contest.

Caption this photo and get a chance to win a $25.00 Gift Card from J&P Cycles:

Contest time frame: June 1-8, 2011

Prizes: J&P Cycles will provide a $25 gift card for the winner.

Contest Rules and Regulations:

Contestants enter to win by leaving a comment captioning the provided photo and then stating what they will buy to upgrade their bike with using the $25.00 gift card. You may make the comment as short or as long as needed. All entries will be judged by me on humor, wittiness and creativity. After the contest ends I will read and judge all entries and post the winner. The winner can email me their contact information to provide to J&P Cycles. J&P Cycles will issue the $25.00 Gift Card to the Winner.

Remember, it is a two part entry comment, the photo caption and what the $25.00 gift card will be used for.

Be sure & support our sponsor by shopping at J&P Cycles:

J&P Cycles

Harley Parts

Ride on & Good Luck!
Torch

MeanStreet Riders

2011-05-22T11:11:00.001-05:00

You have probably already read several motorcycle blogs talking about the MeanStreet Riders. Yes, there is a new band two wheelin’ onto the music scene and their making sparks and soon to be rising up the charts. The MeanStreet Riders, whose members are made up of motorcycle riders, enjoy making music about all aspects of riding.

MeanStreet Mary, the bands Social Media Publicist, contacted me and asked if I would be interested in listening to a pre-release demo of their up and coming new album being released June first. I love music so I jumped at the opportunity. The CD arrived in the mail in a few days.

You can read how the band was formed and their bios on their websites see the links at the end of this article. I would like to take the time here to talk about their music.

You cannot pigeonhole there music into one safe genre or make a comparison to one other single popular band. The closest I could come up with to maybe compare them to would be the Eagles. Some of the songs have a definite Classic Rock style & sound and others have a more Modern Country or Americana type sound. You can hear all kinds of instruments in the MeanStreet Riders music from electric guitars to banjo. The vocals are solid with lots of harmony.

It’s hard to put the feelings of riding into words, let alone song, but the MeanStreet Riders manage to pull it off. The first song on the CD, High on the Hog, starts off with a Classic Rock style guitar riff that propels the song to the finish like a hard twist of the throttle. I’m reminded of .38 Special while listening to the lyrics about living the good life and enjoying life and friends as well as the ride to the fullest. The song ends with a snort that left me laughing.

The MeanStreet Riders second song, Kiss it all Goodbye, is my favorite. It has a real catchy chorus and I found myself humming it later on my ride down to Bikers Bay to get the state inspection done on my bike. They have managed to bottle the feelings and emotions of wanting to leave your troubles behind and just ride. You know the feeling. Like when you are on your commute to work on a beautiful day and when you are getting closer to your exit you just want to hit the throttle and drive on by and keep on going. Maybe one of these days….

The third track, 129, is about hitting the road and seeking out the twisties while leaving your troubles and cares behind. It has another addictive chorus and is specifically about Deals Gap, a section of US129 in Tennessee nicknamed the Dragons Tail. You may not have three hundred and eighteen curves in eleven miles near your house but listening to this song definitely catches the spirit of riding the curves, draggin’ the pegs and pushing the limits. There are no chicken strips on this tune.

I’ve had a good ride, track number four, captures the mood of riders everywhere after the ride is over and the kickstand is put down. It ain’t all about if you get their fast, the lyric sys it all. The song itself is not slow by any means but the inclusion of the banjo almost gives the illusion of a lazy day ride out in the country. At the conclusion of every ride I hope everyone can say, “I’ve had a good ride.”

Track five, Rollin’ On, slows down the pace a little. Rollin’ on stats off on a relaxed note with Kansas (the band) like violins and Indians chanting hauntingly. The vocal and musical harmonies seem the blend together nicely on this tune. There is something also real earthy about the sound of a guitar players fingers sliding down an acoustic guitars strings. This song is also about leaving behind your troubles and pain and rolling down the open road to clear your mind.

A Modern Country hit is what track six sounds like. Titled Where I was Born, it reminded me a little of Keith Urban. It’s all about exploring the country side freely on two wheels remembering the past and proclaiming allegiance to your roots. Musically it is very polished and sounds great like the lope of a fine v-twin.

Picking up the pace a little, Livin’ it Up is track seven on the up and coming CD by MeanStreet Riders. With some smooth guitar and the addition of some brass and some synth, this song has a unique sound all its own. The dreamy lyrics are about several different riders and rides and living it up.

Number eight, Long Road of Love, is a slow melodic love song. The love of the road can be compared to the love of a woman. Fun, exciting, thrilling, mysterious, curvy, and dangerous can be used to describe both. If you love the road and have another companion in your life that you love, you will enjoy this song.

Eye of the Hurricane is a number nine on the demo CD. It is about the love of speed and the consequences and dangers of the addiction. When life is in turmoil all around, you can find peace at speed on your bike, in the eye of the hurricane. The driving guitar chords mates well with the driving lyrics of the song carrying the listener to the somber story ending.

The last song on the MeanStreet Riders CD is the rocking Souls of Chrome. It’s about the long road of life and the fact that even when alone you are not by yourself. On the open road you are surrounded by the ones who have gone before you. This song has a driving drum beat and cool guitar licks with some nice vocal harmony thrown in for good measure. This tune is definitely one you will have to keep an eye on your speedometer when listening to it.

MeanStreet Riders music is made by riders, is all about riding, for riders to enjoy. However, you don’t have to be a biker or even a motorcycle rider to enjoy the sounds of the MeanStreet Riders. There is a good musical mix on the demo CD with something for every musical taste. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for some new and interesting music to listen too. So, don’t walk, don’t run, ride out and get your own copy on the first.

Links:

http://www.meanstreetriders.com/index.html

http://meanstreetriders.wordpress.com/

http://www.myspace.com/meanstreetriders

http://airplaydirect.com/music/meanstreetriders/

Ride on,

Torch