Tag Archives: motorcycle

Prevention Tips, Recreational

5 steps to deter motorcycle theft

Leave a comment

Summer is motorcycle riding season but also bike theft season. According to National Insurance Crime Bureau, of all thefts, less than half are recovered. The NICB study indicates there were 22,403 motorcycles recovered, a 42 percent recovery rate in 2020. Rick Drewry, our Senior Training Specialist for all-things Collector Car & Motorcycle, has several easy tips to help prevent your motorcycle from being stolen. 

  1. Lock it. Take the key out of the ignition which prevents your motorcycle from starting. Then lock the front fork lock, which will lock the front suspension. Locking the front suspension will push your bike in circles if someone tries to steal it. 
  2. Park under a well-lit area. If you stop for dinner while traveling, make sure your motorcycle is within sight. You could even ask for a window seat so you’re able to see your motorcycle.
  3. Trailer the motorcycle to your destination. Back the trailer up to a secure wall. If you have a ramp, the wall will keep it from opening up if someone tries to steal the motorcycle out of the trailer.
  4. Bring important documents. Keep your registration and insurance card in your purse or wallet, but not in the motorcycle. Keep your title at home.
  5. Keep track of accessories. Take photos or have a list of all your accessories in case there is a theft.

Don’t let motorcycle theft ruin your summer. Stay one step ahead with these tips to keep your two-wheeled beauty safe and sound.

For information only. Not applicable to all situations.

Sources:

https://www.nicb.org/news/news-releases/motorcycle-thefts-surge-30-percent-2020

Recreational

7 tire safety tips for a smooth ride

Leave a comment

“Where the rubber meets the road” is more than just an expression. Enjoyable and safe motorcycling is a partnership between how well your tires grip the road and your skill as a driver. Follow these 7 tire safety tips for a smooth ride:

  1. Start Off Slow: Ride slowly for a few miles to let the tires warm up before accelerating and cornering normally. This is especially important in the spring and fall when morning temperatures can be much cooler than in the afternoon.
  2. Road Conditions: An older road with a worn finish or one covered with leaves, water, or dirt gives less traction regardless of the tires’ condition. Use caution when driving on unmaintained roadways.
  3. Keep an Eye on Inflation: Overinflated tires have less road traction and amplify the effects of poor road conditions. Underinflated tires will make your motorcycle feel unstable. 
  4. Check Tire Pressure: Tire pressure should be checked weekly, if not before every ride. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s specs. A true pressure reading is especially important in hot and cold weather as temperatures could affect your tire pressure readings!
  5. Pressures May Vary: Tire pressure isn’t one-size fits all. The recommended tire pressure may be different if you’re carrying a passenger or cargo. Remember to factor in the weight of any added accessories such as a cargo bag or items packed in the saddlebags.
  6. Examine the Tires: Regularly check your tires’ wear, including wear bars and tread depth. Worn out tires can quickly lose traction. Plus, look for cuts, cracks, and embedded stones or nails which are cause for replacement.
  7. New Tires Beware: New tires can be slick! Take extra care until your tires are sufficiently broken in, which maximizes your traction.

Get to know your tires. Just like your helmet, they’re essential safety equipment!

For informational purposes only and may not be applicable to all situations.

Recreational

10 steps to secure your ride

Leave a comment

You wear a helmet and pay attention to the road while driving your motorcycle, but when it’s time to hop off for the day, how much care do you take to keep it protected? Severe weather, theft, and unkept sheds and garages can all threaten its well-being while it’s not being driven. Here are some ideas to keep your motorcycle safe and secure while it waits for the next adventure.

22102-MS-Securing-Your-MS-Tip-Sheet-112022_FA

Don’t keep this guide to yourself, share it on your social networks!

For informational purposes only and may not be applicable to all situations.

Recreational

How to fit a motorcycle helmet

Leave a comment

There’s no better feeling than hitting the open road on your motorcycle . . . unless your helmet isn’t properly fitted. Not only is a poorly fitted helmet uncomfortable, it won’t adequately protect you in the event of a crash. So grab your measuring tape and follow our guide to properly fit your motorcycle helmet.

22102-MS-How-To-Fit-MC-Helmet-112022_FA-1

Feel free to share this guide on your social networks.

For informational purposes only and may not be applicable to all situations.

Recreational

Is your motorcycle coverage a perfect fit?

Not all bikes are the same. Insurance isn’t all the same, either.
Picking good motorcycle insurance is more than just choosing between comp and collision or liability-only. Here are four questions to ask yourself about coverages and options before you switch to a new policy or renew your current one.

Continue reading →

Recreational

How to winterize your motorcycle in 7 simple steps

Cold temperatures are settling in, which means motorcycle riding season is coming to an end. Unless you live in the southwest or southern states, odds are you will be putting your ride in storage for the winter months. Unfortunately, simply keeping it covered is not enough.

Continue reading →

Recreational

What’s your bike type?

Leave a comment

In the market for a new bike? Bikes come in all shapes and styles, and there are plenty of options to choose from.  We’ve put together a guide outlining various bike styles and what they offer to help you make a decision. Follow along to decide which style is right for you.

10489-01-201603-WhatsYourBikeType-031616

Don’t forget to share this guide on social networks.

For information only. Not applicable to all situations.