The ancestor of the motorcycle is the humble bicycle. The first bicycles in the early 1800s were made of wood, and riders literally walked them along—good exercise, but not a fast mode of transportation. Bicycles weren’t chain-driven until the late 1860s, and the first steam-powered bicycle, the velocipede, was patented in 1866.

Powering cycles with something other than human power had already occurred to some inventors, and through the 1800s, they came up with dozens of cycles with two, three, and four wheels powered by gas and steam. By the end of the century, motorized tricycles were common, but some areas enforced speed limits and other restrictions.

As with many “firsts” in technology, there is some debate about who built the first motorcycle. Inventors mentioned in the discussion include Sylvester Roper and his steam-powered bike, Michaux with a single-cylinder bike, Lucius Copeland and his three-wheeled steamer, and Daimler and Maybach with the Reitwagen, powered by an internal combustion engine.

An early motorcycle from Royal Enfield had a 239 cc front-mounted engine that powered a belt to the rear wheel. While early motorcycles tended to be two-stroke, the four-stroke engine soon replaced it. After the breakthrough combustion engine, it was possible to mass produce motorcycles, and The Hildebrand & Wolfmuller made its debut in 1894. Companies such as Triumph, Indian, and Harley-Davidson soon followed.

Once motorcycles were mass-produced, technological advances occurred regularly. Tires, engines, and transmissions continued to evolve, and the motorcycle lost the old moto-bicycle look and morphed into the design we recognize today.

Motorcycles soared in popularity during the first decade of the 20^th century. By the time World War I began, motorcycle manufacturers were building thousands of bikes a year, and soldiers used them regularly during the war.

While the Great Depression affected motorcycle companies, advances and leaps in technology continued, with engines becoming larger and more powerful. Body designs were streamlined, and in the ‘40s and ‘50s, more companies entered the market, such as Honda, Kawasaki, and Yamaha.

Through the rest of the century to the present, manufacturers have focused on continuously upgrading the bike as a whole. Advances have included diesel engines, wind protection, antilock brakes, left-side gear change, and aesthetic improvements such as metallic paint and neon kits. Motorcycles are now safe, speedy, and comfortable.

As Sullivan’s Island motorcycle accident attorneys who also ride, we’re fascinated by the history of motorcycle technology. What’s your favorite point in motorcycle history? 

Finding holiday gifts for bikers isn’t always easy if you don’t ride yourself. As South Carolina motorcycle accident attorneys who also ride, we have some great ideas for you from Motorcycle Superstore.

Helmets

Bell Revolver Helmet

This sleek, lightweight helmet comes in a variety of colors and has a button to move the chin bar, in addition to a sunshade and ventilation system. With a five-year warranty, an aerodynamic design, and an antifog and antiscratch shield, this helmet will quickly become a favorite.

Image above of the Bell Revolver Helmet, taken from Motorcycle-Superstore.com.

HJC IS-33 Helmet

This helmet is a bit more rounded in design than the Bell helmet and has a large eye port for expanded visibility. It’s adjustable, and SilverCool™ technology allows heat and moisture to flow out of the helmet.

Protective Gear

Speed and Strength Hell ‘n Back Jacket

With a water-resistant frame and waterproof liner, this protective jacket is the one you want on misty days. Thermoplastic shoulder protectors and C.E. approved elbow protectors make this jacket a good choice for riding anywhere. Fully adjustable for every rider, the Hell ‘n Back jacket has controlled ventilation and hydration systems.

Image above of the Speed and Strength Hell ‘n Back Jacket, taken from Motorcycle-Superstore.com.

Tour Master Venture Pants

These lightweight pants have a Carbolex shell with polyester knee panels for the ultimate in comfort and strength. The exterior is waterproof yet breathable, and the seat reduces slipping while the accordion panels at the waist and knees increase flexibility. Reflective materials and piping increase visibility at night.

Miscellaneous gear and stocking stuffers

MotoCentric Mototrek Sport Saddlebags

These easy-to-mount saddlebags are roomy and functional and pair perfectly with other MotoCentric Mototrek bags. With quick-opening zippers, scratch resistant pads, rain covers, carrying handles, and a lifetime warranty, your biker will love these saddlebags.

River Road Taos Cold Weather Gloves

All leather, waterproof gloves protect the hands from rain, cold, wind, and abrasion. With Thinsulate™ insulation for warmth and a rubber shield wiper on the left glove, these are the perfect gift for any biker.

Image above of River Road Taos Cold Weather Gloves, taken from Motorcycle-Superstore.com.

Schampa Warmskin Balaclava

With flat seams to prevent pressure lines, this balaclava gives a skintight fit while wicking moisture from the face, keeping the user warm and dry. It can be used alone or with any type of helmet.

What’s the best biker gift you’ve ever received?

Has he or she taken manufacturer training?

If your mechanic has trained with Harley or Honda, he or she should be a good choice for your Harley or Honda bike. Typically, mechanics who are committed to their careers seek out manufacturer or other specialized training to keep up their skills, and they take new or refresher training regularly. If your mechanic has never taken any, or it’s been 20 years since he or she has, maybe it’s time to look elsewhere.

With that said, motorcycle dealerships don’t always employ the best mechanics. Yes, the dealership is a good place to start when looking for a mechanic, but don’t assume that every dealership mechanic is a good one. In addition, you’ll typically pay more to a dealership than you will to an independent shop or self-employed mechanic.

How much experience does he or she have?

Of course, every seasoned mechanic was a new mechanic at some point. If you choose to work with a less-experienced mechanic, ensure that he or she has access to more experienced mechanics in case of problems.

How professional is your mechanic?

Do you receive estimates (preferably written), and is the final bill approximately the same? When the mechanic actually does the work, he or she may find other issues. When that happens, he or she should contact you for permission to continue with the new work. Communication is a key trait for good mechanics, no matter what they repair.

Are the repairs completed promptly, and do you receive an itemized bill? If not, perhaps it’s time to start looking. Professional mechanics will also show you defective parts and keep your bike as clean as possible.

Does he or she have references and liability insurance?

Any good mechanic should be able to provide references. Liability insurance protects you in case the bike is damaged while being repaired.

Do you like him or her?

If you don’t like your mechanic, take that as a sign and move on. You don’t have to be best friends, but you do need to feel respected as the client. Your mechanic should be open to answering questions and giving you advice about keeping your bike in top mechanical shape. The best mechanics are glad to talk shop with you and believe part of their job is to educate and inform.

As South Carolina motorcycle accident lawyers who ride, we’ve seen our share of good and not-so-good mechanics. Do you have any tips for those who are seeking their perfect mechanic?

See below for bizarre bikes:

Image above taken from www.Just-Whatever.com.

Image above taken from www.SoothBrush.com.

Image above taken from Andyw-inuk.

Image above taken from TheSmokingTire.com.

Image above taken from OhioRiders.net.

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The holidays are a time to spend with family and friends; however, they are also a season of giving. This season, why not get all your holiday shopping done on the internet? You can find anything you want for anyone on your list within minutes. The internet also provides you the luxury of not having to deal with crowded shops, pushy salespeople or gift wrapping. No clue about what to get someone? Two minutes on google or yahoo, and you will have thousands of ideas. For instance, don’t give the biker in your life another boring tie for the holidays—check out some of the awesome alternatives that we found by using the net:

Below is a Beer Bags PVC Motorcycle Saddle Bag Set (image taken from FindGift.com), which you can purchase at FindGift.com:

Image taken from FindGift.com

Below is a Harley-Davidson Oil Can Pint Glass Gift Set (image taken from FindGift.com), which you can purchase at FindGift.com:

Image taken from FindGift.com

Below are Red Baron Motorcycle Goggles (image taken from Amazon.com), which you can purchase at Amazon.com.

Image taken from Amazon.com

Below is an Embroidered Toilet Seat (image taken from Steelthundercc.com), which you can purchase at Steelthundercc.com.

Image taken from at steelthundercc.com

Below is an All Weather Protection for Your Bike (image taken from Steelthundercc.com), which you can purchase at Steelthundercc.com.

Image taken from steelthundercc.com

What’s on your motorcycle wish list this year?

Image taken from ThinkBeaufort.com

**Image to the left taken from ThinkBeaufort.com.

Great motorcycle rides in South Carolina can be found within its two main regions of scenery. The lower part of the state (to the east and southeast of Columbia) is the Lowcountry. This region is mostly flat, with numerous farms, some marsh areas, and areas out to the coast where there are many bay inlets. The Upstate region (west and northwest of Columbia) hosts the Piedmont where thick forest-covered foothills, picturesque rivers, and waterfalls can be found.

Here are some of South Carolina’s most popular motorcycle rides:

South Carolina Highway 28–Tri-State Tour

Starting in Walhalla, SC, this 30 mile run crosses three states (SC, GA, and NC) and ends in picturesque Highlands, NC.  This ride has beautiful National Forest scenery- mountains, rivers and waterfalls – and travels through the both Sumter National Forest and Nantahala National Forest.  With plenty of tight curves as well as some long sweepers, this ride provides versatile terrain ideal for a fall ride.

Cherokee Foothills Scenic Highway

Considered one of the best motorcycle roads east of the Mississippi, Route 11 North from Gaffney will take you through breathtaking Cherokee Indian country with spectacular views of mountains, waterfalls, rivers, lakes, forests and wildlife.  The road offers plenty of twists and turns, climbs and dives, and are remote enough to make it really enjoyable.

South Carolina Highway 17–The ACE Basin

Highway 17 South between Charleston and Savannah travels through the scenic ACE Basin, where the Ashepoo, Combahee and South Edisto Rivers come together to create one of the largest undeveloped estuaries on the east coast of the United States.  Beautiful views of marshes and wetlands characterize this 60 mile drive.

We want to know—what’s your favorite ride?

Post written by Mandi, Uricchio Law Firm’s legal assistant

Lowcountry riders have the luxury of mild winters, generally free from freezing temperatures and cold weather hazards such as black-ice, but don’t underestimate the powerful effect that the wind can have on your ride.

Windchill can turn an enjoyable motorcycle ride into a highly uncomfortable one.

To protect yourself consider the following tips:

• Add a windshield to your motorcycle for the winter months.
• Wear a motorcycle helmet that provides some face and neck protection.
• Purchase motorcycle gloves with pre-curved fingers, which allow you to comfortably squeeze the throttle.

In the cold months, the best way to keep warm on your motorcycle ride is to be well-insulated. Try dressing in layers.  The bottom layer should always be some type of snug fitting thermal or fleece article of clothing.  Number of layers and types of fabrics will depend on the person and the outside temperature, but remember the layering should not affect your mobility.

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Mandi

Mandi's Bike

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My Harley to the End

“You wont ask me for much

Just a little of my time

To fix your aching joints

And fill your tanks with wine

To polish those rough edges

Keeping them looking new

Tighten up your spokes

Maybe a new paint job too.

Replace all your plugs,

Wire all your circuits

Bring out those fantastic colors

Painted without smudges

Take off those old rusty nuts

Shine up all those screws and such.

Replace your worn down tires

Works out to be quite a few hours

Of mental meditation

Decisions, contemplations

And some aggravations.

But all in all, I love you so

You take me places people don’t go.

You spend your time just hanging out

Waiting to take me all about

I could not ask for a better friend,

Me and my Harley to the end.”

-Kimberley A. Manning

And below is my motorcycle until the end!

While an overwhelming majority of us fill up our cars with E10 and have no problems, this alternative fuel can have a very different effect on motorcycles. For starters, it can seriously damage and corrode steel, aluminum and rubber parts in the fuel system.

Known to loosen sludge in fuel tanks, ethanol can clog fuel lines and filters and block carburetor jets and fuel injectors. Also, for those of us who aren’t able to get out on our bikes as much as we would like to, ethanol is known to attract water. If your bike is left with ethanol blend gasoline in the tank for a long period of time, I have been told that adding a stabilizer is essential. Otherwise condensation, particularly an issue in high humidity climates, can cause the ethanol and water to separate, leading to serious engine trouble.

A variety of fuel conversion kits are available to convert your motorcycle to run on E85, but I am hesitant to make the switch myself. The American Motorcycle Association is not yet convinced, either, and has questioned the lack of research proving that an increase in ethanol will not harm motorcycle engines and parts. For the time being, I plan to be ethanol free!

As a personal injury, criminal and workers compensation lawyer practicing across the South Carolina area, I find myself frequently fueling up. Below is a map I started, which identifies gas stations in the Charleston, Berkeley and Dorchester county areas that sell ethanol-free gas. Some of these stations may be limited on the type of ethanol-free fuel they offer.

There’s also a great post from the Post & Courier about Ethenol. Check it out here.

I plan to keep updating this map and welcome anyone to add to this list by posting a comment. To visit the map in your web browser, click here.