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Choosing which handlebars you install on your bike can be challenging but fun. Handlebars affect your comfort and the look and handling of your bike, and understanding each type of handlebar will help you make an informed decision you’ll be happy with.
Image to the left of Ape Hangers taken from Hill Country Customs.
Ape Hangers are used on choppers, and they stand tall over the bike. Your arms reach up to grab them, and then rest wide and above your chest or head, which is why they’re called ape hangers. Ape hangers up to 20 inches are available, but some states have height restrictions. South Carolina does not regulate handlebar height.
Clip-ons are two short handles that attach to the fork tube with a clip, unlike one-piece handlebars that attach with a bar to the triple tree. They are adjustable and popular on sport bikes.
Clubman handlebars slant down and toward you, keeping your hands and arms close to your body. Riders choose these handlebars when they’re looking for an old-school look.
Image to the right of Drag Bars taken from Hills Country Customs.
Drag bars connect to the triple tree and are straight across or have a slight backward slope toward the rider for a forward, aerodynamic riding position.
Standard cruisers slant toward the rider, and are the stock handlebars on many Japanese and Harley-Davidson bikes. Designed for comfort, these long handlebars allow you to sit upright and are height adjustable.
Z-bars angle sharply and appear to be backward Zs meeting. The rise varies in height, and some Z-bars are also ape hangers.
If you’re not sure which type suits you, try sitting on your bike in the most comfortable position for your back. Position your arms in their most comfortable position, and have someone measure the height and width of your hands relative to the bike. Then take the measurements into a bike dealer and test handlebars until you find the ones you like.
Whether you have the handlebars installed or do them yourself, double check the installation to make sure it’s secure. It’s also a good idea to keep an eye on handlebar and motorcycle manufacturer recalls. One of the biggest issues Ladson and Ravenel motorcycle accident attorneys deal with is incorrectly installed handlebars.
If you’ve customized your handlebars, which did you choose and why?
Motorcycle recalls beginning in June 2011 are listed below. Manufacturers will notify owners of affected bikes, but if you have not been notified, or if you’re not sure whether your motorcycle is on the recall list, customer service numbers are listed.
Image to the left of a 2011 KTM 450 EXC, taken from KTM.com.
KTM / Husaberg
KTM has recalled over 1,200 KTM and Husaberg motorcycles manufactured from November 2009 through November 2010. Some handlebar clamps were not heat treated correctly, and they can develop cracks that allow the handlebars to move unexpectedly, causing loss of control or a collision.
The following KTM and Husaberg models are affected:
- 2011 Husaberg FS 570
- 2011 Husaberg FE 570S
- 2011 KTM 450 and 530 EXC
- 2010-2011 KTM / 690 ENDURO R
The recall began in June 2011, and owners can contact KTM Customer Service at 1-888-985-6090. Any authorized KTM dealer can replace the defective clamps free of charge.
For more information, contact KTM directly, or click here.
Honda
Honda has recalled over 3,000 model year 2010 and 2011 motorcycles for defective bank angle sensors that could give incorrect readings and cause engine stalling. Affected models include VT750 Shadow and Phantom motorcycles built from June 2009 to March 2011.
Honda will replace defective bank angle sensors, and owners may contact Honda Motorcycle Customer Service at 1-866-784-1870. Reference Honda Safety Recall #R80.
For more information, click here.
Victory
Because of incorrect machining on handlebar risers and clamps, Victory has recalled over 800 Cross Country motorcycles produced from January through April 2011. Polaris, owner of Victory, says the handlebars may slip, causing loss of control.
The recall began in June 2011, and Victory dealers will test and replace the handlebar assemblies of affected motorcycles free of charge. For more information, owners may contact Victory Customer Service at 1-888-704-5290 or click here.
Owners of affected motorcycles, or those with questions about any past or present manufacturer recall, can contact the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s Vehicle Safety Hotline at 1-888-327-4236 (TTY 1-800-424-9153), or visit the NHTSA’s website at safercar.gov.
If you love antique motorcycles like myself, then you’re going to love this video! Filmed in 1918, the video illustrates Harley motorcycle daredevils performing exciting and dangerous stunts. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.
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Charleston loves to celebrate the 4th of July with plenty of fireworks. What could be a more perfect celebration of our independence than spending the day on the beach with friends and family followed by spectacular island fireworks?
Independence Day events happening in and around Charleston:
Patriot’s Point 4th of July Celebration: America’s National Carrier Aviation Museum draws tens of thousands every July 4 to listen to live bands, eat plenty of good food, and of course, watch the incredible fireworks display launched from the deck of the Yorktown. For 2011, Patriots Point has spent more than ever before on fireworks, so this year’s celebration will top them all. Admission is free for the fireworks, entertainment, and much-loved Kidz Zone.
Directions: Take I-26 to downtown Charleston, turn on Highway 17 North, go across the Cooper River Bridge, and follow the signs to Patriots Point.
Summerville’s Red, White, and Blue on the Green: Downtown Summerville comes alive with its Red, White, and Blue on the Green on Saturday, July 3. Hosted by Summerville D.R.E.A.M. (Downtown Restoration, Enhancement, and Management), the festival includes a dunk tank, face painting, crafts, and for $3, unlimited games. Bad Moon Band will play, and all the usual food vendors will be selling their delicious dishes.
The highlight of the festival is the much-anticipated Uncle Sam and Miss Liberty Costume Contest and non-motorized parade around Hutchinson Square. Everyone joins in with their wagons, bicycles, carriages, kids, animals . . . all decorated to celebrate the 4th of July. Prizes include Best in Show, Uncle Sam, Miss Liberty, and Best Decorated Pet.
For more information, please call the Summerville D.R.E.A.M. office at 843-821-7260.
Directions: Take 1-26 West to Highway 17 South for about 4.5 miles to Hutchinson Square, the center of town.
Folly Beach 4th of July Celebration: Enjoy an amazing fireworks display at Folly Beach at dark. Make it an all-day celebration and fish off the Edwin S. Taylor Fishing Pier, swim or stroll along the beach, or enjoy a delicious meal in one of our restaurants.
Directions: Take I-26 to downtown Charleston and turn on Highway 17 South to Highway 161 (Folly Road). Go to the end of Folly Road (about 15 minutes) to the beach.
What will you be doing for the Fourth of July?
Whether you’re in Charleston, South Carolina, within driving distance, or halfway across the country, you don’t want to miss out on the upcoming Charleston Bike Fest! From May 13, 2011 through May 15, 2011, the Charleston Bike Fest will be in full swing, featuring scenic rides through the glorious lowcountry. Rides will take motorcyclists through some of Charleston’s charming neighboring towns and coastline. The Charleston Bike Fest will also feature a variety of bike shows around the Charleston area, as well as bands, DJs, and much more!
If you’ve never been to Charleston, this is definitely the perfect time to come visit. The weather is absolutely perfect for rides—it’s my favorite time of year since there’s still a breeze and the temperature is in the high 70s / low 80s. When you partake in some of the rides through Charleston, you’ll enjoy historical and cultural insight into the area and pass through picturesque scenery with canopying live oaks, drizzled with Spanish moss. You’ll also have the opportunity to mingle with other bikers from across the country—one of the best perks about events such as this one.
When you’re not riding or partaking in festivities, enjoy some of Charleston’s attractions, including Sullivan’s Island beaches, Belle Hall Plantation, Fort Sumter, and more. At nighttime, enjoy great southern food, drinks, and music around downtown Charleston and visit some of the Charleston Bike Fest vendors that will be around the entire area.
For more information about the event, contact 843.514.4433.
Custom motorcycles have increased dramatically in popularity, enabling motorcycle lovers to utilize their creativity and express their passion for riding. We found a few crazy motorcycles on the Internet that we’d love to share with you all–perhaps to spark some creativity for your custom bike vision . . .
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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Are you looking for a new and exciting way to experience the road? The Can-Am Roadster might be just the vehicle you’re looking for. With a three-wheel stance and sleek body, the Can-Am Roadster is one of the most unique vehicles on the road.
Learn more about the Can-Am Roadster in the video below:
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Enrolling in motorcycle school is one of the best ways to become a better and safer motorcycle rider. Not only does motorcycle school help you to become proficient in new-found skills, but it also helps you to feel more confident in any type of environment—whether you’re traveling through a big city or obstacle track.
Many motorcycle schools offer a range of classes for different skill levels, helping riders get the most beneficial instruction for their money.
A great motorcycle school will teach beginners how to observe the road and surroundings around them, body positioning techniques, coordination strategies, traction skills, safety tips for various settings, and steering, handling, and shifting techniques.
What many beginner riders might not realize is that riding a motorcycle is a whole different game than operating a motor vehicle. You have to deal with drivers who may not always be courteous or aware of your presence and there are different laws and rights while operating a motorcycle. Not to mention, there are several safety factors riders must take into account while operating a motorcycle, including head and body protection, weather conditions, traction, and time of day.
Honing your motorcycle skills is one of the best ways to decrease your chances of being involved in a motorcycle accident and preventing personal injury.
Have you ever attended motorcycle school? If so, what did you think of it?
Some of my favorite rides happen right here in the Lowcountry. I love the landscapes and the relaxing atmosphere of the countryside and coastline. But there are times when I have to venture into urban areas, which has an effect on my mindset and driving. My mind is no longer clear and calm. Instead, I’m highly attentive to my surroundings and always on high alert with the hustle and bustle of big city life.
When you’re driving into the city on your motorcycle for the first time, it’s important to make a proper transition in your mindset and know primary safety tips to prevent you from being involved in a motorcycle accident.
Below are a few tips for riding in the city:
Keep your distance: One of the best ways to avoid a motorcycle accident is by keeping a safe distance from other drivers. I usually stay a good 20 – 30 feet behind any vehicle to ensure that I have enough time to stop without causing the person behind me to ram into me.
Look out ahead: I always keep my eye on the vehicles in front of me (not just the vehicle immediately in front of me). Often times, the vehicle in front of you might not see that the traffic ahead has stopped and will slam on his or her breaks. This, in turn, requires you to slam on your breaks. To prevent this from occurring, always keep an eye on the first two vehicles in front of you. If you see the first vehicle breaking, you can start to tap your break to anticipate a stop before you have to screech to a halt.
Stand out: Many motorcycle accidents occur when drivers either don’t see a motorcyclist or do not understand a motorcyclist’s right of way. To prevent this, always wear bright colors, don’t drive in a vehicle’s blind-spot (if possible), and be extremely cautious when a vehicle is in close range. If you have the right of way, don’t just assume the driver knows this. Keep an eye out, go slow, and be ready to break or swerve.
And my final piece of advice is to be aware of all your surroundings, looking out for any potential hazards or signs that another driver might not be paying attention.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a South Carolina motorcycle accident, contact the Uricchio Law Firm to speak with one of our personal injury attorneys.
Valentino Rossi was the first to embark on a series of laps aboard the new Ducati Desmosedici GP12, scheduled to enter the market next year. It’s a beautiful bike when it’s not running, but as soon as the engine roars and it hugs the inner track, it becomes even more stunning.
To read the article on Valentino’s ride, click here.
See the video below, which features Valentino Rossi on his first ride of the Ducati:
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