Category: Other

1. Essential Motorcycle Maintenance Tips Every Rider Should Know

   Posted on 9:00am Thursday 14th Sep 2023

   Motorcycles are more than just a mode of transportation; they're a passion, a lifestyle, and a source of exhilaration. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newbie on two wheels, one thing every motorcycle enthusiast must understand is the importance of proper maintenance. Regular maintenance not only ensures the safety of your ride but also extends the life of your bike. In this blog post, we'll explore essential motorcycle maintenance tips that every rider should know to keep their machines running smoothly.

   1. Oil Change and Filter Replacement

   Regular oil changes are the lifeblood of your motorcycle's engine. Engine oil lubricates the various moving parts, reducing friction and preventing wear and tear. It's crucial to follow your manufacturer's recommendations for oil change intervals, typically every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. Don't forget to replace the oil filter as well, as it helps keep contaminants out of the engine.

   2. Check and Maintain Tire Pressure

   Proper tire pressure is essential for safety and handling. Under-inflated tires can lead to poor grip, reduced fuel efficiency, and an increased risk of accidents. Over-inflated tires can result in a harsh ride and decreased traction. Invest in a quality tire pressure gauge, and check your tire pressure at least once a week. Refer to your motorcycle's manual for the recommended pressure levels.

   3. Inspect the Brakes

   Your brakes are your lifeline on the road. Regularly inspect the brake pads, rotors, and brake fluid levels. If you notice any signs of wear or reduced braking performance, it's time for maintenance or replacement. Ignoring brake issues can lead to dangerous situations on the road.

   4. Chain Maintenance

   For riders with chain-driven motorcycles, proper chain maintenance is crucial. Keep the chain clean and lubricated to reduce friction and prolong its life. A well-maintained chain not only ensures smoother acceleration but also minimises the risk of a snapped chain while riding.

   Motorcycles are more than just a mode of transportation; they're a passion, a lifestyle, and a source of exhilaration. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newbie on two wheels, one thing every motorcycle enthusiast must understand is the importance of proper maintenance. Regular maintenance not only ensures the safety of your ride but also extends the life of your bike. In this blog post, we'll explore essential motorcycle maintenance tips that every rider should know to keep their machines running smoothly.

   5. Lights and Electrical Systems

   Ensuring all lights and electrical components are in working order is essential for your safety on the road. Regularly check your headlights, taillights, turn signals, and horn. Replace any burnt-out bulbs promptly, and keep your bike's electrical system in top condition.

   6. Battery Care

   Dead batteries are a common issue for motorcycle riders, especially if the bike is not ridden frequently. To avoid a breakdown, keep your battery terminals clean, and use a trickle charger to maintain the charge during periods of inactivity. It's also a good practice to check the battery's fluid levels (if applicable) and replace the battery as needed.

   7. Suspension and Fork Maintenance

   Your motorcycle's suspension system plays a vital role in providing a comfortable and stable ride. Regularly inspect the fork seals and shocks for leaks and damage. Adjust the suspension settings to match your riding style and road conditions. Proper suspension maintenance can significantly enhance your riding experience.

   8. Air Filter Replacement

   A clean air filter ensures optimal air intake for the engine. Check your air filter regularly and replace it when it becomes clogged with dirt and debris. A clean air filter promotes better fuel efficiency and engine performance.

   9. Clean and Lubricate Cables

   Cables for the throttle, clutch, and brakes should be regularly cleaned and lubricated to maintain smooth operation. Frayed or damaged cables should be replaced promptly to prevent control issues while riding.

   10. Safety and Protective Gear

   Last but not least, remember to check and maintain your safety gear. Your helmet, gloves, riding jacket, and boots should be in good condition to provide maximum protection in case of an accident.

   Motorcycle maintenance is not just a responsibility; it's a commitment to safety, longevity, and the enjoyment of your ride. Regularly following these essential maintenance tips will keep your motorcycle in peak condition, ensuring you can continue to hit the open road with confidence. And while you're taking care of your bike, don't forget to take care of yourself too – always wear your safety gear and get started by comparing bike insurance quotes to ensure you have the right coverage in case of unexpected events.  

    

   article supplied

2. Indian Motorcycle Racing & Tyler O’Hara capture second-consecutive MotoAmerica Super Hooligan National Championship

   Posted on 12:00pm Wednesday 13th Sep 2023

   Enduring Bar-to-Bar Action, O’Hara Outlasts Teammate Jeremy McWilliams at Circuit of the Americas,
   Pilots S&S-Built Indian FTR to Second-Consecutive Championship

   It was a battle between brothers – each armed with their S&S-built Indian FTR Hooligan race bike. Entering the final round of MotoAmerica’s Mission SuperHooligan National Championship (SHNC) at Circuit of the Americas (COTA), dead-locked at 106 total points, Indian Motorcycle Racing’s Tyler O’Hara and Jeremy McWilliams endured bar-to-bar action, each pushing to the bitter end to earn the opportunity to hoist the No. 1 plate and win the 2023 SHNC title.

   For the second consecutive season, it was O’Hara, as he outlasted McWilliams in dramatic fashion, taking both rounds at COTA, and winning five of the season’s eight races aboard his Mission® Foods S&S® Indian FTR.

   “Hats off to my entire S&S-Indian Motorcycle team, as the guys worked hard all season to keep this Indian FTR dialed in for me,” said O’Hara. “This FTR is an incredible machine. Power, handling, maneuverability – it’s been the highest-performing bike in the class all season, and we’re extremely proud to walk away with another title this season.”

   The SHNC final round at COTA was nothing short of exhilarating, as both O’Hara and McWilliams pushed their Indian FTRs in and out of corners, each making incredible passes on the other. Knowing their teammate’s moves and tendencies created an epic battle between two of the sport’s most capable riders. Race 1 at COTA ended with McWilliams high-siding in the final turn of the final lap. McWilliams was unharmed and was able to compete in Race 2 on Sunday. But again, it was O’Hara who captured the final win of the season.

   “The relationship between Tyler and Jeremy is truly special – they both thrive off each other’s expertise and experience, and both have an ‘anything it takes’ drive to win once aboard their FTR,” said Gary Gray, Vice President Racing, Service and Technology for Indian Motorcycle. “When you have a team as committed as our S&S crew, paired with the riders we have, you push every second of every day to win a championship. We’re excited to have reached our goal and look forward to running the No. 1 plate again on Tyler’s FTR next season.”

3. Ben launches suicide prevention campaign with new online support and training

   Posted on 12:00pm Tuesday 12th Sep 2023

   Ben, the automotive industry charity, has today launched a month-long campaign around suicide prevention, to raise awareness about this difficult topic and highlight that Ben is there for those struggling. As part of the campaign, new support and resources are now available on Ben’s website, as well as new online training.

   The charity has created a new section of its website dedicated to suicide prevention with information, advice and guidance for individuals at risk of suicide, for those worried about someone and also for employers.

   NEW suicide prevention support available at: www.ben.org.uk/suicideprevention  

   • Content and resources on the topic of suicide prevention
   • Downloadable resources and leaflets for individuals and employers
   • Contact details so people know where to turn to for further support
   • Information about relevant training and services for employers to support their employees
   • New real life story about Tracey, who lost her husband to suicide.

   According to ONS, in 2021, there were 6,567 deaths by suicide registered in the UK, with males aged between 45-49 as having the highest suicide rate in England and Wales1. A total of 126 people die by suicide in the UK every week, with around 74% of those being male2. 

   The automotive industry is male dominated (80% male, versus 20% female3) so there is potentially a greater risk and vulnerability to suicide than in other industries. Men often feel under pressure to not show signs of weakness and feel embarrassed to talk about their issues, so are less likely to seek help when struggling with their mental health. Sometimes, pride is a factor and men may think they can handle their problems on their own, or they worry about being a burden to others. Men are also more likely to respond to stress with risky behaviour such as abusing alcohol which increases the risk of suicide by up to eight times.

   Sadly, Ben has seen an increase in calls to its helpline for support around suicide over recent years. In 2022, Ben supported 303 individuals who disclosed they were experiencing suicidal ideation or intent. Around 7 employers each year call on the charity’s Urgent Response Service after an employee has taken their own life. 

   Employers have a role to play in reducing the stigma around male mental health and to provide relevant support to prevent suicide. From findings in Ben’s survey report 2023, 1 in 3 automotive workers reported having had issues managing their mental health, compared with 1 in 6 of the general UK working population.

   Relevant training and services
   In addition to providing support for individuals, Ben also works with automotive industry employers to provide the following training and services: 

   • NEW online Suicide Awareness and Prevention training
   • Suicide First Aid through Understanding Suicide Intervention (SFAUSI) course
   • Mental Health First Aid course which qualifies participants as Mental Health First Aiders
   • Managing Mental Health in the Workplace training 
   • Urgent response service which offers support for employers with critical incidents that affect employees, including support for suicide.

   Here is a recent testimonial about Ben’s new Suicide Awareness and Prevention training:
   
   “The suicide awareness course from Ben was a great source of knowledge on a sensitive subject for both those with no experience of dealing with these issues to those with prior training. It gave practical advice of the tools and support that can be utilised in these difficult situations.” - Nicola Fairley, Arnold Clark

   For more information on Ben’s training and services, email [email protected].  

   Rachel Clift, Health & Wellbeing Director at Ben, said: “Research and statistics should give us cause for concern in our industry, coupled with the fact we currently have more people than ever requesting support. This is why it’s crucial to raise awareness about loss of life through suicide, as it’s a difficult topic to broach. We want everyone in our industry to know that Ben is there for them and urge people to get in touch for support if they’re struggling or in crisis.

   “If you work, or have worked, in the automotive industry please get in touch now if you don't feel you can cope or if you’re at breaking point. You can contact our free and confidential helpline.”

   Ben is here for those who work, or have worked, in the automotive industry and their family dependents. Don't struggle alone, contact our helpline: 08081 311 333 or use our webchat at www.ben.org.uk. You can also access Ben’s out of hours text support line by texting BEN to 85258. 

    

   

4. H&H Classics auction Hurricane X-75 Prototype to National Motorcycle Museum

   Posted on 12:00pm Tuesday 29th Aug 2023

   • H&H Classics brokers the sale of the Hurricane X-75 'works prototype'.
   • Verified by the BSA Club as the authentic works’ prototype and sold to the National Motorcycle Museum for £27,000.
   • This historical motorcycle, once a long-time passion project for John Simmonds, now takes its rightful place among other significant vehicles in the museum.

   H&H Classics most recent classic motorcycle auction has resulted in the legendary Hurricane X-75 'works prototype' finding a new prestigious home at the National Motorcycle Museum. After being offered for sale at the iconic venue, the bike, which was sold by H&H Classics for a fantastic £27,000, is now being showcased as a key highlight of the museum’s exhibit.

   James Hewing, museum director at the National Motorcycle Museum, said, “In our quest to source the best vehicles for our collection, it's important that we partner with an auction house that consistently offers high-quality lots and impeccable service. H&H Classics has an enviable and longstanding reputation in the industry, and our recent acquisition of the Hurricane X-75 through them is a testament to that. The dedication and expertise of their team is unparalleled."

   This specific 1971 model stands apart as the only road worthy ‘BSA Vetter Rocket 3’. The BSA Owners’ Club Dating Certificate backs its authenticity, with evidence suggesting only two prototypes were ever handcrafted. A handwritten note by Mr A. G. Cave, the BSA Works Manager at Small Heath, and a feature in Classic Bike magazine, further corroborate its storied past and the dedicated endeavour of John Simmonds in preserving this piece of British motorcycling history.

   The iconic machine utilising a 750cc engine, is a product of Craig Vetter's visionary design. It is verified by the BSA Club as the genuine works’ prototype. The bike, under the dedicated stewardship of John Simmonds since 1982, had woven itself into the fabric of his life, becoming more than just a vehicle. With the sad passing of John Simmonds, the bike was seeking a new chapter, and what better home than a museum dedicated to protecting the legacy of iconic motorcycles.

   Craig Vetter’s design would ultimately define a new class of motorcycle: the cruiser. Vetter was commissioned to reimagine the BSA A75, and thus, the 'works prototype' was born. However, the journey from inception to realisation was fraught with hurdles and by 1973, the X-75 was phased out due to its inability to meet American noise standards.

   Interested visitors can explore this magnificent addition at the National Motorcycle Museum. For more details on this and other exhibits, please visit the National Motorcycle Museum.

   Meanwhile, those looking to add a classic scooter or motorcycle to their own collection can register to bid at H&H’s next motorcycle auction which takes place on 15 November at the National Motorcycle Museum in Solihull by visiting www.handh.co.uk.

5. The Triumph Factory Visitor Experience

   Posted on 12:00pm Monday 28th Aug 2023

   Explore our free exhibition at Hinckley and learn about Triumph's history as an iconic British Brand, from the very first prototype to our 1 millionth motorcycle. You'll be able to read all about our racing story, get up-close to well-known movie bikes and much more.

   Why not complete your visit with a Factory Tour where you'll be guided by one of our knowledgable Brand Ambassadors around the Home of Triumph, for an insight into the design, manufacturing and production processes that take our motorcycles from concept to creation.

   Book a tour