fbpx

Law Abiding Biker Podcast

Motorcycle Biker Podcast, Videos, & Blogs

LAB-247-Long Distance Street Motorcycle Riding-Tips, Tricks, & Experience

By 2 Comments

Podcast: Play in new window | Download | Embed

Subscribe: Apple Podcasts | RSS

long distance street motorcycle

In this episode, we discuss long distance street motorcycle riding and everything that surrounds it. Long distance riding is such a broad subject, so Squid and I keep it narrowly focused on our experiences over the years and what works and what doesn't work. Squid and I have both tested a bunch of street motorcycle riding gear over time. Some of it worked and other gear now sits on a shelf in a pile of “what did not work so well.”

SUPPORT US AND SHOP IN THE OFFICIAL LAW ABIDING BIKER STORE

We talk motorcycle riding gear such as jackets, pants, helmets, gloves, riding shoes, and heated gear. We also discuss other emergency roadside repair items we carry or have personally used.

For the most part, neither Squid nor I use leather anymore. Yes, we used to ride with leather as we knew no better. Then we started discovering all the progressive motorcycle riding gear that is lighter, waterproof, heated, and actually provides more protection than leather for our type of riding. If you still ride with all leather, then more power to you. Ride on!

CHECK OUT OUR HUNDREDS OF FREE HELPFUL VIDEOS ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL AND SUBSCRIBE!

In this episode, we also talk about motorcycle trip planning and the use of the Harley-Davidson Boom Box Infotainment System for such. Make sure to check out our entire Harley Boom Box Infotainment Infotainment System Video Tutorial Series!

You'll want to listen in to this entire podcast episode to get all the details.

Support us!

Below are affiliate links to many of the items discussed in this episode. No additional cost to you, but if you click through and make a purchase we get a small commission. Some of the links are direct to the Law Abiding Biker Store.

Long Distance Street Motorcycle Riding Gear Mentioned:

Heated Riding Gear Mentioned:

Emergency Motorcycle Roadside Repair Items in the Law Abiding Biker Store:

New Free Video Mentioned: 

Sponsor-Ciro 3D

  • CLICK HERE!
  • Innovative products for Harley-Davidson & Goldwing
  • Affordable chrome, lighting, and comfort products
  • Ciro 3D has a passion for design and innovation

Sponsor-RickRak

  • CLICK HERE
  • The Ultimate Motorcycle Luggage Rack Solution
  • Forget those messy straps and bungee cords
  • Go strapless with a RickRak quick attach luggage system & quality bag

New Patrons:

  • Thanks to all our new Patron Members!

Patreon Biker Motorcycle Podcast

If you appreciate the content we put out and want to make sure it keeps on coming your way then become a Patron too! There are benefits and there is no risk.

Donate Biker Podcast Button

Thanks to the following bikers for supporting us via a flat donation:

  • Frank Simms
  • Cary Baker of Northridge, CA
  • Lynn Santosuosso of Barrington, NH

Join the Free Email Club!

If you appreciate this free information make sure to join the thousands of law abiding bikers that have already joined the free Email Club! You will be notified of new useful motorcycle content and techniques as we put them out. Join the Community now!

New Harley CEO Jochen Zeitz Making Emergency Changes! Sales Plummeting!!

By 56 Comments

Harley CEO Jochen Zeitz

Harley Bronx Streetfighter

So, with plummeting sales and COVID-19, new Harley CEO Jochen Zeitz has been making some major changes within the company. Zeitz recently said, “a total rewire is necessary to make Harley-Davidson a high-performance company.” (see video below)

Harley-Davidson recently announced they will not be releasing the Bronx Streetfighter as promised later this year. Remember, this was the street racer style bike that was supposed to have the new liquid-cooled Revolution Max engine with 117 HP and 70 pound-foot of torque. Harley says the Streetfighter won't release next year either and won't comment on whether the Streetfighter will ever be released at this point. 

Harley Pan America Adventure Touring

Harley says its immediate new product focus in 2021 will be on the launch of the Pan America, Harley's first Adventure Touring motorcycle and I’m actually very curious about this bike, as I also love adventure riding. But, I’ve said it before; If this bike is overpriced like the Livewire was when it was released, it will likely be a flop.

Many also speculate that the Street 500 and 750 models may also be at risk of being axed after dealers reported not being given the lightweight models following poor sales performance. However, Harley will not actually comment regarding the status of other models.

For those of you wondering-yes the new high-Performance Custom Model is still planned for 2021 and still listed on Harley’s website.

Harley High-Performance Custom Model

Harley continues to struggle here in 2020 and there are reports that 50 dealerships have closed or are in the process of closing and that “significantly more” will shut their doors this year. In July Harley announced a five-year strategic plan after the COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a $92 million loss in the three months through June, with motorcycle sales plummeting 27%. This new overhaul includes vast changes to Harley’s operating model, updated motorcycles, newproducts, and a focus on accessories and general merchandise.

Further, the company will focus on 50 key markets, mostly in North America and Europe, and is working on plans to exit areas that are unprofitable.  All these changes are projected to save the company $250 million this year and $100 million annually thereafter.

Harley also says a new marketing campaign focusing on the “unrelenting spirit” of Harley will include a collaboration with actor Jason Momoa. 

Video-How to Remove Stock Harley Fork Reflectors & Gas Tank Logos-DIY

By Leave a Comment

Video-In this video we show you how to easily remove those stock reflectors that come on all new Harley-Davidson motorcycles. They put these reflectors right on the sides of the forks. Understand, we are not personally recommending the removal of these factory reflectors, as they do provide an element of safety and visibility from a side profile. We are simply showing you how to remove them, but you need to understand the hazards of removing them and make your own decision.  

We show you an awesome trick to get these stock reflectors off in seconds without causing any damage to the forks. It will be as if they were never there. The same trick we show you on removing the reflectors can also be used to remove those stuck on Harley-Davidson logos on your fuel tank. Some like a cleaner look and want those logos off the fuel tank. 

After you remove the reflectors you'll need a bottle of our awesome Bugslide Waterless Motorcycle Cleaner to remove any build up or dirt marks around and behind where the reflectors or logos were. Buglside is our #1 go to waterless motorcycle cleaner here at Law Abiding Biker™ Media. Buglside is also trusted by Law Enforcement Motorcycle Officers around the world to clean their work bikes!

CHECK OUT OUR OFFICIAL STORE AND SUPPORT US!

 

 

SUPPORT US AND CHECK OUT OUR AWESOME MOTORCYCLE TUTORIAL VIDEOS!

 

CHECK OUT OUR HUNDREDS OF FREE HELPFUL VIDEOS ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL AND SUBSCRIBE!

 

Join the Free Email Club!

If you appreciate this free information make sure to join the thousands of law abiding bikers that have already joined the free Email Club! You will be notified of new useful motorcycle content and techniques as we put them out. Join the Community now!

Sturgis 2020 Attendance Only Slightly Down Despite COVID-19

By 2 Comments

Sturgis 2020 AttendanceWith COVID-19 keeping some bikers from attending the 80th Anniversary of Sturgis, it clearly didn't stop most. The SD Department of Transportation released attendance numbers based on traffic counts, which may surprise some who predicted low attendance numbers of only 250,000. (see video below)

The city of Sturgis uses traffic counts as part of its formula to calculate attendance each year. Other pieces include the amount of garbage removed over 24 days, as well as a formula that divides the downtown into sections to determine crowd sizes.

SUPPORT US AND SHOP IN THE OFFICIAL LAW ABIDING BIKER STORE

From August 7 through 16, 2020, a total of 462,182 people attended the event according to traffic counts from nine entry points. That’s about 37,000 fewer than last year’s 499,654, or a 7.5% decrease. It was an anniversary year for the Sturgis event and I think it's fair to say the numbers would have been much higher if COVID-19 was not in play. Attendance numbers on anniversary years are usually much higher. So, the 2020 event attendance numbers more closely reflect a standard event year. 

Early reports from vendors show increased spending from attendees for 2020, although final numbers aren’t available yet. Fewer attendees for 2020 were in the 60 to 70 age range, which is the age group that has been most vulnerable to COVID-19.

CHECK OUT OUR HUNDREDS OF FREE HELPFUL VIDEOS ON OUR YOUTUBE CHANNEL AND SUBSCRIBE!

I personally spoke with many different vendors at the event who all reported to me that spending form attendees was up and they were very pleased. Several went on to say that their sales figures were even better than during the 2019 Sturgis event. This means that although attendance was slightly down, the bikers that did attend were willing to spend money. This is all great news for the economy of Sturgis and surrounding areas that heavily rely on income from the event. 

Other Information Released:

The Highway Patrol report of non-injury crashes was up slightly in 2020, with 50 crashes reported. In 2019, a total of 41 occurred. Crashes involving injuries were also up slightly, with 56 reported for 2020 over 52 in 2019. Fatal crashes doubled for 2020, with 4 crashes and 5 fatalities; in 2019, there were 2 crashes and 2 fatalities in total.  

DUI arrests were down slightly for 2020, with 145 total arrests. For 2019, that number was 171 by the conclusion of the rally. Misdemeanor drug arrests were up, at 241; in 2019, that number was 213. Felony drug arrests were down slightly, at 126; the total for 2019 was 131. Total citations were most closely matched of all, with 1,334 issued for 2020 compared with 1,336 in 2019. Cash seizures were way up for 2020, with a total of $18,763; in 2019, police only seized $4,044 according to official reports. 

Join the Free Email Club!

If you appreciate this free information make sure to join the thousands of law abiding bikers that have already joined the free Email Club! You will be notified of new useful motorcycle content and techniques as we put them out. Join the Community now!

Install Tusk Pannier Racks on a 2008 & Newer Kawasaki KLR 650-Tutorial Video

By Leave a Comment

Tusk Panniers for KLRIn this video, I show you how to install Tusk Pannier Racks and Tusk Panniers on a 2018 Kawasaki KLR 650. The procedures will be the same for 2008 & newer KLR's. These racks and panniers are also available for 1987-2007 KLR's. You can also choose from medium or large size and they come in silver or black. I went with the large size and I figure if you're going to add these to your KLR then just go big and get the extra storage room.  I also added Tusk Pannier Handles and Tusk Pannier Box Liners. The Tusk Panniers are available for many other makes and models of adventure and dual-sport motorcycles. 

Adding panniers to your KLR is a necessity if you are going to ride long distances or go beyond a simple day trip. The KLR has zero storage until you add something like this. There are additional storage options you can add such as a backpack and tank bag. I recently reviewed the Wolfman Blackhawk Adventure Tank Bag. 

I have been riding with these Tusk Panniers for KLR's and really like them. I like that the build quality is solid, yet they are very affordable compared to some other options on the market. These panniers are secure with locks included on the latches along with an inside pannier safety bolt. With the lids locked and pannier bolt in place, they cannot be removed from your KLR or other brand adventure motorcycle. 

The Tusk Aluminum Pannier Boxes are designed and manufactured to handle the most extreme adventure motorcycling. These panniers are loaded with features to offer unbeatable value! They are made from durable yet lightweight aluminum with a tough silver or black powder-coated finish.

Not only do these Tusk Panniers for KLR look great, but they prevent the items you store from getting the black residue produced when rubbed against unfinished aluminum. Unique design eliminates seams on the back two vertical edges (weak spots on other panniers), and all existing welded seams are reinforced with internal stitch welds. For security and convenience, the boxes come complete with 4 (2 on each box) matched locks and keys already assembled on the latches! A rubber gasket at the top of the box ensures the lid is tight and waterproof.

Each lid comes complete with 4 bolt-on footman loops to secure additional items. Each Large box is 37 Liters and measures 15 ½” tall, 9 ¼” deep, and 18″ wide. The Medium boxes are 27 Liters each and measure 14 ¼” tall, 7 ½” deep, and 16 ¼” wide. This is a complete kit with all the mounting hardware to outfit your bike for the next adventure.

Features of Tusk Pannier Racks & Panniers:

  • Complete kit with a pair of Aluminum Panniers and Pannier Racks with all the hardware for mounting.
  • Durable aluminum panniers that offer an unbeatable value for adventure motorcycling.
  • Powder-coated finish looks great and protects items from unfinished aluminum “blacking”.
  • Seamless rear vertical edge design and reinforced welding ensures strength.
  • Complete with 4 (2 on each box) matched locks and keys assembled on the latches.
  • Aluminum lid is completely waterproof and features 4 bolt-on footman loops to secure additional items.
  • Each Large Box is 37 Liters and measures 15 ½” tall, 9 ¼ deep, and 18″ wide. A pair of boxes gives you 74 Liters of storage. Large box opening measures 16 ½” Wide x 7 ¾” Deep.
  • Each Medium Box is 27 Liters and measures 14 ¼” tall, 7 ½” deep, and 16 ¼” wide. A pair of boxes gives you 54 Liters of storage. Medium box opening measures 14 ¾” wide x 6″ Deep.
  • Aluminum is .085″ thick and each Large pannier weighs a little over 11 lbs., while each Medium pannier weighs just under 9.5 lbs.
  • Pannier racks feature cable operated Quick Release pins.
  • Durable Powder-coated steel construction.

Get Tusk Panniers, Racks, Handles, & Liners in the Law Abiding Biker Store!

 

Join the Free Email Club!

If you appreciate this free information make sure to join the thousands of law abiding bikers that have already joined the free Email Club! You will be notified of new useful motorcycle content and techniques as we put them out. Join the Community now!

Best Stainless Steel Saddlebag Safety Bolts and Extended Seat Bolts for Harley

By Leave a Comment

The Rickrak solution for Harley saddlebag safety looks great on your bike and offers superior heavy-duty Stainless Steel Safety. As recommended by the manufacturer and H-D, please make sure to check them regularly for proper tightness.

How securely attached are your Harley saddlebags? There are many true stories of saddlebags coming off while going down the road! 2016 and prior Harley models use a vulnerable 1/4 turn pin attachment system that had recalls. On 2017 and on models H-D tried to correct the issue with a ratcheting mechanism with a handle that is bulky and clumsy to use. The long handle on that mechanism catches clothing and items as you try to remove them from the saddlebag. They just take up room and get in the way, unlike the sleek Rickrak saddlebag safety bolts. 

seat bolt for harleyRickRak's Extended Seat Bolt for Harley-Davidson Motorcycles makes the seat bolt more accessible for models with trunks. Made from top-quality Stainless steel, the Extended Seat Bolt offers 1/4×20 threads and a knurled handle for an easy grip.

There is also a shorter Rickrak seat bolt for the models without a trunk. Get rid of that stock seat screw and move into something quality like these. It's much easier to get to and you don't need tools. 

Join the Free Email Club!

If you appreciate this free information make sure to join the thousands of law abiding bikers that have already joined the free Email Club! You will be notified of new useful motorcycle content and techniques as we put them out. Join the Community now!

New Motorcycle Riding Gear I’m Testing-Sturgis Bound!!

By Leave a Comment

motorcycle riding gearIn this video, I go over some awesome new progressive motorcycle riding gear I personally selected that I will be testing on our ride to and while we're at Sturgis 2020.  Riding gear has come along way since I first started riding many years ago and I love testing and reviewing it for the biker community.

I want to thank the team at Revzilla for sending me this latest batch of riding gear for testing and review. I have been given the gear at no cost but am not being paid for the testing and reviews and there are no strings attached to what I say. As always I will give you my honest opinions with both the pros and the cons.

I will be reviewing each item individually after my thorough testing and those videos will release on the Law Abiding Biker YouTube Channel. Make sure you're subscribed to the channel so you are notified when those and other videos release!

Please support us and consider purchasing any of the riding gear items we mentioned through our Revzilla Affiliate Link Here or through any of the riding gear links below. There's no additional cost to you but if you click through and make a purchase we get a small commission. It helps support our efforts to help, educate, entertain, and inspire as many bikers as we can worldwide.

Gear I'm Testing (affiliate links below)

Gear Lurch is Testing (affiliate links below)

Join the Free Email Club!

If you appreciate this free information make sure to join the thousands of law abiding bikers that have already joined the free Email Club! You will be notified of new useful motorcycle content and techniques as we put them out. Join the Community now!

Helping and connecting as many bikers as we can worldwide!

Ryan Urlacher | Owner/Founder

Biker, Podcaster, Filmmaker, Blogger, & Entrepreneur.

Get Connected!

Sponsorship & Affiliate