Things to consider BEFORE you start your bike for the first time this Spring

Read this before you hit that button!

It's been a long, cold, brutal Winter this year. Now that it's early February some signs of Spring are just beginning. The sun sets later and later each day and when it shines, its much stronger and does a great job of melting that horrible white stuff. You should have already had your bike stored on a Battery Tender and fuel stabilizer run through your fuel system. Starting your bike and running it every week or every couple of weeks is a great way of making sure when you are ready to ride it starts up without any trouble. Unfortunately because of the deep snow many folks were not able to even get to their bikes never mind start them up and let them run for a while. If this is the case, then there are a few things to do BEFORE you hit that starter button this Spring.

First check your air filter for a mouse nest. I know its a pain to get to your air filter, but trust me, if your bike has been the Winter home of mice, you want to find out before you suck their nest into your carburetor. It's a good idea to check anyway so you can make a note to order a new one if yours is plugged with dirt.

Next look inside the exhaust pipes for signs of mice. Here in New England we have mice, chipmunks and squirrels that love to find cozy places make homes for the Winter. Exhaust pipes are perfect spots to hide their nuts, seeds, and i have even seen dog and cat food stored in them by those pesty critters!  Again, you want to find that stuff before you start your bike, not after.

Now Check the oil. Yes i know you don't see any oil puddles under your bike, but humor me and check your oil BEFORE you start your bike. I have seen it before, some people have drained your oil and forgotten to refill it before putting it up for the Winter. Or maybe it did leak out and somebody cleaned it up. Maybe somebody hates you and drained your oil on you to play a horrible joke. Either way, please check your oil before you start it. Starting an engine without oil or very low on oil will result in catastrophic engine failure. At least bend down and look in that little sight glass for me will ya!

Now that you have made sure the coast is clear of all Winter squatters, and the motor oil is at the proper level ,you can safely start your bike and let it run on idle until it comes up to temperature. NEVER, EVER sit there and rev your engine when it is first started to "clear it out". When i hear somebody doing that i want to scream! Engine parts must come up to the proper engine temperature before you can rev the engine. If you don't let it warm up properly you can run the risk of severe engine damage.

Now the only other thing you should do is check your tire pressure before you ride your bike. They will naturally loose air pressure sitting there. You don't want to ride on them soft. It's bad for the tires and bad for the bikes handling.

Come on Spring!

Winter Project Update

Our Winter project bike is coming together nicely.  To recap, we started out with a 1997 Yamaha YZ125 that had a blown engine and had been left abandoned outside for several years.  We started out by completely disassembling the bike down to the last nut and bolt. The frame was sent off to be repainted ( Lexus silver ). While that was off we rebuilt the shock linkage and swing arm pivot with Moose Racing bearing kits. Linkage lubrication is done with Bel-Ray Assemble Lube. NOTHING works better for keeping the linkage working properly. The steering head bearings were replaced. Both front and rear wheel bearing have been replaced. As well as tires, IRC Heavy Duty racing tubes and rim locks. Both Brake calipers and master cylinders have been rebuilt using Moose Racing rebuild kits. Reassembly has begun with the swing arm back on the frame and both suspension units ( front fork & rear shock ) are back on for mock up. They will be gone through before final assembly. UFO plastics replace the weathered stock parts.  UFO plastics fit just like OEM parts and hold up better.  A new UFO Chain slider and rear chain guide wear block along with new chain rollers are installed. The Stock aluminum rear sprocket

was replaced with a longer lasting and stronger JT Racing steel sprocket for off-road racing. The stock wheel had one rim lock installed, but a second one was added for extra flat prevention and to help hold the tire on the rim in the event of a flat.  IMS foot pegs replace the stockers for additional rider comfort.

As each system and part is carefully reassembled, lubed and adjusted, everything is tested for proper operation. Insuring that when this bike is ready for racing it will be better then a brand new bike off the showroom floor.

Special attention is being paid to handlebar and brush guard selection for rider comfort and durability. Answer Protaper Contour bars are being used for strength as well as Answer Protaper grips.  A new front tire along with IRC Heavy Duty racing tube is installed. Extra special attention has been paid to the front brakes. New EBC pads and EBC brake fluids help increase stopping power along with proper servicing and adjustment of the front caliper alignment.  Paying special attention to the small details is what makes the difference between an average bike and one that has been set up for racing.

Assembly of the remaining body work, seat foam, seat cover and graphics can proceed as the engine is being serviced. Last time we showed the how crank assembly was finished. We installed a new rod assembly and bearing.  Now we have the cylinder out being re-chromed as the lower end is being reassembled. New crank bearings , crank seals, engine gaskets and seals are being used in the reassembly process of the YZ125 engine continues.

Next time -

-Final engine reassembly

-Systems check and adjustment

-Carburetor and Exhaust

Distracted Drivers Beware

I think everyone that rides a motorcycle can appreciate this sticker.

Winter Racer Rebuild - Save Money & Make Your Old Bike Better Than A New One!

Stripped to the frame, cleaned, repainted and then the reassembly process begins. Attention to every detail. Making sure all the moving parts get proper adjustment, lubrication and are working perfectly. Suspension units are serviced, lubed and adjusted for the racers style, weight and ability.



Properly working suspension will make your bike preform like it was supposed to.  Most often over looked because it is a messy, time consuming job. Most people's suspension is working like crap! Taking the time to service yours will put you one up on the competition. This shows how dry and non-responsive rear shock linkage can get when not properly serviced. You should be cleaning and regreasing your suspension linkage two to three times a year. DON'T wait until it "squeeks" before servicing it!



A complete engine tear down and inspection. New Crank bearings and seals, Transmission gears and bearings are inspected. Never reuse crank bearings and seals or gaskets.



Crankshafts can be rebuilt for less then half the price of a new assembly. On small displacement bikes replacing the connection rod, and lower bearing and pin is a must. 



Rebuild the cylinder don't replace it unless absolutely necessary.  If you are rebuilding it, have it replated NOT sleeved. Modern motorcycle engines have plated cylinders. The engine is engineered to run properly with a plated cylinder. Sleeving it will change how it runs dramatically, and not for the better. Do it right, replate it.  Replace the piston, don't try to reuse high wear parts like pistons and rings. Good mechanics replace worn parts. If your bike is worth fixing, it's worth fixing right.  Always use new gaskets.  There is an old saying...there is no such thing as bad parts, only bad mechanics.

That's it for now. Taking the time to rebuild you bike correctly will make it perform better then someone that takes a brand new bike off the showroom floor and just races it.  Next time we'll talk about how to make this freshened up racer look as good as it performs.





Duro High Durability Off-Road Tires

Duro introduces a new line of affordable, high durability, off-road tires. The Excelerators! If your looking for a tire that not only performs well on a wide verity of terrain but also out lasts along time, then this is the one to choose. Available in many popular sizes of 18", 19" and 21". Prices starting at $54.95 A great value and perfect choice for tough New England conditions that would chew up most other tires on the market. Log on to see more. www.kevinscycleracing.com

Great For Winter Storage!

S100 MOTORCYCLE CORROSION PROTECTANT  No matter how clean you keep your bike, you always have to be on the lookout for that dreaded “enemy number one”, corrosion.  Unless you live in the desert, humidity, salt air, spring road salt and plain old pollution threaten your bike’s “precious metals”.  That’s why S100 developed Motorcycle  Corrosion Protectant.  Just spray on a clean, dry bike (or into a cloth) and rub into the areas you want to protect, those sensitive areas like fork tubes, chrome exhaust pipes, case covers and wheels (and don’t forget those hidden areas you can’t reach.).  You’ll find that S100 Motorcycle Corrosion Protectant won’t rub off easily in the rain and so its protection really lasts.  It even dramatically out-performed a famous so called “corrosion fighter”, so this is really the way to protect your investment! "Daytona Beach Salt Spray Tested!" Important note: This is the perfect product for winter lay up and long term storage. Spray directly on all sensitive areas and allow to dry. 7.2 oz can. $9.95  http://www.kevinscycleracing.com/crbikecare.htm

EK 420SH Gold - Premier Quality Mini Racing Chain

Introducing the new 420SH EK Racing Chain. Premier Quality and Performance for Minis. Manufactured in Japan to the highest possible standards. Mini riders can get the same EK Chain quality as the pros. With solid bushings and rollers, high-strength heat treating and remarkably light weight, the 420SH  provide outstanding performance and remarkable value. Tensile strength: 5200 lbs. for 420SH. When your serious about racing, this is the chain to use.



EK 420SH Gold Premier Quality Racing Chain

E-Gift Certificates

Motorcyclists are last minute gift shoppers. It happens every year. They wait until the week before Christmas and then they start their shopping. Unfortunately waiting that late can sometimes leave you with few choices. Now you last minute gift buyers can have a Kevin's Cycle E-Gift Certificate emailed directly to the person your buying a gift for.  Using our secure order form, fill in the persons name, email address and the amount you want to give. Provide us your billing information and we will take care of the rest. The e-gift certificate will be instantly emailed to them. They can redeem their gift certificate on-line, by phone, or they can print it out and bring it to our store. If you would prefer to order an E-Gift Certificate by phone, just call our toll-free line, 800-654-4998 and we'll be happy to help you. E-Gift Certificates make getting that special person, exactly what they need or want, quick and easy. www.kevinscycleracing.com

Winter Maintenance

Winter in the best time of the year for doing those maintenance jobs you may have put off when the temperature was warmer. One job everyone hates doing is suspension linkage maintenance. Because the manufactures do not put grease fittings on linkage parts, your only option is to disassemble your linkage and swing arm pivot, clean and re-grease and reassemble. If you do it right in the Winter you should be able to ride all season long without worry. It is a time consuming job and it is messy, but it will save you money. Before you begin do a physical inspection of your suspension components. Place the bike on a lift stand or milk crate. Grab the real wheel and life up. If you hear or feel any "clunking" or movement, then your linkage bearings are worn out and they must be replaced. If it feels and sounds tight, then just a cleaning and re-greasing is needed. If you need to replace any linkage, we carry a complete line of high quality performance suspension rebuild parts in stock and can save you allot of money over the OEM parts. While your at it, pick up a can of Bel-Ray assemble lube. This is THE BEST lubricant for hi-stress suspension components.  A little goes a long way.  NEVER , ever use anti-seize as a lubricant. In spite of what your buddy at the nuclear power plant says. Even if he can get you 5 gallon buckets of the stuff free. Many anti seize compounds have components that can wear out bearings. They are designed for keeping threads from rusting, not bearing lubrication.  Bel-Ray assembly lube is water proof, and will not wash out or break down with heat. In all the years of rebuilding motorcycle suspension, it's the BEST stuff we have found. If you use it in the Winter when your doing your suspension maintenance, you should not have to touch it again until the next Winter....It's THAT good!

Kold Kutter Ice Racing Screws

It's that time of the year again. Now is the time to build your Winter tires. Weather your building ice racing tires for track use or your building a "poor man's" studded off-road tire, we can help you out. We carry the 3/8" long for ATV's. 1/2" & 5/8" for Dirtbikes and the New Wicked aggressive "Kanadian" 1" Kold Kutters. Check with us for all your tire building needs. Screws, magnetic bit drivers, glue, and tires. We have over 25 years off Winter tire building experience.



Kold Kutters available in 3/8", 1/2" & 5/8"

 

"Kanadian" Kold Kutters in 1" size.

Helmets don't have to be expensive to be safe and comfortable!

GMAX GM46X HELMET Lightweight design. Industry leading 17 vents! Maximum air flow is achieved thru shell/styro and comfort liner vents. Removable washable interior allows for adjustable fit and comfort that is second to none. Special styro shaped ear pockets and comfort liner for maximum comfort. New fully adjustable, vented visor designed for maximum vision. Large eye port allows large goggles and better vision. Padded chin strap with retention snap secures excess chin strap. New high flow removable mouth vent with washable filter. EPS in the chinbar for added safety. Vented roost deflector. D.O.T. APPROVED. Colors: Orange, Black, Red, Blue, Yellow, Green, Escape (Flat Black), Pink. Sizes S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL $79.95

I think everyone should have a Metal Mulisha Christmas!

Happy Thanksgiving

Wishing everyone a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving. We are open Wednesday 11/24 from 10am - 8pm. Closed On Thanksgiving day. We are open special Black Friday hours on Friday 11/26 from 8am - 8pm. Open Saturday 11/27 from 10am-5pm. Closed Sunday.

PSTR Short Course Round #6 Rehoboth, MA

Congratz to Tylor Doherty on his 2nd place finish Sunday at the PSTR Short Course HS.

Studded Motorcycle Tires 101

Deep snow spikes

Today i want to talk about the proper riding technique needed to get the most out of your studded tires.  The first consideration is what is the best type of studded tire for your bike, and riding conditions. If your riding is done mostly on rocky trails like we have here in New England. Or the average snow depth in your area is between 6" to 8", then your best choice is the slightly shorter "Rocky Trail Studs". They provide excellent traction on ice and snow, but will hold up much better over time. On the other hand, if your average snow depth is in excess of 8", then the "Deep Snow Spikes" will provide the most traction and because of the deep snow cover they will not be as adversely effected by rocky conditions. Most racers use the slightly shorty studs because they prefer the better handling characteristics they provide.



Rocky Trail Studs

After choosing which studs will best suite your riding conditions now you need to properly choose the right size for your bike. Keep in mind that the studs will add to the over all height and width of your tire. This is especially true of the Deep Snow Spikes. On most stock motorcycles the extra size won't effect fitment as long as you do not go up in size from the OEM stock tire size. In most cases, if your bike came with a 110/100x18 tire, then that is the proper size studded tire to choose. Installing a larger then stock studded tire may cause problems with the studs rubbing your air box mudflap or silencer/muffler. Mounting studded tires is straight forward.  Wearing leather gloves while mounting studded tires will help protect your hands from those carbide studs. The proper air pressure is also critical. In most instances set your air pressure at 15psi. This will allow the studs to bite in better.  Keep in mind the lower the outside air temperature is, the softer your tires feel.  It is recommended you check the air pressure often in the Winter.

Studded tires are a big investment. But with a few changes in your riding technique, you can help extend the life of your studded tires and get the best performance out of your motorcycle in Winter conditions. Getting 3 or 4 years out of a rear tire and as much as 4 or 5 years out of a front tire is possible. The single most beneficial thing you can do, to extend the life of off-road studded tires, is to use them only when you have to. If the snow cover melts away and the trails turn to mud, take them off and save them until it freeze up again.  Don't get lazy in the Spring and leave them on for one more ride. Changing your riding technique can also help your studded tires last longer. Avoid as much wheel spin as possible ( this is most important on small displacement motorcycles where the common riding technique is to fan the clutch  and keep the motor reving high ). Excessive wheel spin will dramatically reduce the life of any studded tire. Use the torque of your motor and ride with as much momentum as possible. Think "smooth" and adopt a smooth riding style. Any expert or old timer will tell you, that a smooth rider is a fast rider.  Avoid bare ground and bare rocks. Seek out snow and ice patches on the trail and let the studs do their job. Studs dont bite into rocks. Don't brake slide in corners. Sliding the studded tires will rip studs out if you hit exposed rocks deep in ruts. Use engine braking and the bikes brakes efficiently to control your speed. Ride with a more up-right style. Try to avoid "railing" the corners. Squaring off the corners and keeping the bike upright helps keep more of the studs biting into the frozen ground, snow or ice. By adapting your riding style to the conditions and the studded tires on your bike, you will get many years of use out of them.

Dual sport Studs

Dual sport studded tires are designed much like studded auto tires. They are only to be used in States that allow studded tires on public roads during Winter months. They are less aggressive then off-road studs. They are designed as a traction aid. Most of the tires traction still comes from the rubber contact with the road. As with off road tires, use them only when road conditions allow. Using them all year will shorten the tires usable life. You should take the time to familiarize yourself with the handling characteristics of your motorcycle when you are using studded tires. Find a parking lot and do some experimenting with accelerating and braking. Spending a little time BEFORE you head out on public roads will make riding much safer.

Well there you have it. That's most likely more then you ever wanted to know about studded motorcycle tires. I have over 25 years of experience building and riding with studded tires so i have learned a trick or two in my day. I hope this information can help you choose the right studded tires for your bike and to get the most out of your investment in them. Feel free to call our toll-free number 800-654-4998 if you would like to talk about studded tires for your specific motorcycle. Or visit our website anytime. www.kevinscycleracing.com

The fine print, disclamer, and I told you so part:

WARNING!!  STUDDED OR SPIKED TIRES WILL NOT KEEP YOU FROM FALLING OR CRASHING WHILE RIDING IN SNOW OR ON ICE. THEY WILL NOT KEEP YOU FROM BEING INJURED IN THE EVENT OF A FALL ON SNOW AND ICE. IF YOU ARE UNSURE AS TO HOW TO INSTALL STUDDED TIRES, TAKE THEM TO A QUALIFIED MECHANIC. INSTALLING STUDDED AND SPIKED TIRES IS DANGEROUS AND SPECIAL SAFETY PRECAUTIONS SHOULD BE TAKEN TO AVOID INJURY.

RIDE WITHIN YOUR CAPABILITIES....... BECAUSE STUPID HURTS.

Website Updated Daily

Our new and improved website Catalog is updated all the time. If you have any questions that can't be answered on-line, please feel free to call our toll-free number 800-654-4998 We have an old school bike shop, not just a computer terminal in some office. When in the Norton, MA area, stop in and check out our huge inventory. .kevinscycleracing.com

Get Ready For Black Friday

Get ready for Black Friday with - Extended store hours - Doors open at 8am!

FREE Choko rain gloves with every rain gear purchase.

Vega goggles on SALE $9.95

Free IRC HD tube with every off-road tire purchase.

Free Boot socks with purchase of MX boots.

Free Sunglass bag with every pair of sunglasses.

Black Friday 11/26/2010 Only.Black Friday Specials good In-Store, OnLine, or By Phone. Log on to www.kevinscycleracing.com

Rain Gear 10% Off This Month.

Don't forget all Rain Gear is 10% off this month. Now is a great time to give your Biker a new set of rain gear.

Monster Energy Drink Decal Kits

Now in-stock FX Monster Energy Drink decal kits. $14.95
www.kevinscycleracing.com

Holiday Gift Certificates

Don't forget we have Holiday Gift Certificates! Buying a gift for your favorite Biker or Racer just got allot easier. Gift certificates always fit and never go out of style. Available in any denomination they can be redeemed in-store, on-line or by phone. Log on our website or give us a call and we can even mail them directly to you or the person you want to give a gift to. www.kevinscycleracing.com or call 800-654-4998