Many assume their new bike is ready to ride as delivered from the factory to the showroom floor. Then, to increase performance most riders focus on adding power, but do little to actually tune their suspension. Motorcycle manufacturers commonly build bikes using a “one size fits all” approach. But you can often significantly transform a bike’s ability to perform, as well as improve safety, by making a few simple adjustments to the suspension and geometry.
Overlooking your sleeping bag and sleeping mat is a common mistake to new motorcycle campers. However, it’s an essential component to a successful and comfortable weekend. Your sleeping bag should keep you warm, while your sleeping mat keeps you comfortable. They work in conjunction with each another, and each component is equally important.
The science of riding a motorcycle is intrinsically linked to the art of safely identifying and managing risks. The more skilled we become in the proper techniques of riding by learning and practicing good riding habits, the more we can safely enjoy this sport. As we ride, we continually scan ahead (as well from side to side and behind us) to assess our riding conditions, identify potential risks (curve up ahead, oncoming traffic, entering side road, rock or rut in our path, deer or pedestrian at the side of the road, vehicle closely following us, etc.), and then appropriately respond by minimizing the risk or eliminating it when possible.
By Ryan William Cantrell Motorcycle camping can be one of the most enjoyably addicting actives in which to engage (in a good way). Having the ability to camp off your bike provides you with an ability to go farther from… Read More »Motorcycle Camping – Tents
When I joined the IAMC about 7 or 8 years ago, I was a brand new rider. I knew nothing about riding, nothing about packing for a ride, bike maintenance, planning a ride, or what gear to wear. I do remember that there were club members like Tim Bernard, Ed Hyatt, Sam Stone, Ryan William Cantrel, just to name a few, who were unbelievable resources for guys like me.
As an adventure motorcycle club, we are IAMC indebted to Ed Hiatt for founding IAMC and serving as its president from 2009 to January 2014, and to Ed’s family (Terry, Heath and Heather) for their significant contributions and support since its inception in 2009. At our annual IAMC meeting held on January 31 of this year, we elected new club officers. This article will provide an opportunity for you to learn a little more about the officers of our club.
During the 2014 calendar year, 30 club members signed up to participate in the 2014 IAMC Challenge, and19 participated by visiting at least one or more of the 45 sites. This past year the Challenge sites comprised mainly fire lookouts with some interesting water falls and lakes thrown in for variety. There were actually 42 fixed physical sites to visit with two others that were variable (picture of your bike in the snow and a water crossing).