Raider Powersports

Let’s get dirty …

“Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt,” said John Muir, a 19^th century farmer, inventor, sheepherder, naturalist, explorer, writer, and conservationist.

One of the biggest joys of riding an ATV through a forest is encountering a huge mud puddle and plowing right through it. It goes against every warning you ever heard from your mother to stay clean. On an ATV, dirt it is allowed and expected.

Once you’re done with your ride, you take off your dried and mucked up clothes and jump in the shower, as pristine as the day you were born. But what about your ATV?

If you are hard-pressed to tell what color your ATV actually is, begin with a pre-soak after the machine has cooled down. Spray your mud-caked machine with a heavy spray of water, then let it soak in. When it looks as though its thoroughly soaked, repeat. It may take a few rounds.

One of the easiest ways to blast all the mud off your machine is with a pressure washer. A gas-powered washer is best, but even an electric works better than a hose.

Once you get as much dirt off as possible, it’s time to take a soapy sponge or brush to it. There are 2 ways you can soap up your quad – with a high compression cleaner with a soap function or a plant-sprayer with 90% water and 10% soap solution - rinse well.

Afterwards, start your engine and let it run for a minute or two to ensure your engine will start up next time you go for a ride.

After the ATV is clean, dry it with soft, clean rags or simply take it out for a ride, allowing it to air-dry.  An air compressor can get water out of the tiniest of recesses.

Now that you’re clean and your ATV is clean, it’s time to take it out for another ride.

Hate working out? Well, if you ride a motorcycle, a new study finds you receive some of the same benefits of a light workout plus a decrease in the stress hormone cortisol.

A Harvey-Davidson-sponsored study conducted by three researchers at UCLA’s Semel Institute for Neuroscience and Human Behavior, took a test group of 50 healthy, experienced riders and asked them to ride a 22-mile predetermined route in normal. Riders’ brain activity and hormone levels were recorded before, during and after the ride.

The results aren’t too big of a surprise for those of us at here at Raider. Adrenalin and heart rate levels increase, and cortisol levels decrease. Other key findings include:

• Riding a motorcycle decreased hormonal biomarkers of stress by 28 percent
• On average, riding a motorcycle for 20 minutes increased participants’ heart rates by 11 percent and adrenaline levels by 27 percent - similar to light exercise
• Sensory-focus was enhanced while riding a motorcycle versus driving a car, an effect also observed in experienced meditators vs non-meditators
• Changes in study participants' brain activity while riding suggested an increase in alertness similar to drinking a cup of coffee 

"The research findings … identified helps explain what our riders have felt for the past 116 years – there's a vitality and heightened sensory experience that comes from the freedom of riding a motorcycle,” Heather Malenshek, Harley-Davidson's Senior Vice President of Marketing & Brand was quoted to say.

What do you get out of motorcycling? We’d love to hear from you.

One of the first rules of snowmobiling is to never head out on your own.

That rule rang true for a 9-year-old boy and his father who were out riding their snowmobiles in the Lake Tahoe backcountry.

On the way home, a twig jammed in the throttle of the father’s sled. As he moved to jump off the sled before running smack into a pine tree, his pant leg caught underneath it. He felt his leg snap.

His son rushed to dig out his father who had sunk deep into the powdery snow. With no food, water or cell phone service, the boy’s dad told him to instead climb back on his sled, follow the path back to where they began and find help.

This story had a happy ending, but others are not as fortunate. That’s why preparation is key, and it starts with the sled, itself.

Is the spark plug clean? Is the belt in good condition? Is the battery charged and working properly? Don’t think about taking the sled out if there is even an ounce of hesitation in your answers. 

According to outdoorhub.com, there are also a few essential items every snowmobiler needs to take along on a ride, beginning with a portable battery charger. If your sled battery or cell phone are running low - recharge.

Another recommendation is to have an emergency kit that includes a basic first aid kit, an emergency “space blanket,” a good tow / recovery strap and a flare. An LED rechargeable flashlight is also on the list. Something you might not think of is to always carry a shovel, especially if you prefer to ride on ungroomed trails.

When it comes to clothing, good boots, snow pants or bibs, a windproof coat, gloves and a helmet – ideally, electric - are a must to avoid hypothermia.

Every part of you must be covered – in more ways than one - to get the most enjoyment out of your ride and to stay safe.

If you have a winter survival story you’d like to share, drop us a line. We’d love to hear from you.

If you’re a fan of country music, you’ve likely heard the Rodney Atkins’ song “Watching You,” which speaks of the pivotal role parents play as the role models in their child’s life.

“I’ve been watching you, dad. Ain’t that cool?

I’m your buckaroo, I wanna be like you.”

As the owner of a helmet and apparel company, Fulmer Powersports’ focus is on safety – for you and your family. When it comes to power sports equipment – especially motorcycles, those little eyes are watching you.

Do you wear a helmet? Do dress appropriately? Do you follow the rules of the road? Do you expect them to if you take them for a ride? Do you have a full motorcycle license that allows you to carry passengers? The answers should all be yes.

Although there’s no age restriction on the age of passengers, kids under 18 are required by law to wear a federally approved helmet at all times while on the motorcycle. Their own accurately fitted helmet - not one that’s been sitting in the garage that’s way too big. Purchase a Snell- or DOT-approved helmet, and make sure it’s fastened correctly prior to a ride.

When it comes to apparel, choices are limited. The best-case-scenario would be letting them wear an extra-small women’s or men’s textile jacket with armor, if you can find one that fits. Children’s MX gloves and boots are also highly suggested.

Rather than using an old belt, motorcycle safety harnesses – that go between the child’s legs, over their shoulders and around their waist and attach to you – are recommended. Another good rule of thumb is to wait until your child can reach the foot pegs before they’re allowed to ride. Feet should remain on the footrests at all times.

Before heading out for a ride, children should be taught the rules of road. Firmly hanging onto you or the handholds, keeping their legs away from the bike’s mufflers to prevent burns, and giving your child a safety word to use if they are getting scared or feel as though they are falling off the bike.

In closing, always put safety first when riding with child passengers. Remember, they’re watching you.

Rocks and mud will soon be replaced by snow. It’s a gorgeous time to take your ATV out for a ride.

Here are a couple of tips for winter trail riding:

Etiquette never gets old

If you’re sharing snowmobile trails, pay attention to your surroundings, especially blind corners and long straights. Practice letting snowmobiles, which are much faster than an ATV, go first.

Don’t break the law

Stay on the trails and be mindful of all posted trail traffic signs.

Look out below!

If you’re legally cutting a trail through fresh snow, beware of fallen trees, hidden boulders or snow-covered drop-offs.

Ice is not always your friend

Be cautious when riding on frozen lakes, ponds or rivers. Lakes must have at least six inches of solid ice before venturing out on them. Rivers are a different story, depending on where you live.

Safe distances

If you are ATVing with friends, make sure to keep your distance when following. You never know when icy conditions and white outs may pop up.

It may not be the most wonderful time of the year, but it surely is the most beautiful. We’re talking, of course, about fall.

It’s been called the year’s last, loveliest smile, and the season that God seemed to put there just for the beauty of it.

Fall is also our favorite time to ride. The cool, crisp air and colorful trees combine with an earthy scent only found at this time of year.

Here are a few of the best reasons to get out on your bike and enjoy a fall day trip:

– With the amazing colors of fall come cooler temperatures but shorter days. To make the most of your day, get up and out early.

– Been itching to wear those new leathers you got this summer? Pull out the new gear, pack a lunch and head off into the morning sun.

– Now that the temps are cooler, you can spend all day in the sun and not worry about getting dehydrated, worn out by the heat or that your older bike will overheat.

– Fall is a spectacular time to visit national parks, but be on the lookout for animals that are more active in the fall than in the summer.

– To be safe, pack a blanket, some snacks and a camera.

This fall, make motorcycle memories. You’ll be so glad you did.

For those of us who live in the Midwest, the days of summer motorcycle riding are numbered. Sure, we’ll have days that feel as though summer never left us, but one look at trees losing their leaves, earlier sunsets and cool night temps will nudge us back to reality.

A new season comes with new conditions for motorcyclists to deal with. So here are a few tips to help you enjoy autumn before the snow flies:

Falling leaves can be potentially dangerous

Dry leaves that pile up on the road, cover potholes or any other potential “bumps in your road,” can be an issue. Your best bet is to keep your eyes on the road and take routes you’re familiar with. Rain or morning dew can create wet leaves that can make the pavement slick and cause your bike to slide. If you approach a pile of leaves on the road, take it slow.

Yes, deer

Did you know more collisions with deer happen during autumn than any other time of year? Speaking from experience, you don’t want one darting in front of you while you’re riding your motorcycle. So please, make sure to wear protective gear when you head out on the road, and stay alert especially during dusk and dawn when deer movement reaches its peak.

Stay warm

There is nothing like a cool, crisp fall day - except when you get cold on a ride. This is the time of year when leather is your best friend. Not only dies if protect you from the wind, it will keep you warm while riding. Bringing extra layers and rain gear with you is also a great idea.

Frosty & Ice

It’s important to be aware of frost on the roads in the early morning. The pavement could have a thin layer of ice above it, which will force you to lose traction. Shaded areas will frost up first so it’s keep your eyes on the road.

Fall is a beautiful time to take in the glorious colors of the changing landscape. Just be careful.

How many old helmets do you have sitting in your garage? We have about five or six, sitting on the shelf looking like birds perched on a power line. 

But unlike birds on a power line who aren’t electrocuted because the wire’s the only thing they’re touching, wearing an old helmet may not be safe. And that pertains to any type of power sports’ helmet.

That’s the word from HelmetCheck.org, which enables riders to verify a helmet that they own, or are thinking about buying, complies with the U.S. Department of Transportation’s safety standard (FMVSS 218).

Most helmet manufacturers, including Raider®, recommend replacing your helmet every two to four years. If you notice any signs of damage before then, replace it sooner.

Even if the helmet doesn’t appear damaged and has never been in an accident or accidentally dropped, you still should replace it every few years. All those protective qualities that attracted you to purchasing the helmet in the first place, can deteriorate with time and wear.

Plus, helmets just keep getting better. The helmet you buy in a couple of years will be stronger, lighter, and more comfortable than the one in your garage. And it just might be cheaper. 

Lucky for you, Raider® Powersports offers a wide range of helmet styles. From full face to half helmets, MX to dual sport helmets our selection extends to everyone in your family. Our website also features a handy sizing chart so that you’ll get an accurate fit.

Everything looks better from inside a helmet – including your life and the lives of those you love.

“You need to put what you learn into practice and do it over and over again until it's a habit. I always say, 'Seeing is not believing. Doing is believing.'” ~ Brett Hoebel

You’re never too old to learn

Maybe it’s male menopause. Maybe it’s a return to a simpler day before wives and families and jobs. Maybe it’s just for fun. Whatever the reason, middle-aged men are returning to motorcycling in droves.

The Motorcycle Industry Council says about 46 percent of riders are over 50. Yes, Baby Boomers are buying motorcycles. With the good news, however, comes the bad.

Riders over age 40 also comprise the greatest share of motorcycle fatalities in the U.S. Those numbers can be attributed to getting back into riding and not getting advanced or additional training, as well as not picking out a bike that suits you physically or matches your skill level, according to a national report by the Governors Highway Safety Association.

Here are a couple of safety tips to help returning motorcycle riders succeed. They include:

Not up to the challenge

Many returning riders assume they can pick up where they left off, but that’s not the case. Smart riders should get re-trained before purchasing a new bike.

Bigger is not better

A too big, too tall or too powerful bike is an accident waiting to happen. For starters, opt for a new or used middleweight bike.

Take a class

Brush up on your skills by taking a class such as a new rider course, then going on to take intermediate and advanced classes at a later date.

Google it

Things have changed since you last rode a bike. If you are like me and most people in the world, you can find the answer to any question you have on your mind online.

Practice

Take the time to get used to your bike, stick to easy rides in the first few months and practice braking from time to time.

Finally, get the right gear

From helmets to goggles, gloves and more, Raider® has you covered.

Do you ever feel that a motorcycle is simply too big for you? I did many years ago, when my boyfriend at the time and I decided I should sell my 250 Honda and both use his 750 Honda Shadow.

I could maneuver the 250. I could pick it up if it fell. I felt I was in control.

My first (and last) attempt at riding the 750 was to work one summer evening. My job was only a couple miles away from home, so I felt I could safely make the journey. That feeling, however, quickly disappeared after work.

After I put on my helmet and took up the kickstand, I remembered that I had left something inside work. I jumped off the bike completely forgetting the kickstand was up. Down went the Shadow, as well as my confidence level.

Needless to say, I couldn’t budge the bike and had to get my boss to pick it up. How embarrassing!

I made it home OK, but vowed if I couldn’t pick up the motorcycle, it was too big for me. I have since learned that’s not the case.

There’s a method to getting your ride up on its wheels again, which starts by turning the handle bar in the direction of the fall. If the bike happens to be laying on its right side, make sure to lower the kickstand to catch the bike once it’s up.

Next, back up to your bike with your butt in the middle of the seat. Squat down, reaching for the handlebar with the hand nearest to the ground. Use your other hand to hold the frame or another sturdy part of the machine as low as you can get it.

Place your feet close together, lifting your chin and looking up to prevent back injury. Now, push with your legs and butt as you slowly take tiny steps back, and walk the bike back up.

If I had known these steps from early on, who knows how big of a bike I might be riding today.

Heading out on a Fourth of July trip between July 3-8? If so, you’re joining nearly 47 million Americans who will travel 50 miles or more away from home, according to AAA. That’s a five percent increase from last year and the most travelers for the holiday since AAA started tracking these stats 18 years ago.

Motorists are “supposed” to share the road with motorcyclists, but we all know that’s not always the case – especially when making left turns. There are also times where drivers fail to see motorcycles in traffic, especially at intersections because of low visibility, blind spots and distractions. 

Heavy holiday traffic is a nightmare for any motorist, but the risks intensify for motorcyclists. Here are some tips to help you safely maneuver holiday traffic on your motorcycle.

Plan for the unexpected

• Expect other drivers to make mistakes and be prepared to react.
• Be able to control speed
• Be prepared to react to other drivers
• Do not expect the other driver to do what you think he or she should do
• Respect other users of the roadway.
• Be aware of driving in special road and weather conditions
• Be alert and avoid distractions

Summer road construction awareness

• Again, expect the unexpected
• Slow down, be alert and pay attention to signs
• Comply with directions given by the flagger
• Be patient and expect delays
• Use the “Take 10” technique when changing lanes - put on your turn signal at least three seconds before starting a lane change and use at least seven seconds to complete the lane change, looking at your mirrors throughout.
• Drive defensively
• Obey all posted signs

Don’t drink and ride

• Alcohol affects one’s judgment and balance – both essential to riding a motorcycle
• Police patrols are out in full force during holidays looking for impaired drivers

Don’t speed

• The faster you go the higher the likelihood you’ll get into an accident; you may be an experienced driver but you have no idea about the guy next to you.

Stay out of blind spots

• Riders have to be vigilant about staying out of drivers’ blind spots so a sudden lane change does not become fatal.

Raider® Powersports wishes you a safe and enjoyable weekend, but be careful out there, and make sure to wear your helmet!

Have you ever been on a road trip when you see “the perfect picture,” only to later look at your smart phone and realize you totally missed the shot? I have. So I turned to Raider photographer Eric Miller for some advice. Eric has been a professional photographer for 35 years, and a member of the team here for nearly 3 years.

Eric’s first suggestion is to take a moment or two to look at all the angles of the scene you’re interested in shooting. “If you don’t want your pictures to look like everyone else’s, take time to look at what you are photographing before you photograph it. Find that spot that shows everything you want to show others. Don’t be afraid to lay down, kneel, tiptoe. Remember you are telling a story to the people who look at the finished product. What is it you want to say?”

Capture those moments by including friends and family who may be travelling with you in the shots. Don’t be afraid to take some photos spontaneously when they aren’t looking directly into the camera, Eric said.  “Planned and composed shots are nice, but natural smiles and reactions are often better when photographing people.”

Speaking of photographing people, try to have the light at their side, Eric said. “That way they won’t be squinting with full sun in their eyes or be a silhouette if the light is behind them.” He also said that the last couple hours before sunset and the first couple hours of daylight offer some of the best light for taking photographs - whether people or landscapes.

Use the rule of thirds for better composition. You don’t have to place your subject(s) dead center in every frame like a rifle scope. Try moving the subject to one side or the other. This will add depth to your images. –Also remember that you can take photos both vertically and horizontally. Turn your camera to get the best fit and composition.

Also, don’t be shy about taking shots. You traveled all that way, so take tons of pictures. You can later delete the ones you don’t like, as well as duplicates.

Finally, Eric said if you don’t need something in the photo, don’t show it. “Keep an eye open for branches sticking out of people’s heads or garbage cans in front of that beautiful view. Sometimes moving just an inch or two can make all the difference.”

I’d love to see some of your favorite shots. Maybe we’ll feature them in an upcoming article.

(Photo credit: Eric Miller)

“Legends die hard. They survive as truth rarely does.”

~ Helen Hayes

Have you ever watched The Discovery Channel’s show “Mythbusters,” where two guys test myths and urban legends to find out which are true and which are not? What a great way to finally put misconceptions to rest, right?

Thankfully for us, the biggest safety myths of motorcycling have already been put to the test. Here are some of the most common, and our rebuttal:

Lay it down before you crash

• Never, ever do that! It will not help. The best reaction is to slow down as much as possible, stay upright and use both brakes.

I won’t have an accident

• Even if you’ve ridden for years or think you’re lucky, an accident can be right around your next corner. Your best bet it is to be prepared for the unexpected.

Those kids

• According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 54-percent of motorcyclists killed in accidents in 2015 were at least 40 years old, which is a 17-percent increase in deaths in this age group since 2006. The reason? Riders at this age are beginning to experience a decline in vision and reaction time.

I like big bikes

• A new rider should never opt for a big bike, which can weigh upwards of 700 pounds or more. They are harder to handle in tight turns and in parking lots. Start smaller, gain experience and then make the move to go big.

One drink won’t hurt

• Studies show you increase your risk of an accident when you have even one drink. Ride responsibly, friends.

Helmets are hindrance

• Helmeted riders suffer fewer neck injuries when they crash
• Riders who use helmets crash less frequently than those who don’t
• Riders wearing DOT-approved helmets survive crashes more successfully than those without them

Finally, bikers wear leather only to look cool

• Leather is resistant to abrasion to protect riders from scrapes and cuts
• Leather acts as a great insulator against wind chill

When you first started riding, what myths did you heard about motorcycling, and how did you learn they weren’t true? Let me know.

Summer is nearly here, and you know what that means? Hitting the trails with your ATV.

Sure you can ride year round, but there’s something extraordinary about summer when nature hits its maximum potential, or as author Jenny Han puts it, "Everything good, everything magical happens between the months of June and August."

And nothing is more magical that winding through the deep woods embracing the beauty and the fresh, clean air - relishing in the solitude.

If you’ve never hit the trails before, you are in for an unforgettable adventure, and doing something new is always good for you. Plus, ATVing is an incredible way to see the natural bliss Mother Nature has provided.

ATVing in the summer, however, comes with its own set of rules because of the heat. If you don’t take care of yourself you can quickly get sick or die due to heat exhaustion, dehydration and other heat-related illnesses. So play it safe.

Slather on the sunscreen, then wait for about a half hour for it to reach its full potential. Drink more fluids, and we don’t mean booze or caffeine. If you wait until you’re thirsty, it’s too late. Water and sports drinks are the best choices to keep you hydrated.

Dress in light, breathable layers that will allow the air to pass through. Likewise, wear a light-colored helmet unless you want to cook your head.

Finally, stop riding if you experience any of the following signs or symptoms of these heat-related problems:

Heat exhaustion: Cool, clammy and pale skin, heat cramps, a weak pulse, nausea, chills and dizziness, weakness and disorientation

Heat stroke: Your skin becomes hot, flushed and dry. You stop sweating and your body temperature may rise above 106 degrees. You may feel confused and even faint. This condition can kill you.

If you follow the above tips, your day out in the woods should be the most enjoyable ever.

Happy trails!

In 1988, DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince became heroes among teens everywhere with the words of their classic song, “Parents Just Don’t Understand.”

The trick to getting parents to understand, especially when it comes to letting you ride a motorcycle, is to study up, know the risks, be patient and, no matter what the decision may be, acceptance. Here are a few tactics you can use to help win them over. They include:

Show your parents that you can handle responsibility. Help more around the house, get a job or even a second job and start saving money. “If your parents can see you’re more mature than the average teenager they’ll treat you more like an adult and trust you more,” writes MotorcycleNews.com.

This entails not only knowing how a motorcycle works, but also knowing the risks associated with riding one. Look up statistics about motorcycle crashes, and how technology has changed in the last 10 years to make you safer, says MotorcyclistOnline.com. Motorcycles also are fuel efficient, and take up less parking room.

Nothing says I’m serious as much as enrolling in a Motorcycle Safety Foundation approved safety course. According to the MSF home page, the course covers the basics of operating a motorcycle and safety-oriented mental strategies. Motorcycles and helmets are provided for your use. Successful completion of the course, consisting of five hours of formal classroom activities and 10 hours of riding instruction conducted over two or three sessions, plus its knowledge and skill tests, may waive the license test in your state. The course may also earn you an insurance discount. Now, that’s a bonus.

Find affordable gear you’ll need to stay safe, such as a full-face helmet, jacket, pants, gloves and boots. Add up the costs and show your parents the total. If you’ve saved up for a bike and the gear you’ll need, it will show you are thinking ahead.

Once you’ve respectfully presented your argument, give your parents time to think about it. It likely won’t happen overnight. The best things take time.

Good luck!

Pluviophiles unite. May is just around the corner, bringing with it the pitter patter and fresh scent of rain.

A pluviophile, as you may have guessed, is a person who loves everything about the rain, which may include riding a motorcycle in it. It may be where the old biker code that if you don’t ride in the rain, you don’t ride, came from.

If you love the rain but still haven’t ventured out to ride in the rain, the key to being successful is to be smooth, relaxed and confident – the same good riding tips for riding when its sunny and 72.

Here are a few other tips:

Relax

Approach riding in the rain the same way you ride any other day - by staying calm and relaxed. Don’t tighten your grip, make sure your elbows, shoulders and neck, as well as your hips, are loose. If your body is tense and rigid, it will only amplify any movement of the machine.

Braking & acceleration

Braking when it’s wet outside is the same as when streets are dry. Squeeze, don’t grab the lever. Any sudden shock of force will break traction. Again, stay relaxed. The same mantra goes for accelerating. Slow and steady keeps you safest.

Steer clear of puddles and smooth shiny surfaces

Sure, it would be fun to plow through the puddle and make a big splash, but there could be a deep pothole hiding there. If you can’t avoid the puddle, hold the throttle steady, keep the bike upright and don’t touch the brakes. Also remember that surfaces that are kind of slippery on dry days become super slippery in the rain. If you can’t steer clear, avoid hard braking or acceleration. And, if at all possible, try riding in the tire tracks vehicles left in front of you, which have paved your way.

Dress for the weather

Waterproof gear is a must, but even better is waterproof gear in hi-viz colors, which makes it easier for other drivers to see you. Wearing a face shield in orange or yellow is also a great way to increase contrast in poor visibility situations. Goggles also are a great option to avoid fogging face shields.

Take your time

Make sure you leave plenty of room between you and the vehicle ahead of you. Braking distances are longer in the rain. Plus, it gives you an opportunity to scan the road ahead of you in order to avoid the obstacles we’ve already discussed.

As the late Bob Marley once said: “Some people feel the rain. Others just get wet.”

Don’t get wet!

It has been said needing insurance is like needing a parachute. If it isn’t there the first time, chances are you won’t be needing it again. That’s painfully accurate.

Insurance is a necessary evil with the emphasis placed on necessary. It’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it. Plus, almost all states require minimum liability coverage just to register your motorcycle. 

A standard motorcycle insurance policy covers some portion of the costs associated with damage to your bike, and will also provide compensation in the event you cause harm to another person or their property or have legal fees to pay after an accident.

Your “bodily injury and property damage liability” insurance covers the cost of liability claims and legal fees, up to the limits of your policy, if you are at fault in an accident. Policies can also be customized to fit your needs.

Liability, which covers “the other guy,” is the only coverage cheaper than automobile insurance.  In most states, it’s about $25,000 of bodily injury coverage per person, $50,000 total per accident (if you hurt more than one person) and $10,000-20,000 of property damage, according to motorcycle.com. Make sure to get more insurance than you need.

Comprehensive and collision coverage, which cover you when you screw up, pays to fix your bike, or at least pay off what you may owe on your bike. It costs a lot more than liability insurance.

According to DairylandInsurance.com, there is no blanket answer for how much insurance coverage you need. “What you want to aim for is the most coverage that won’t overload you budget,” they write. “If something happens, you want coverage to handle the large claims and not leave you searching for money to cover the costs.”

Do you have your policy in place?

The first time I drove an ATV solo was on an extended date. I was a bit nervous about driving the quad by myself, but after about an hour relaxed into the day, and found myself enjoying it.

Four hours into the journey, we got lost and it began to pour outside. Miles and miles from our starting point, there was no way to get home but ride.

I drove like Evel Knievel those last couple hours as I blazed through muddy gullies, tree branches slapping me in the face. Cold, wet and hungry, I simply wanted a warm change of scenery and a shower.

That one day of proposed fun - and last date - lasted more than 7 hours. My throttle finger was numb – a situation that lasted for weeks. First experiences should be more fun than that, right?

Riding an ATV, I later learned, requires an understanding of how the vehicle operates in whatever environment you may find yourself in. It’s easy to underestimate the power and response of a quad. As a beginner, I was lucky nothing serious happened to me.

My advice: Be slow and methodical in the learning process. You wouldn’t get behind the steering wheel of a car for the first time with no training, would you?

Here are a couple other tips to keep in mind:

Practice: Practice using the clutch and shifting. Practice braking and how to incorporate it into traction control and cornering.

Utilize the buddy system: I know you’ll want to do your own thing right off the bat, but imagine what would happen if you’re in the middle of nowhere and run out of gas, get a flat or your battery dies. Two is always better than one.

Expect the unexpected: Bring along basic supplies like water, a compass, extra fuel and food. As the Boy Scouts say, Be Prepared!

Dress the part: A helmet and goggles are a must. Long sleeves and pants, gloves and boots that protect your ankles are also on the need to wear list.

A rain suit – and, in my case, a different date - would have served me well.

We all have our favorite motorcycle destinations.

Here in Wisconsin, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more beautiful place to ride than Door County. Featuring quaint country lanes, breathtaking forests, three state parks, waterfront towns and great places to stop for a bite to eat, it’s a road trip just waiting to happen.

As you head north from Sturgeon Bay on County B along the shore of Green Bay, for example, you’ll pass the bluffs of the Niagara Escarpment, a geologic formation that runs hundreds of miles through Wisconsin and beyond. It forms a great circle all the way to Niagara Falls at the New York-Canada border. The escarpment, known as Wisconsin’s eighth natural wonder, is simply a gorgeous ride.

If you take Highway 42 to Northport, you’ll wind your way up the peninsula, under a virtual awning of trees before hitting the winding curves near the northern tip of the Door Peninsula on the way to the Washington Island Ferry, a trip all its own.

A five-mile ferry ride takes you across Death’s Door, the main navigational passage between the bay of Green Bay and Lake Michigan and a legend that has flourished since the early 1700s.   The sparsely populated island is the perfect spot to explore 100 miles of road on your motorcycle. Stop by the laid back restaurants, and enjoy the charm of Schoolhouse Beach, a beach of smooth rocks.

Hope you’ve enjoyed this mini tour of one of my favorite rides. I’d love to hear about yours. It may just be featured in a future blog.

#Door County, #Motorcycle destinations, #Door County Visitor’s Bureau

I read somewhere that riding an ATV is like riding a bucking bronco. And it makes sense. It’s not unusual to get thrown off your ATV or for an ATV to roll over based on the path chosen and the experience of the driver.

The best way to stay safe is to wear the proper safety gear anytime you get on your ATV. Here’s the breakdown of some of the most important things you’ll need.

HELMET

Sure, it’s obvious, but a helmet is the most important piece of equipment you can wear, even if one is not required by law in your state. Head and neck injuries account for 29-percent of ATV-related injuries. Why tempt fate? Check out Raider’s great line of helmets at http://bit.ly/2FfEeWJ.

GLOVES

Just like a helmet, a good pair of riding gloves keep you protected from flying gravel and rocks, or a branch from a tree you pass by too closely. Gloves also give you a better grip on the steering wheel. Check out our gloves at http://bit.ly/2oGSehN

GOGGLES

Eyes are priceless, eye protection is cheap, or so the saying goes. When you’re cruising through the woods at 30 mph, a tiny rock or a flying insect can do some serious damage to your eyes. Goggles prevent this from happening while giving you a better view of the trail. Great selection of goggles available at http://bit.ly/2D1uHMC

PROTECTIVE CLOTHING

Long pants, long sleeves, above-the-ankle boots. Need I say more?

CELL PHONE

A fully charged cell phone is your connection to the outside world if you get lost or hurt.

Finally, gearing up before you head out on the trails enables you to have fun while remaining safe.  

Comedian Robin Williams once said, “Spring is nature’s way of saying, ‘Let’s party!”

While that may well be true, when it comes to power sports, there’s some work to do before that partying can begin. Namely, getting your snowmobile ready for storage.

Keeping your snowmobile in tip-top condition for years to come requires more than throwing it in the garage or on the side of the house with a tarp over it.

Scanning the internet, I came up with these tips to not only keep your snowmobile running for years, but also to retain its value. And it only takes about an hour. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Can of storage fogging oil
2. A few ounces of fuel stabilizer
3. Grease
4. Hand tools
5. Aerosol lubricant

Avoiding green gunk: Add fuel stabilizer to the gas left over in the sled tank to keep it from evaporating or going bad over the summer. After you put in the stabilizer, slosh it around in the tank, then run the engine for a while so the mixture is allowed to flow through the fuel line. When finished, drain any excess gas from the carb and switch the fuel to off so the gas won’t damage any gaskets.

Fogging the engine: While the engine is running just above idle, spray fogging oil into each of the intakes. Switch back and forth between cylinders for about a minute, continue to spray the oil to make sure all internal parts are coated.

Grease the frame: Make sure to grease any fittings on the suspension and steering systems, which will protect them from rust.  

Clean your snowmobile: You’ve protected the inner workings of the machine, now take some time to keep the outside in great shape by removing salt and dirt with a warm, soapy water wash. Make sure to rinse thoroughly. It’s not a bad idea to throw your snowmobile cover in the washer for a yearly cleanse, as well.

Parking your sled: Make sure to park your snowmobile in a dry place, such as the garage, with either your newly clean cover or a soft tarp over it to protect it from dust Elevate the rear end of the sled and to allow the suspension to hang freely to keep track lug tips from folding over. . Mothballs under the hood and on the tunnel will help keep out the critters.

If you have any added tips, I’d love to hear from you.

Every time I get on or off the back of my husband’s bike, I ask for permission. If he’s not aware of my intentions he can’t steady the bike to manage my added weight and movement, and we might just tip over. 

Being a good motorcycle passenger, you see, is a learned behavior, and one that can only be fostered by the person in the driver’s seat.

Before a motorcyclist can even think about adding a passenger to the equation, they must be totally comfortable operating their bike in all riding conditions.

Once you learn your bike well and put on some miles, the next step is making sure your passenger is equipped with a DOT-approved helmet, like those offered by RaiderÒ, eye protection, gloves, full-coverage shoes, pants and a jacket. It’s also a good idea to make sure your bike will be comfortable and safe for your passenger.

Prior to heading out on the open road, explain to the passenger what their role is in the ride. This includes letting them know they should lean with you around corners, and brace for braking and acceleration by holding onto the grab handles or your waist.

Finally, start out slowly with your new passenger by taking only short rides to get them accustomed to the feel of your bike, and let them be in charge. If ever they feel uncomfortable, tell them to tap your shoulder to let you know - then pull over immediately. A scared passenger will never get back on a bike. Take their fears seriously.

I’ve learned my lessons well. Make sure your partner does the same.

ATVs are the all-season power sports vehicle, and they don’t come with the winter prerequisite of snow.

While most winter sports enthusiasts are desperate for snow to envelope the landscape in white, the ATV is content to sit and wait.

An ATV doesn’t need snow – it just enjoys the new challenges that come with it, and winter is a great time to ride. The season offers a fresh thrill and a feeling of freedom, as you ride through the snowy trails.

If you haven’t gone ATVing in the winter­­, try it. I guarantee you’ll want to do it again and again. The experience will take your breath away, but there are a few things you’ll need to know.

First up is winterizing your ATV, according to North East Wisconsin Riders Inc., a family-friendly ATV club.

Winter may be pretty, but it’s cold. Add accessories that will keep you warm like an ATV cab, windshield and heated grips or gauntlets, like those offered by Raider.

The North East Wisconsin Riders club also suggests adding larger diameter tires than stock tires to improve traction. Another option is to add a track kit to enable the ATV to ride on top of the snow.

Perhaps the worst thing for an ATV in the winter is corrosive salt or ice-melt products, which immediately go to work to rust parts and corrode components. A good rule of thumb is to wash your ATV after riding it and spraying it down with WD-40 or something similar. It’s a good idea to cover it while trailering. Raider has you covered when it comes to covers, as well.

Are you a wintertime ATV enthusiast? If so, I’d love to hear about some of your favorite rides. As well as tips that have worked well for you.

#letitsnow, #winterATVing

If there’s a support group for new bloggers, I’m joining the fold.

Hi, I’m Cheryl, the new blogger for Raider® Powersports, a subsidiary of the Green Bay, WI-based company called BCS International. Although new to the world of blogging, I’m not new to writing. For more than 16 years, I was a features writer for a local newspaper, and for the last 2½ years have worked as a copywriter here at BCS.

My goal with this blog is to share information about the wonderful line of power sports products we offer, including helmets and accessories, covers to keep your power sports equipment protected, and so much more. You’ll also be the first to know if we launch a new product or line, and be privy to coupons, sales and hot deals. But my blog won’t just be product-based. I’ll share information about a wealth of topics related to power sports. And I hope to get some input from you. Feel free to ask me about products, where to purchase them and pricing.And, if you’re so inclined and just want to say hello, I’m good with that, too.

If you’re wondering about the title of this, my first blog, wonder no more. When trying to figure out what to call this blog, a talk with my co-worker quickly turned from serious to comical. “Noggin’s Blog-ins,” he said, and we laughed.

Noggin’s = heads = helmets = Raider® Powersports. Get it? Works for me!

#raiderpowersports #nogginsblogins