
Most bikes differ from cars in that they have separate front and rear brakes, while most cars' brakes function as one. In addition, motorcycles use different front and rear tires; weight shift is also a major part of a motorbike's stopping performance. Anti-lock brake systems for bikes and cars...
Motorcycles stop faster and accelerate harder when they're straight up and down, because that's when the tires put the most footprint to the road surface. Suspension components also work best in the pure vertical plane—leaning the bike over puts side loads on them, encouraging binding and frame...
Just like your head, a helmet has plenty of parts that need to work together to protect your brain. These are the things to look for. 1. PROTECTIVE VISOR Shields face/eyes from sun/wind. Provides a mild level of crash protection. Helps reduce noise. 2. HARD OUTER SHELL Plastic, Kevlar,...
On- or off-road motorcycle riders should look for jackets with the following features: 1. Smooth inner lining to reduce skin abrasion 2. Zip-in liner for cold weather 3. Windflap behind the zipper 4. Arms set forward for a natural riding position 5. Optional back protection 6. Zippers, Velcro,...
Adjusting your bike's chain won't make it any faster, but it's critical if you want your chain to last. It's fast, easy, and next to checking your own tire pressure it's one of the first things any home mechanic should learn. Too tight is as bad as too loose, but it'll only take minutes to get...
We don't mean a rollaway filled with a ton of shop tools here—thits kit is a compact set that fits under your seat or in a daypack. In the old days, your bike probably came with one; now you may have to assemble one yourself. A tried-and-true method of learning what to pack is to use your...
Texting, phone calls, narcolepsy, general ineptitude—automobile drivers may not be deliberately trying to kill you, but they can do a fine job of it without trying. Your defense? First, get as far away from them as possible—especially their blind spots. Second, be conspicuous. In other words,...