As a new rider insuring your bike could leave you feeling like you’ve just had a run in with Dick Turpin. The usual premium slashing saviours of years of riding experience or years of accumulated no claims bonus’s clearly don’t apply, but it is not all bad news, there are things you can do to keep costs to a minimum. ...
- New rider
- 04 November 2009
Checking the wheel alignment on a bike is a really useful skill, especially when you’re out there looking to buy a new machine and you want to make sure the frame isn’t bent and the forks are still straight. The first thing you need is a straight edge and an eight foot fluorescent tube will give you that. Next, clamp ...
- New rider
- 30 October 2009
These days a lot of bikes have their ignition keys coded to the ECU to make it harder for thieves to get them going. But that means you have to take extra special care of those keys because if you are unlucky enough to lose both keys you could need a new ECU at up to ₤1000. The reason is ...
- New rider
- 30 October 2009
It¹s very easy to get carried away with your new purchase, regardless of its power levels and capacity. Even a 125 can go fast enough to get you points on your licence on a country road. Here are the current Association of Chief Police Officers guidelines for speeding punishments: Speed Limit (mph) Fixed Penalty Summons 20 25 35 30 35 ...
- New rider
- 19 October 2009
So you've bought your first motorcycle helmet, or inherited one from a friend or family member. The first question many riders ask in the flush of excitement that comes with passing a CBT is 'can I put stickers on my lid?'. (Let's face it, everyone likes stickers!) Here's the answer... Further reading:Motorcycle FAQ
- New rider
- 02 October 2009
If your bike is cutting out mysteriously, especially when you try to select a gear or pull away for the first time, check out the sidestand cut-out switch. It sits in a very exposed position low on the left and can often get crudded up or corroded with bad connections. Further reading:Motorcycle FAQ
- New rider
- 11 September 2009
If your new bike is making an odd sound like a sort of squeaking noise, or rubbing sound, that comes and goes, check the relative positions of the footpeg and rear brake pedal. It's all too easy to rest your foot on the rear brake pedal and ride the brake so much that the pads wear down to the metal. ...
Checking the wheel alignment on your bike is an essential skill, especially if you have removed the wheels to fit new tyres or chain and sprockets. The first thing you need is a straight edge and an eight foot fluorescent tube will give you that. Next, clamp your straight edge against the front tyre, then very gently move the steering ...
If you're trying to get oil off you hands properly after your first go at home maintenance, but you haven't got a decent hand cleanser around, use washing up liquid and put a dab of washing powder in your hands. Further reading:Motorcycle FAQ
Owning your first big bike is a fantastic feeling, but if you are nervous of lifting the rear of your bike onto the paddock stand on your own, then use the entrance of your garage to keep the bike steady. Attach some old straps from backpacks either side of the garage door at handlebar height, then ride your bike half ...
