Torch's Motorcycle Racing Links / Directory

Torch's Motorcycle Racing Links

II VI II
All Harley Drag Racing Association
AMA Dragbike
AMA National Gaurd Racing
AMA Pro Racing
American Historic Racing Motorcycle Association
American Sportbike Racing Association
Aussie Dave Racing
Ben Spies
Bike Channel
Brandon Cretu Racing
Carlos Checa
Central Motorcycle Racing Association
Championship Cup Series
Chase McFarland Racing
Cody Wyman
Daniel-Eric Ouimet
Dark Horse Racing
Dom-N-Ator Racing
FIM
Go-Scooter-Go
Hudson Kennaugh
Hunter Morgan
Isle of Man TT
Leon Camier
Leon Haslam
Less Flower More Power
M2TX
Marco Melandri
Mario Alvarez II
Max Biaggi
Max Neukirchner
MCE British Superbikes
Melissa Paris
Mike Edwards
Mike Wells Racing
Monster Yamaha Tech3
Motorcycle Drag Racing Association
Moto Cafe
Moto GP
MotoGPod
MotoGP World
Moto Race Reports
Moto Sponsor
Nicky Hayden
On The Throttle
Parts Canada Superbike
Peter Lenz
Race Fans TV
RMP Racing
Road Kill Racers
Road Racing World
Robert Buroker
Rubber Side Down
Serpent Racing
Shakey
Speed TV Moto Racing
SS&D Racing
Superbike Planet
Supermoto
Suziperry
Texas Scooter Times
Tony Elias
Troy Bayliss
World Superbike USA
US Grand Prix Racers Union
WERA Motorcycle Roadracing Association
World SBK
World Sperbikes


Send me your racing links to add; Torch

Ohio Riders Forum Review

Ohio Riders Forum Review

There are a lot of good motorcycle forums out there. You can find forums based on the brand or model of bike you ride, the style or type of riding that you do, or ones based on the location or area that you ride in. Most are friendly and helpful and are a great place to find information, meet new people and just pass the time when you cannot ride. One of the better forums out there is the Ohio Riders forum. If you live and ride in Ohio, are just going to be passing through or are stopping in for a visit, be sure and stop by the Ohio Riders forum to glean great information about motorcycling in The Buckeye State.


Ben Stillman asked me to stop in for a visit and give them a review. I have been perusing their forum now for a couple of weeks and have found it quite informative and entertaining. Since they are a location based forum they do not care what type or brand of bike that you ride whether it be a Yamasaki or a Honda-Davidson. The Ohio Riders forum is an active forum with stats of; Threads: 54,014, Posts: 443,123, Members: 3,932 as of March 30th. It seems there is someone online almost all the time.

They break the forum down into six catagories including;

The lounge; which includes sections covering, Introductions, Tech Tips, Riding Tips and more.

Riding Styles: where you will find sections on Street Fun, Track Days, Adventure / Sport Touring, Stunting, and more.

Rides and Events; which has the Calendar Events and breaks them all down by the different areas of Ohio.

Time Wasters; where you will find the subjects of Ranting and Raving, Off-Topic, Pics and Vids, and more.

Market Place; where you will find the Bike Shop, Parts Shop, Gear Shop and more for sale.

News Feeds; which includes news feeds from AMA, MotoGP, MCN, and SpeedTV, a very good selection in my humble opinion. This makes their site a great one stop motorcycling news source.

Ohio Riders forum is laid out aesthetically and is very organized making it intuitive to navigate. There are a few well placed ads that are neither distracting nor overbearing. The atmosphere is friendly and there is the usual ribbing, banter and forum humor you will find on most forums. Ohio Riders has been helping motorcycle riders since 2006 with no end in sight. Even if you don’t live or ride in Ohio you can find useful or entertaining information browsing their forum. Stop in and say ‘hi’ and tell them Torch sent ya.

Ride on,
Torch

Chuck Norris 03 Kawasaki 636 ZX6-R?

Chuck Norris 03 Kawasaki 636 ZX6-R?

My son ran across this add on Craigslist & I really enjoyed reading it. So, I have reprinted here, unedited except for the #'s etc.  for your reading pleasure:

Chuck Norris 03 Kawasaki 636 ZX6-R - $4800 (dallas)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: 2010-03-15, 4:58PM CDT
Reply to: sale-y49mk-XXXXX@craigslist.org [Errors when replying to ads?]
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


OK, let me start off by saying this Kawasaki ZX6-R is only available for purchase by the manliest of men (or women). My friend, if it was possible for a bike to sprout chest hair and a five o'clock shadow, this Kawi would look like Tom Selleck. It is just that sexy.

It was never intended to drive to the Galleria mall so you can pick up that adorable shirt at Abercrombie & Fitch that you had your eye on. It wasn't meant to transport you to yoga class or Bath & Body Works. No, that's what your vespa is for. If that's the kind of “bike” you're looking for, then just do us all a favor and stop reading right now. I mean it. Just stop.

This sex-machine was engineered by 3rd degree ninja super-warriors in the highest mountains of Japan to serve the needs of the man that cheats death on a daily basis. They didn't even consider superfluous, nancy-boy amenities like navigation systems (real men don't get lost), heated leather seats (a realman doesn't let anything warm his butt), or On Star (real men don't even know what the hell On Star is).

No, this brute comes with the things us testosterone-fueled super action junkies need. It has a 636cc engine to outrun the cops. It's got specialblood/gore resistant upholstery. It even has a first-aid kit in the back. You know what the first aid kit has in it? A pint of whiskey, a stitch-your-own-wound kit, and a hunk of leather to bite down on when you're operating on yourself. The Kawi also has 5 gears so if you're being chased by Taliban-terrorists, you can outrun them with a gun strapped to your back and shoot them at high-speed intervals. It's saved my bacon more than once.

It has room for you and the hottie you picked up on the way to the gym to blast your pecs and hammer your glutes. I also just put in a brand new stator to replace the malfunctioning one from The Man(ufacturers) that sucked.


My price on this bad boy is an incredibly low $4,800 but I'll entertain reasonable offers. And by reasonable, I mean don't walk up and tell me


you'll give me $2,000 for it. That's liable to earn you a Burmese-roundhouse-sphincter-kick with a follow up three fingered eye-jab. Would it hurt?


Hell yeah. Let's just say you won't be the prettiest guy at the Coldplay concert anymore.

There's only 17,000 miles on this two-wheeled hellcat from Planet Kickass. It is in pristine condition, not a scratch on this monster. Trust me, it will outlive you and the offspring that will carry yourname. It will live on as a monument to your machismo.

Now, go look in the mirror and tell me what you see. If it's a rugged, no holds barred, super brute he-man macho Chuck Norris stunt double, then contact me. I might be out hang-gliding or BASE jumping or just chilling with my homes, but I'll get back to you. And when I do, we'll talk about a


price over a nice glass of Schmidt while we listen to Led Zeppelin.

To sweeten the deal a little, I'm throwing in this pair of MC Hammer pants for the man with rippling quads that can't fit into regular pants. Yeah,


you heard me. FREE MC Hammer pants.

Rock on.

shoot me a text if you fit the description of someone who can handle sex on wheels,


214 772 XXXX


ace

•Location: dallas


•it's NOT ok to contact this poster with services or other commercial interests
 
 
 
Here is the link: http://dallas.craigslist.org/dal/mcy/1645662880.html
 
I emailed ace and he never replied. I got several laughs while reading this and Twittered the link but I thought I would repost it here for your reading pleasure.
 
Ride on,
Torch

Scorpion EXO 1000 Full Face Helmet Review

Scorpion EXO 1000 Full Face Helmet Review

I had been riding with a half helmet now for quite some time. Riding with a HJC CS-2N half helmet in the cold or rain, which I did the previous winter, is quite challenging. So, this fall with cooler temperatures fast approaching, I really wanted to upgrade to a full face helmet. I saved up some money and used a coupon I picked up at the International Motorcycle Show and headed over to Cycle Gear to try on helmets. It too k me two trips and lots of reading, both online and in magazines, doing research in hopes of getting the most bang for my buck.

If you have never been to try on helmets it is an exasperating endeavor. Different brands fit different shapes of heads and the trick is to find one that fits your particular head shape and then find a model that has all the features you want. I tried on a bunch and settled on the Scorpion EXO 1000 Solid in Glossy Black.

Here are the stats from Scorpions website:

• Fiberglass/Kevlar™ Matrix Shell: Quiet, aero-tuned design for wind-tunnel tested comfort. EPS-lined chin bar for additional protection.


• AirFit® permits a rider to personalize helmet fit through air adjustable cheek pads.


• SpeedView® an internal retractable light smoke sun visor that eases eye strain instantly in varying light conditions without changing face shields, plus an EverClear® coating on both sides for a fog free ride.


• SpeedShift® quick-change shield system (patent pending): Easy, secure tool-less faceshield changes in ten seconds or less.


• EverClear® no-fog faceshield: Optically-correct shield with state-of-the art fog-free technology and anti-scratch hardened coating.


• KwikWick® moisture-wicking helmet liner and cheek pads: Breathable, easily removable and washable.


• Ventilation system: Adjustable, indexed front and rear vents with aero-tuned rear spoiler reduce lift, create vacuum and maximize airflow through helmet.


• Breath-deflector: Enhanced fog-free performance.


• Snell/DOT Certified.

Going down their list and commenting on features:

The helmet is not as quiet as I would expect for a full face helmet as far as wind turbulence is concerned, although my bike does have a windshield on it that may contribute to the wind noise. Keep in mind I ride a cruiser, not a sport bike.

The AirFit check pads I have never had to use. Of course, not being used to a full face the helmet, they felt tight on my cheeks to begin with.

The SpeedView internal sun shade has multiple issues. First it is not dark enough for the Texas sun and glare. It will fog up if deployed when cold blocking your vision. The shade deploys and retracts the opposite way you would expect. Moving the lever down moves it down and up moves it up, instead of the natural way a lever should work which makes it extremely unintuitive to use. It also does not come down far enough leaving a line across your viewing area and not dimming the lower half making it hard on your eyes. This may not be so bad if you ride in the sport bike position. Lastly it also has distracting reflections on the sides in your peripheral vision that makes you think something is inside your helmet when vehicles drive by. I found this last issue the most distracting and annoying.

I have not used the SpeedShift quick-change shield system as of yet.

As with most face shields the EverClear no-fog shield still fogs. I used Fog Off and left the lower and upper center vent open all winter. Also the Optically correct lens still distorts your vision around the edges.

The KwickWick liner seems to do its job just fine. I have been using a helmet liner on my head first before putting the EXO 1000 helmet on to protect it from my wet hair and small amount of hair gel I use in the morning before commuting to work.

The ventilation system appears to work just fine, although I have not tried it in the Texas Summer time with all the vents opened up. Still the thought of a full face helmet in the summer stifles my imagination.

I am sure the Breath-deflector must help some, but I’m not convinced it does a whole lot to stop fogging.

I like the fact that it is both Snell and DOT approved.

Transitioning from a half helmet a full face helmet does take some getting used to. It can tend to make you feel slightly claustrophobic, although your head, and especially your face, feels much more protected and secure, which it is. The pressure on your cheeks is different but after wearing for a season the helmet conforms to your face as it breaks in. a full face helmet is warmer when it is cold outside and extremely nice to have when riding in the rain. You will still need some extra protection for your neck when it is real cold.

A full face does make the ride a lot quieter blocking out a lot of the bike and traffic noise. It also restricts your peripheral vision some and you will find yourself having to turn your head farther to make sure lanes are clear before changing. The visor lock lever is too small, too easy to accidently lock and not glove friendly. Most of the air vents can be opened and closed with gloves on once you get the feel for their location.

The fit and finish of all the materials is stellar. The inside is extremely comfortable. The chin strap is unobtrusive and easy to use with a snap for the loose end. Thankfully, when it was cold, there was not a lot of air leaking up from the neck area.

For its first season of use the Scorpion EXO 1000 performed as expected. Aside from some operator error it did its job just fine. It came with a helmet bag and you can order a Scorpion reflective helmet sticker band if you can find someone with it in stock online. Torch gives the Scorpion EXO 1000 a M.M.M Rating of 9.0 on a scale of 1-10.

Ride on,
Torch

Motorcycle Swap Meet

Motorcycle Swap Meet

I made it out to the Fort Worth Texas Scooter Times Motorcycle Swap Meet last Sunday. I went early with two of my sons; Joshua and Jacob with my grandson Ryan. There were a few vendors still getting set up but the majority of them were ready for business. There were all types of vendors and wares for sale from all over Texas.

We saw stuff for guys, gals and kids. Of course, almost all of the miscellaneous motorcycle parts were for Harley’s. I think you could have purchased all the parts there to put together a complete bike.

The swap meet seemed to be well attended with a lot of people going through and carrying armloads stuff they had purchased.

Jake bought a pickup piggybank for Ryan which he pushed around making engine sounds on our second time around the swap meet.

Ryan on the strangest ride out there

Of course I did not get out unscathed and purchased a raccoon tail for Joshua. We were there about an hour and a half and headed home. Texas Scooter Times has Swap Meets scheduled for Houston and San Antonio in the near furure. They have a Video walk through on their website. Be sure and check one out when they come to a town near you.

Ride on,
Torch

Honest Scrap Award

Midlife Motorcycle Madness Has Received the

Honest Scrap Award

Yes, Midlife Motorcycle Madness has won another award that appears to have been circulating the blogosphere since 2008. The Honest Scrap award was given to me by Nancy Frye-Swope from The Retired Biker Housewife Blog. I am honored to have received the award and I too will attempt to pay it forward.

Here are the rules of the Honest Scrap Award:

Thank the person who gave the award and list their blog and link it.

Share “10 Honest Things” about yourself.

Present this award to 7 others whose blogs you find brilliant in content and/or design, or those who have encouraged you.

Tell those 7 people they’ve been awarded Honest Scrap and inform them of these guidelines in receiving the award

Here are the “10 Honest Things” about myself:

1. Interesting enough, Nancy Frye-Swope is currently working on a fictional novel, Ride the Warrior’s Fury, which takes place in the past and unbeknownst to her, I am working on a Science Fiction novel called Future Cycle, based in the future. However, she is in the final stages of her novel and I am just in the beginning of mine.

2. I have a very eclectic taste in music but cannot sing one note or carry a tune with a bucket. I like the genres of Classic Rock, Rock, Instrumental Rock, Oldies, Classic Country, Country, Classic Blues, Modern Blues, Christian Rock, R&B, Motown, Soul, Praise & Worship and Jazz. I love to hear a good solo or jam on any musical instrument that is played well. I would try to list some favorites but I just like too many. I have a huge music collection.

3. I’m pretty good at guessing the band or artist by just hearing part of the music, remember Name That Tune?

4. I am a fairly large individual, 6’2” quiet, and do not smile much, but I'm a softy at heart. I tear up way too easily at the movies.

5. I enjoy reading Science Fiction, Science books, the Bible, anything motorcycle or firearm related, and Christian literature.

6. I own a beautiful Guild acoustic guitar and a wine colored Fender Stratocaster but can only strum chords.

7. I have a terrible memory and can only remember about 3 phone numbers, my social security number, my driver’s license number, my anniversary date, my wife’s birthday, and my 6th child’s birthday, (born on our anniversary), but can remember millions of song lyrics.

8. I consider myself to be very antisocial. I’m a loner, hate crowds, meeting new people and strange places. I just never know what to say, but most people tend to like me once they get to know me.

9. I am very sarcastic and have an extremely warped sense of humor that often times will get me into trouble if I am not careful.

10. I am extremely acrophobic, scared of heights. I can’t even look at a movie when they peer over the edge of a precipice.

Whew, glad that is over.

OK here are the Seven Bloggers I wish to bestow the Honest Scrap Award to:

1. Stephanie aka Iowa Harley Girl from the many thoughts of harleygirl. She is winning all kinds of awards and deservedly so.

2. Stacy at bolty.net. Can't wait to hear about her new bike.

3. Bob from Bobscoot: West Coast Scootin. A true photofest.

4. Jack Riepe on Twisted Roads by Jack Riepe. Jack always tells it like it is, or rather how he sees it, lol.

5. Steve Williams over at Scooter in the Sticks. Two wheels & a camera, what more could you want?

6. Chessie from Chessie’s Tales, Motorcycles and Rides. A blast of good information.

7. Allen’s Allen Madding’s Musings. Always good info.

There are too many great blogs out there to choose from.

Ride on,
Torch

Kewlmetal Kewlock Review

Kewlmetal Kewlock Review

My Mistress, a 2003 Yamaha V-Star 1100 Classic, came with Kuryakyn ISO grips and a pair of Kewlmetal Kewlocks already installed when I purchased her used. I must say that I have found the Kewlocks one of the most useful accessories on the bike, especially since purchasing a Scorpion EXO-1000 full face helmet for winter and rain riding. It gets used almost every day during the winter now.

Here is a shot of the Scorpion EXO-1000 hanging from the Kewlock, (click on all photos for larger image).

On the V-Star the factory helmet lock is ingeniously located on the left rear fender so that if you install a set of saddlebags it renders it absolutely useless. Makes you wonder just what the engineers were thinking, or smoking, when they designed the bike. Anyway, Kewlmetal has designed a useful accessory to add a helmet lock to the end of one or both sides of your handlebars or grips called a Kewlock.

I know she needs a bath, but keep in mind I almost always ride and its winter.

You can get installation directions online at their website to see how they are installed. Once they are installed they are simple to use. They come with a key which fits into the end of the lock. When the key is turned in the lock a center spring loaded pin pops out about ¼ an inch which opens the slot in the side of the lock. You simply slide in one of the metal rings from your helmet strap into the slot and push the pin back into the lock and it automatically locks the pin in place with the helmet ring inside.

Close up of Kewlock side view of lock with pin in center.

If you do not have a ring that will fit up into the Kewlock slot they make extenders that make it easier to attach. The extenders are a 1 ½ inch thin piece of metal that can be slid into your helmet ring and has a hole on the opposite end that fits easily into the Kewlock. I have not had to use an extender but I do have to turn the helmet rings sideways to get them to fit up into the lock far enough to lock in. Kewlmetal also has neat designer helmet lock extensions on their website.

Closer shot of the helmet ring inside Kewlock.

I usually do not lock up my half helmet at work or at home in the garage; I just lean it on the right saddlebag or hang it on the right handlebar. I do lock it up anytime I go someplace public. My full face helmet I always lock up, the darned things are just too danged expensive. The only disadvantage to using the Kewlocks that I have found is that if your bike happens to get caught out in a shower your helmet gets soaked inside. Don’t ask me how I know. However, that can happen even when not using Kewlocks though.

You can store your gloves & other headgear inside your helmet.

Kewlmetal Kewlocks are a simple tool that makes riding much more convenient and when left unattended, your helmet much more secure. Torch gives the Kewlmetal Kewlocks a M.M.M. Rating of 9.5 on a scale of 1-10.

Ride on,
Torch

Note: All picture except the top one taken with an old little Sony DSC-S650 7.2 Mega Pixel camera.