Highest Rated Blog Posts

• Is a Helmet Necessary?

  • From: madcow
  • Description:

    Before last week I would say, sometimes. But my mind was changed Monday, June 22,2009 at 8:57pm. I got a call that is and always has been the most feared of any parent. That your child has been in an accident! Now let me start from the beginning. my oldest son & daughter-inlaw  decided to take her fathers "Harley" for an evening "cruise" and had left thier two daughters with the wife & me to watch. I was to meet them at thier house to drop off the grandkids on my way to work at 9. After arriving at almost 9pm and finding no one home I get "the call". It's my son telling me he & his wife have just had a wreck! Instinctively, I ask if they are alright? He says no. I ask: Where are you guys? I don't know, it just happened. By this time I'm frantic, Iask if the police or ambulance are there" No, he says, but as I stand there "speechless" I hear voices over the phone asking: "Are you alright? Is anyone hurt? Afterwards my son says he's on County road 259 & then hangs up. Here I stand with my two grand-daughters in the car, thinking what I should do! My mind is blurred with terrible images & thoughts. I fianally take grip and decide to take the grandkids back to my house and have my wife care for them while try to find my son and D-inlaw. As I search the countryside looking for the "crash site" I recieve a phone call from my brother-inlaw saying he heard of the accident and was there and gave me directions. By the time I arrived, everyone, I mean son, daughter-inlaw, police, fire-rescue, & motorcycle were gone. I then get a phone call from my wife saying her brother had called and said the "kids" were on thier way to the hospital.When I got there I found my son in one "emergency room" covered from head to toe with the worst case of "ROAD RASH" i had ever saw. My daughter-inlaw wasn't so lucky. See, neither one had on helmets, it's not cool! But they did have on thier "Okley's(sunglasses) When my daughter-inlaw's head hit the pavement her sunglass frames broke and drove the earpiece through the side of her cheek just under and behind her left eye. Luckly; she didn't loose her site! But she will have to have plastic surgery! Now the rest of her life, my "beautiful" daughter-inlaw will be reminded of that night the rest of her life each time she looks into a mirror! As for my son, he too; learned a valuable lesson. He told me that when he lost control in "loose gravel" and layed the bike over, he started rolling over & over toward a Road Sign. ANd all he could think of, was "what will become of my two little girls"? And then he hit the sign. My son is 6ft2 & wieghs around 245lbs and played defensive back in highschool & was "county all-star" player. He told me he had never tackled anybody that hurt as much as that sign did when he hit it "dead on".(bent road sign over with force of his body hitting it)! I'll end this story on a "happy note" both are out of hospital (still very sore) and say they will never ride without protective equipment again and I don't mean Okley's! As for me and my wife, we never ride without Helmets and the wife, since the kids accident, wears "chaps".

  • Blog post
  • 4 months ago
  • Views: 1190

• The CC Community and The Barbe

  • From: RMFIII
  • Description:

    Song writer and Country and Western Star, Toby Keith, has a song called, "I love this bar" and his sentiments for his bar are the same for me and this site. The site offers the opportunity to conveniently purchase accessories for ones ride with just a click of the mouse. The information on the site is just down right invaluable if the situation arises where one needs a quick fix or in depth instruction, and the people on this site are second to none.

    The CC site reminds me of yesteryear before men went to hair salons for haircuts. Most men of the day went to the local community Barber Shop. Now for those who may not remember the barber shop the barber shop was more than a place to get your hair cut.

    Now, although the barber shops primary business was to cut and trim hair many other things took place in the shop. Actually very little hair cutting actually took place as I remember. It was more of a social club. Chairs lined the walls and they always seemed to have a body in them unless it was a nice day and the sun was shinning then a few would go outside and sit on the bench in front of the barber shop. Folks would come to the barber shop to catch up on events in the community, tell jokes, get a few hunting and fishing tips, gossip, Tell a few fishing and hunting stories, read magazines and the local paper, give some old fashioned ribbing to each other, play cards or checkers, disseminate information from those in the know on various topics, and a lie or two may have even been told.

    Heck the barber shop even sold things such as various hair tonics, combs, after shaves, a litte hair grease, and there were even a few jars of Roses Butch Wax (Remember the stuff for the front of Flat Top Cut?) on the shelf. Although the barber had wares for sale I kinda figured he did not sell too much because there was always a good layer of dust on the merchandise but the barber still had his doors open for the community and everyone had the opportunity to express their opinions and views if they choose to do so. Now there may have been a disagrement or two mind you, but they were always short lived and life continued on.

    Does the barber shop kinda sound like the Cruiser Customizing site? I find a little of everything happening on this site. The topics talked about range from here to there. One cannot guess what they will find on the media post and as far as the membership goes.  We got grease monkeys, techno geeks, photographers, joke tellers, story tellers, and readers. We got workers, retirees, posters, posers, greeters, Teachers, Preachers, and point chasers. We got riders, going to be riders, just became riders, builders, designers, and organizers. We got drivers, boaters, racers, truckers, Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, and Airmen. We got men, women, singers, wives, girlfriends, boyfriends, husbands, fathers , mothers, music writers, and music players. We got public servents, police, first responders of both genders. We got people from various walks of life and in who live in various countries. Talk about diversity we got it!

    The best thing we have is the shared passion for riding and although we are all different this one thing brings us all together. That with the opportunity to be as active or inactive as we want is a big plus. We can choose to express ourselves or choose not to do so. We can post comments, pictures, videos, or we can just sit back and relax, read, or watch and take it all in. Life is good and everyone is welcome.

    Sorry for getting a little long winded but I just had to state why I love this site and make a little comparison between the CC community and the Barber Shop. I hope I did not bore you to death.

    Ride Safe

    RMFIII

     

    

     

    

     

  • Blog post
  • 5 months ago
  • Views: 374

• Looking Down Your Nose!!

  • From: Hiwayprisoner
  • Description:

      I want to pose a question here.  With all the various goings on in the country now, i.e. the banks, foreclosures, economic meltdowns and bailouts, and taxes.  Why is it that we as people who live a lifestyle of riding also choose to fight amongst ourselves about if the bike we choose to ride makes us "less" of an American?  I pose this question because of what I've personally witnessed and been on the receiving end.  Now take myself for instance, and I'm sure I'll receive my share of "potshots" when finished.  I rode H/D's for many years and like alot of folks enjoyed them and the image.  But as time progessed, family matters took precedent and personal pleasures had to take the back seat.  Years later, the kids are grown, hair is grayer, and now there are little ones that refer to you with the word "Grand" in front of your name.  The money situation isn't as "tight" as it was with kids.  As I started to look at bikes again I was disheartened at what the prices had done over the years.  H/D had basically priced me out of the market.  Now there are some that will smugly say that "You just didn't want to spend the money to ride a "Real" bike!!"  No, we had the money for it.  But I couldn't justify paying $8,000 more for a bike simply because of the nameplate.  Hey you big bag of Duh, have you looked at the economy figures?  I wanted to enjoy riding again and have a bike big enough for her to ride with me and still be leaving a fiscal cushion in case things worsen.  I want to ride, but I don't want to be riding it to the poor house.  

      People have pointed out that you're showing your patriotism by buying the "American" bike.  So does that mean that the people who build Kawasaki in Nebraska hate America?  Does it mean that the people who build Subaru cars in Indiana are unpatriotic?  Are how about the folks down south in Alabama, do they hate America because they build Mercedes-Benz?  The world, business-wise is shrinking daily.  Companies are no longer national entities but are now going global.  Who would've thought that Volvo would be under the same corporate umbrella of Ford Motor Company.  What I'm saying here is that buying a certain brand doesn't make you "less" of an american or more so than the next guy.  Did you really care if your neighbor drove a Nissan when 9/11 occured?  Of course not.  So why should you care if the guy the next street over is driving a Ninja or a Softtail?  Good natured ribbing is one thing, but some of the insults that get thrown around are just infantile.  I dare you to go to the Vietnam Vet, sitting on his Goldwing and tell him he doesn't love america enough.  As far as I'm concerned, he's earned his right and fought for mine, to choose whatever bike he wants to buy and ride.  But before you try it, you owe him a handshake and a word of thanks for any and all of those who fought for "your" right to buy one of your choice.

      The sad part of the whole thing is that while someone is smugly looking down their nose at the rider next to them.  You'll never know that he or she could've been someone that could be a lifelong friend and would be there for you when others fold.  Or maybe just somebody you could call on one of those "chilly" days when your other buddies "wuss" out on a ride, this guy or girl would be at the door ready and roaring to go.  I was sitting at a stop light in Loveland, Colorado a few weeks ago.  It was a chilly day, but not so cold that I couldn't pull the bike out for a ride.  As I sit at the light a pickup pulls up next to me pulling a trailer.  On that trailer is a beautifully painted 2006 Softtail with chrome taking up where the paint left off.  I caught eyes with driver and nodded toward his bike and let him know what a nice job it was.  He gave my Vulcan 1600 Classic the once over and gave the look of someone that had stuck his hand into something questionable.  I couldn't help but laugh to myself.  The reason was that if this guy was going to look down his nose at my bike, may I suggest that you try not doing it when you're pulling your good looking bike with a big blue Toyota Tundra!! 

  • Blog post
  • 7 months ago
  • Views: 416

• old friends, new friends

  • From: tonyl
  • Description:

    Thought I would repost this as a reminder as to why we are all here.

    Something about this site strikes me with an innocence we haven't had since we were kids.  Someone reads about you, sees your pictures of bikes, you or whatever and takes an instant liking to you.  Lo' and behold you get mail that says someone wants to be your friend.  Isn't that what it was like as kids but somehow got lost as we grew older??? 

    Sometimes someone will post something that offends another member but and I do mean but, we are all friends and should be able to agree to disagree, just like we do with outside of CC friends.  Nice thing about friends, they accept you just the way you are.

    I have acquired female friends that I would be intimidated to speak to on the street but our bikes and this site give us common ground.  Ain't life amazing?

  • Blog post
  • 1 month ago
  • Views: 91

• Being lucky

  • From: simmbad
  • Description:

    As many of you know Kyle was in an accident last week while on a multi state ride. If you have not already watched Kyle’s video he did just after the accident you should take a look. I really would like everyone to stop and think about this accident. And how Kyle is one every lucky person.

    This Memorial Day weekend I got to sit down with Kyle and talk with him about what happen and is injury. First I would like to point out that he had on very good protective gear, Boots, gloves, pants, jacket and helmet.  Second the bikes saddlebag helped keep Kyle’s leg from getting crushed between the bike and car.

    Kyle was hit from the side by a van traveling somewhere between 40-55mph, this spun Kyle’s bike around, lunching Kyle into the spinning into the air. He landed several feet from where he left the bike.

    Kyle did not go to the hospital after the accident, he should have, this is the time to get seen make sure your not hurt more than you think you are. Kyle waited 8 more days before going to be checked out. Now he gets a pink cast for the next 6 weeks. Kyle also rode 2000 more miles after the accident without knowing how hurt he really was.

    You never want to have accident, but being prepared for one and knowing what to do after one might just save your life or the life of a fellow rider.

    1.       Where good protective gear (it will not help if it’s not worn)

    2.       Have you medical ins info on you (you never know)

    3.       Keep a list of your meds (I am diabetic they ask me every time )

    4.       Do not refuse medical treatment at the scene (you never know how hurt you are)

    5.       If your hurt do not ride (rider safety class one of the first things they say)

    Ride Safe, so you can ride again

  • Blog post
  • 6 months ago
  • Views: 336

• Reasonable considerations

  • From: dmeach
  • Description:

    Way to many motorcycle accidents this year!!!
    
    50 WAYS TO STAY ALIVE ON TWO WHEELS
    1. Assume you're invisible. To a lot of drivers, you are. Never make a move based on the assumption that another driver sees you, even if you've made eye contact. Bikes don't register to the four-wheel mind.
    2. Be considerate. The consequences of strafing the jerk du jour or cutting him off, start out bad and get worse. Pretend it was your grandma and smile.
    3. Dress for the crash, not the pool or the bar. Sure, McDonalds is a 5-minute trip, but nobody plans to eat pavement. Modern mesh gear means 100-degree heat and is no excuse for a T-shirt and shorts.
    4. Hope for the best, prepare for the worst. Assume that car across the intersection will turn across your bow when the light goes green, with or without a turn signal.
    5. Leave your ego at home. The only people who really care if you were faster on the freeway will be the officer and the judge.
    6. Pay attention. Yes, there is a half-naked girl on the billboard. That shock does feels squishy. Meanwhile, you could be drifting toward Big Trouble. Focus.
    7. Mirrors only show you part of the picture. Never change direction without turning your head to make sure the coast really is clear.
    8. Be patient. Always take another second or three before you pull out to pass, ride away from a curb or into freeway traffic from an on-ramp. It's what you don't see that gets you. That extra look could save your butt.
    9. Watch your closing speed. Passing cars at twice their speed or changing lanes to shoot past a row of stopped cars is just asking for trouble.
    10. Beware the verge and the merge. A lot of nasty surprises end up on the sides of the road: empty McDonalds bags, nails, TV antennas, ladders, you name it. Watch for troublesome debris on both sides of the road.
    11. Left-turning cars remain a leading killer of motorcyclists. Don't assume someone will wait for you to dart through the intersection. They're trying to beat the light, too.
    12. Beware of cars running traffic lights. The first few seconds after a signal light changes are the most perilous. Look both ways before barging into an intersection.
    13. Check your mirrors. Do it every time you change lanes, slow down or stop. Be ready to move if another vehicle is about to occupy the space you'd planned to use.
    14. Mind the gap. Remember Drivers Ed? One seconds worth of distance per 10 mph is the old rule of thumb. Better still, scan the next 12 seconds ahead for potential trouble.
    15. Beware of boy racers. They're quick and their drivers tend to be aggressive. Don't assume you've beaten one away from a light or outpaced it in traffic and change lanes without looking. You could end up as a civic hood ornament.
    16. Excessive entrance speed hurts. Its the leading cause of single-bike accidents on twisty roads and racetracks. In Slow, Out Fast is the old adage, and it still works. Dialing up corner speed is safer than scrubbing it off.
    17. Don't trust that deer whistle. Ungulates and other feral beasts prowl at dawn and dusk, so heed those big yellow signs. If you're riding in a target-rich environment, slow down and watch the shoulders.
    18. Learn to use both brakes. The front break does most of the stopping, but use some back brake.
    19. Keep the front brake covered always. Save a single second of reaction time at 60 mph and you can stop 88 feet shorter. Think about that.
    20. Look where you want to go. Use the miracle of target fixation to your advantage. The motorcycle goes where you look, so focus on the solution.
    21. Keep your eyes moving. Traffic is always shifting, so keep scanning for potential trouble. Don't lock your eyes on any one thing for too long unless you're actually dealing with trouble.
    22. Think before you act. Careful whipping around that car going 7 kph in a 30-kph zone or you could end up with your head in the driver's side door when he turns into the driveway right in front of you.
    23. Raise your gaze. It's too late to do anything about the 20 feet immediately in front of your fender, so scan the road far enough ahead to see trouble and change trajectory.instead of the problem.
    24. Get your mind right in the driveway. Most accidents happen during the first 15 minutes of a ride, below 40 mph, near an intersection or driveway. Yes, that could be your driveway.
    25. Come to a full stop at that next stop sign. Put a foot down. Look again. Anything less forces a snap decision with no time to spot potential trouble.
    26. Never dive into a gap in stalled traffic. Cars may have stopped for a reason, and you may not be able to see why until its too late to do anything about it.
    27. Don't saddle up more than you can handle. If you weigh 95 pounds, avoid that 795-pound cruiser. If you're 5-foot-5, forget those towering adventure-tourers.
    28. Watch for car doors opening in traffic. And smacking a car that's swerving around some goofball's open door is just as painful.
    29. Don't get in an intersection rut. Watch for a two-way stop after a string of four-way intersections. If you expect cross-traffic to stop, there could be a painful surprise when it doesn't.
    30. Stay in your comfort zone when you're with a group. Riding over your head is a good way to end up in the ditch. Any bunch worth riding with will have a rendezvous point where you'll be able to link up again.
    31. Give your eyes some time to adjust. A minute or two of low light heading from a well-lighted garage onto dark streets is a good thing. Otherwise, you're essentially flying blind for the first mile or so
    32. Master the slow U-turn. Practice. Park your butt on the outside edge of the seat and lean the bike into the turn, using your body as a counterweight as you pivot around the rear wheel.
    33. Who put a stop sign at the top of this hill? Don't panic. Use the rear brake to keep from rolling back down. Use Mr. Throttle and Mr. Clutch normally and smoothly to pull away.
    34. If it looks slippery, assume it is. A patch of suspicious pavement could be just about anything. Butter Flavor Crisco? Gravel? Mobil 1? Or maybe it's nothing. Better to slow down for nothing than go on your head.
    35. Bang! A blowout! Now what? No sudden moves. The motorcycle isn't happy, so be prepared to apply a little calming muscle to maintain course Ease back the throttle, brake gingerly with the good wheel and pull over very smoothly to the shoulder. Big sigh.
    36. Drops on the face shield? Its raining. Lightly misted pavement can be slipperier than when its been rinsed by a downpour, and you never know how much grip there is. Apply maximum-level concentration, caution and smoothness.
    37. Emotions in check? To paraphrase Mr. Ice Cube, chickity-check yourself before you wreck yourself. Emotions are as powerful as any drug, so take inventory every time you saddle up. If you're mad, sad, exhausted or anxious, stay put.
    38. Wear good gear. Wear stuff that fits you and the weather If you're too hot or too cold or fighting with a jacket that binds across the shoulders, you're dangerous. It's that simple.
    39. Leave the iPod at home. You won't hear that cement truck in time with Spinal Tap cranked to 11, but they might like your headphones in intensive care.
    40. Learn to swerve. Be able to do two tight turns in quick succession. Flick left around the bag of briquettes, then right back to your original trajectory. The bike will follow your eyes, so look at the way around, not the briquettes. Now practice till its a reflex.
    41. Be smooth at low speeds. Take some angst out, especially of slow-speed maneuvers, with a bit of rear brake. It adds a welcome bit of stability by minimizing unwelcome weight transfer and potentially bothersome driveline lash.
    42. Flashing is good for you. Turn signals get your attention by flashing, right? So a few easy taps on the brake pedal or lever before stopping makes your brake light more eye-catching to trailing traffic.
    43. Intersections are scary, so hedge your bets. Put another vehicle between your bike and the possibility of someone running the stop sign/red light on your right and you cut your chances of getting nailed in half.
    44. Tune your peripheral vision. Pick a point near the center of that wall over there. Now scan as far as you can by moving your attention, not your gaze. The more you can see without turning your head, the sooner you can react to trouble.
    45. All alone at a light that won't turn green? Put as much motorcycle as possible directly above the sensor wire usually buried in the pavement beneath you and located by a round or square pattern behind the limit line. If the light still won't change, try putting your kickstand down, right on the wire. You should be on your way in seconds.
    46. Every-thing is harder to see after dark. Even You. Adjust your headlights, Carry a clear face shield and have your game all the way on after dark, especially during commuter hours.
    47. Don't troll next to or right behind Mr. Peterbilt. If one of those 18 retreads blows up, which they do with some regularity it de-treads, and that can be ugly. Unless you like dodging huge chunks of flying rubber, keep your distance.
    48. Take the panic out of panic stops. Develop an intimate relationship with your front brake. Seek out some safe, open pavement. Starting slowly, find that fine line between maximum braking and a locked wheel, and then do it again, and again.
    49. Make your tires right. None of this stuff matters unless your skins are right. Don't take them for granted Make sure pressure is spot-on every time you ride. Check for cuts, nails and other junk they might have picked up, as well as general
    wear.
    50. Take a deep breath. Count to 10. Smile at the idiot. Forgetting some clowns 80-mph indiscretion beats running the risk of ruining your life, or ending it.
    Original Author Unknown
    
    
    

  • Blog post
  • 1 month ago
  • Views: 73

• New Cruiser Customizing Motorc

  • From: manybikes
  • Description:

    The New and Improved Cruiser Customizing Community

    
    
    Since the inception of Cruiser Customizing, we have been deicated to providing information to the riders of metric motorcycles. This original venue allowed bikers to view and submit post purchase product reviews, populate their own member profile pages, and communicate with other members via email. 
    
    
    Membership is FREE and the information and knowledge herein is invaluable! 
    
    
    I am excited to introduce the New Cruiser Customizing Community which hosts advanced member features allowing members to virally share all aspects of their motorcycle lifestyle! The goal of this community is to allow members from around the world to come together and connect so we may share,  and learn from one another allowing us to make the most informed decisions possible.  
    
    
    The New Member Profile also known as the My Bike page allows us to learn about other members lifestyles, their bikes, their accessories, their future products, their rides, their questions, and so much more... 
    
    
    The Story Sharing, Message Boards, and Group sections of the community are some of the best places for your to visit and advance your knowledge as a rider! 
    
    
    The Story Sharing section allows members to share stories about anything motorcycle related and here are some of my favorites: 
    • Install Stories
    • Trip Stories
    • Funny Stories
    • Ride Stories
    • Rally Stories

    The Message Board section is the perfect place to post any motorcycle question and receive answers from fellow bikers around the world! Here are some great examples of members who have had great success in the Message Boards:

    
    

    The Group or Club section of the community allows members with specific interests to find, connect, and communicate easily with one another. Our top 5 most popular groups are as follows: 

    1. Mid-Life Crisis
    2. Shadow Riders
    3. 500 Mile Club
    4. Mexico Group
    5. Members only Area

    JOIN the Cruiser Customizing Community today and become a member of the Largest Worldwide Motorcycle Community! 

  • Blog post
  • 7 months ago
  • Views: 1600

• Bringing Women Together

  • From: MaineMaraudaChi
  • Description:

    If you beleive it, you can achieve it!

  • Blog post
  • 9 months ago
  • Views: 486

• Carb rejet

  • From: mjbearit
  • Description:

    Several of the items we decide we want to put on our bikes require that we rejet our carbs or have our carbs rejetted.  While I encourage people to get to know their bike and how it works with these upgrades, only you can decide if you have the mechanical aptitude for performing this yourself.  In this posting I wanted to show those who may not know, what to expect once they finally get their carbs off the bike.  Now mind you this is from my VStar 1100, but this will give you some idea of the level of complexity and delicacy of a set of carbs no matter what you may be working on.  If you look at these pics and say "I don't have a screwdriver" run do not walk to a mechanic and have them do it for you.  This is one case where the screwdriver may cost more than the mechanic!

    In this fist pic we see the carbs as I took them off the bike (after I drained all the gas from them!) and set them on my bench.  Now you may notice the color.  No, my bench is not painted pink, those are clean shop towels!  I find newspaper works well also.  Make sure you have a clear, clean space before you do anything!

    

    On the bottom of these carbs is the float bowl.  The float bowl houses your jets as they pertain to this project.  What we will be working on will be the main jet and the pilot jet as those are the most common ones you will need to change out.  I have removed the float bowl (I only work on one carb at a time and NEVER separate them!  There is no reason to for this and getting them back together properly is a huge pain!) and set it aside for this picture.  Now some time back I had changed the screws on my float bowls as the ones that come stock are a very soft brass screw and you will most likely have to use needle nosed vice grips to remove them and screw them up totally!  I replaced with a SS hex screw which works much better.  If you get a jet kit, chances are these will be included if your carb is like mine!

    

    In the next two photos you will see close ups of the main and pilot jets.  Note that the size is stamped on the head of the main jet and the shaft of the pilot jet.  These are made of soft brass also.  Make sure you use a screw-driver that fits perfectly so that you do not destroy the jets!  Also on these carbs the main jet is in a holder of sorts that extends it up higher.  I had to use a wrench to hold the extender to remove the jet.  When you replace these they should be snug to fairly tight.  Do not crank them down as hard as you can!

    

     

     

     

     

    When you are done and you put the float bowl back, it will probably be a bit difficult, do not force it!  Play with it a bit and you will feel it snap into place!  I use a little Blue Loctite on the float bowl screws just so they don't vibrate out later.  Do yourself a favor and do not use the Red Loctite.  Stronger is not better!  Don't ask how I know this!  So once both carbs have the bottom end done, I move on to changing out the needle or add/remove shims, whatever is required.  To do this, we have to go to the top of the carbs.  Now the bottom will not rest flat on the bench and the parts can be fairly delicate, so I just keep a roll of duct tape handy, lay the roll down flat and it creates a perfect cradle for the carbs.  Here is the top

    

    Under these black "caps" are the diaphram and needle assemblies.  First I take this picture.  That way as I am reassembling it I don't do something stupid and put a bracket in the wrong place or whatever and have to redo the whole thing!  Now I unscrew this while holding the cap!  There is a spring involved here and it will come flying out if you are not careful!

    

    Once we have that off and set aside, we remove the diaphram and needle assembly.  The diaphram is a very thin rubber (or rubber like material) and while fairly tough can be damaged easily.  They can also be fairly expensive depending on your carbs and the age of your bike!  At any rate, they just lift right out

    

    Once we have them out, we are going to take a pair of needle-nosed pliars and pull the needle assembly out of the housing.  Now these are very snall plastic parts so no gorilla strength should be used as these parts too can be expensive!  On my carbs they are held in by friction and come out fairly easily with a slight pull and screwing motion.  A lot of people will recommend doing this part with the diaphram and needle assembly in a clear plastic bag, as again, we will be dealing with a spring that can fly off in some direction and may never be seen again!  Once you get this apart you will be looking at the needle, spring, shim(s) and the holder or keeper.

    

    When reinserting the finished diaphram and assembly into the carb, be very careful!  Make sure the needle lines up with the holes, etc.  It is pretty easy to damage a needle and a damaged needle needs to be replaced.  You can never straighten it out or whatever to make it function the way it should.

    Well while these are not exactly instructions for rejetting your bike, I hope it gives you kind of an overview and helps you to decide whether or not this is something you are able to tackle without a mechanic.  So two small facts on that.  First I've found that if I work on it first and then have a mechanic "fix" it it usually costs more money.  Secondly, there is no shame in realizing that something is beyond you ability to perform.  I won't attempt brain surgery for that very reason...well okay and because I think it's kind of gross!

    Ride safe

    Mike

  • Blog post
  • 7 months ago
  • Views: 655

• A big Thanks for mjbearit

  • From: Bikinjb
  • Description:

    A big thanks to mjbearit. If any of you have had the opportunity to get a response to a question From mjbearit, or had a question answered by reading one of his reponses to someone elses question he exemplifes what this site is all about. He saw somewhere we were going to be in his area, and immediatey contacted me about taking us for a tour in San Diego if we liked. He had previously answered a question of mine about rejetting wifeys 650 Vstar, and he even went to his local dealer to look at one so he could answer my question more acturately. Kids he knows his stuff. Thanks for your time, the tour was great, one of those things we'll always remember about our trip. I had a cocktail in my "Phils BBQ" cup last weekend. Hope to see you again someday soon.  Bikinjb

     (he also got the whole "John & Mary's Big Adventure" thing started. Very clever.)

  • Blog post
  • 4 months ago
  • Views: 151

• Got It...

  • From: calitobias
  • Description:

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

    I went to DMV and got my license yesterday. So now I am ready for a long distance ride. Thanks to Jim at my local DMV and Kyle the test was a breeze.  I think if you haven't taken the California ride test you might want to stop by on a Sunday and give it a go...

    If you're near Turlock drop me a line and we'll go grab a beer and a taco.

  • Blog post
  • 9 months ago
  • Views: 333

• Crash Report

  • From: manybikes
  • Description:

    Thank you all for your your worries and cares! Family and Friend Update: Yesterday I tried my damndest! Went to 3 different hospitals who would not help me as I am Kaiser and it was not life or limb. Closest Kaiser was 4 hours away... Went to two local Orthopedics... they would not help either. After 2.5 hours on the phone with CA Kaiser... i gave up...

    Here are photos of my foot... 24 hours after the accident

  • Video blog post
  • 6 months ago
  • Views: 448

• Sale! Kuryakyn! Last Chance fo

  • From: manybikes
  • Description:

    YO Community Members! If I did not bring this HUGE sale opportunity to your attention... shame on me! Below you will find links to the TOP selling Kuryakyn products which are currently on sale.  --> Manybikes Last chance for the 2008 discounts on Kuryakyn Chrome Accessories for your Metric Motorcycle: 18-60% OFF THIS WEEK Kuryakyn has announced a change in 2009 for their pricing policies. Take advantage before our discounting is limited! Purchase $199 or more and you get FREE SHIPPING, a FREE Cruiser Customizing t-shirt, and a FREE Cruiser Customizing key chain! Just add these products to your cart before you check out! - Cruiser keychain - Cruiser t-shirt VIEW ALL KURYAKYN PARTS FOR YOUR METRIC MOTORCYCLE: MOST POPULAR >> HIGHEST RATED >> BEST PRICE >>

    Kuryakyn ISO-Throttle Boss Added to the popular Kuryakyn ISO-Grips, this little jewel can make all the diff ... MSRP: $16.99 Price: $13.93 Kuryakyn Universal Iso Grips, Vulcans, Stars, Suzuki's Now, just about any popular cruiser can be fit with the incredibly comfortable K ... MSRP: $69.95 Price: $59.95 Kuryakyn Stiletto End Caps for ISO-Grips (PAIR) Transform the look of your ISO-Grips with these radical replacement end caps. Sp ... MSRP: $39.99 Price: $32.79 Kuryakyn License Frame and Back Plate Set This baby streamlines and cleans up your plate beautifully. You’ll find our all- ... MSRP: $19.99 Price: $16.39 Kuryakyn Dually ISO Pegs without ends - (pair) Küryakyn makes it possible to replace your functional but unappealing stock foot ... MSRP: $59.99 Price: $49.95 Kuryakyn Shift Peg Cover - Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha Models This hot looking cover adds a custom touch in minutes. Designed to encapsulate t ... MSRP: $18.99 Price: $15.57 Kuryakyn Dually Footpegs with Offset Mounts and 1-1/4 inch Clamps - Pair These highway pegs utilize our unique offset mount to allow riders a range of ad ... MSRP: $139.99 Price: $114.79 Kuryakyn ISO®-Grips Replacement Accent Rings Replacement accent rings allow you to further customize your ride. Longer screws ... MSRP: $7.99 Price: $6.55 Kuryakyn Ellipse Mirrors - Flat Glass - Pair These state of the art custom mirrors provide a sleek, streamlined alternative t ... MSRP: $99.99 Price: $81.99 Kuryakyn Large ISO Pegs without ends - (pair) Küryakyn makes it possible to replace your functional but unappealing stock foot ... MSRP: $36.99 Price: $29.95 Kuryakyn Shift Peg Cover - Oval Pegs 5/8 in wide (or less) Our classy chrome and rubber "clam-shell" design shift peg cover replaces the dr ... MSRP: $18.95 Price: $15.54 Kuryakyn ISO Wings without ends - Pair Küryakyn makes it possible to replace your functional but unappealing stock foot ... MSRP: $89.99 Price: $74.95 Kuryakyn Small Halogen Silver Bullets w/ 3/8 in-16 Hollow Mounting Bolt (pair) - Clear Lens Küryakyn's Halogen Silver Bullets are assembled with high-shock, heavy duty sing ... MSRP: $89.99 Price: $73.79 Kuryakyn Universal Helmet Lock This helmet lock mounts to any 7/8" through 1-1/4" bar. The chrome lock mounts t ... MSRP: $19.99 Price: $16.39 Kuryakyn Small ISO Pegs without ends - (pair) Küryakyn makes it possible to replace your functional but unappealing stock foot ... MSRP: $34.99 Price: $29.95 Kuryakyn Phantom Covers for V-Star - Left and Right Side These awesome rear axle/hub covers work wonders on the back wheels of V-Star 110 ... MSRP: $79.95 Price: $65.56 Kuryakyn Passenger Footboard - Pair This system allows the mounting of our new ISO-Boards to passenger mounts on pop ... MSRP: $199.99 Price: $163.99 Kuryakyn Universal Throttle Boss™ Regardless of what type of bike you ride, the Universal Throttle Boss will make ... MSRP: $10.99 Price: $9.01 Kuryakyn Replacement H-4 Bulbs - 55/60 watt H-4 (Blue) Looking for better lighting? Then check these bulbs out! 55/60 watt H-4 (Premium ... MSRP: $11.99 Price: $9.83 Kuryakyn Turn Signal Mirrors with Flat Glass - Pair This Küryakyn original looks good coming and going. From the drivers seat, they ... MSRP: $189.99 Price: $159.95

  • Blog post
  • 9 months ago
  • Views: 481

• Chance to win $200

  • From: manybikes
  • Description:

    Click here to read the whole : RideGear.com

    CLICK YES AND WIN $200

    Everyone that joins our email list will be entered in a drawing for $200 towards motorcycle parts and accessories on RideGear.com or any website in the Cruiser Customizing, Inc. family. You must click Yes below by 11:59 p.m. PST on Tuesday, March 31, 2009 to be included in the drawing. The winner will be contacted on April 3, 2009 via email.

    Just to keep you all in the loop!

    Kyle

    Kyle Bradshaw

    Community Director

    Cruiser Customizing - Shared Passion. Individual Style.

    http://www.CruiserCustomizing.com/manybikes

     

     

  • Blog post
  • 8 months ago
  • Views: 238

• Member Cuts

  • From: als1953
  • Description:

    I regret to inform you that due to my worsening economic position, I no longer have enough time to dedicate to the CC Community site. If I log out for 10 hours, 10 pages of new photos and  a plethora of comments appear on my return! I can no longer cope with this increasing load and as a result, drastic measures must be taken. Therefore, membership will be restricted. Also existing members will need to pass a harsh suitability test. Oh... bugger! Who am I kidding? We couldn't get rid of anyone in here. Great to see all you guys/gals/others (pick the most suitable category) in here. The increase in the photos and comments was no random figure. Shows what a great community we have. Well done and keep it up! (No viagra comments from you Mr Baker! )

  • Blog post
  • 9 months ago
  • Views: 293

• A Talking Frog

  • From: Hiwayprisoner
  • Description:

    An old cowboy was showing the young cowboy the lay of the land.

    As they rode the back 1000 acres they came across a stream.

    Getting down to water the horses they notice a large boulder next to the stream.

    On that boulder sat a frog.

    All at once the frog began to speak.

    "Hi, I'm actually a beautiful princess that was cursed and turned into a frog.  If you kiss me I will turn back into a princess and if so, I will stay with you and love you the rest of your life.  Never a night will pass that I don't make mad passionate love to you.  Cater to your every need.  Be loyal and true and be by your side forever."

    The old cowboy picked up the frog, staring into it's eyes.  As he stood and thought, he then put the frog in his pocket.

    The young cowboy became excited, exclaiming " Didn't you hear what she said and what she was offering?"

    The old cowboy nodded his head as he climbed back onto his horse.  He said, " Yep, and at my age, all things considered.  I'd rather have the talking frog."

  • Blog post
  • 6 months ago
  • Views: 182

• May Membership Level Rewards!

  • From: manybikes
  • Description:

    Good Morning,

    Attention Community Members! Kyle Bradshaw (manybikes) of Cruiser Customizing here!

    Month 2 of Membership Levels has passed... and I am excited to watch, read, comment, and rate all of your awesome contributions!

    Last months awards have not yet been fulfilled as I was working on an on-line tool to assist in that process. It has been completed... please read below!

    I want to take a moment to personally thank you for all of your great controbutions here in the Cruiser Customizing Community! I know that I have personally benefited from the information which has been shared... and I get emails daily from members thanking us for the benefits they they have received from this wonderful community.

    Membership levels have been in place for just about two months now... and now it is time to recognize all of you who have reached our member ship levels! 

    Big Kudos goes out to als1953 our top contributor with over 7500 points to date! You go Albert!

    In the month of May the following members have have surpassed the following membership levels:

    5000 points Country Rider = Cruiser Customizing Sweatshirt! In the month of May the following members reached the level of State Rider Membership:
    manybikes, als1953, Grayhorse, moreland4, geoffbaker
    

    2000 point State Rider = Cruiser Customizing Pint Glass!  In the month of May the following members reached the level of State Rider Membership:
    Cehszar, simmbad, Bikinjb, uwe999, Luuna800, PioneerGirl, Wolfye, mcornelsen, Prop3, jeandesro, copperguy, PhilCole, gostr8r, brentward, Hiwayprisoner, vulcman2007, Shane0702, FreeBear, tigz
    

    1000 Point City Riders = Cruiser Customizing T-shirt (and Key Chain) Check out all of this months City Riders!
    TIMTHEGAS, RMFIII, Gibbysbike, BODYDOC, ynkmup, mjbearit, tapo, crAzyAce, jeandesro, darkrenegade, ssgbguard, VixRock, shadowfox, ponchalaloca, Matt01, munchkin1, kiko2, gostr8r, snake06, RobClever, Ferg55, juddgoodrich, redneck88, scott02, roadie07, daRizz, madcow, cruising01, douviva, smplemn, iovo1966, mingemand, skott6977, TheTopTron, bravo4 shadyspirit750
    

    500 Point Neighborhood Riders = Cruiser Customizing Key Chain Check out all of this months City Riders!
    scruffy, wattdachshund, jack42, onetopp, jojosmiles, poohtur, droverb, Stormryder, flyer49, JustChris, FearlessDreamer, TheRedBaron, mt2stepper, LAWDOG691, Jemmett, AeroButch08, Runester, MikeSr1963, suzukiboy60, Serpent, rureaedy, bigj1967, wildcatcrzy, scruffy1, caheinicken, karmahappens, ketkerek, mrmike, VTX-XXX, v4cruiser, osacrosacr1, ronsigns, kroch10, jadegoodrich, rgsaps2737, misfit1, Annie888, dmeach, brb318, pjd1952, pvensel, spike1519, jacobgaul, BornBlazer, verlin, ghostbiker, larry1300R, lastchance2, indyn, shodan, lordquadio, rtmac, gage75, BearKiller, scottkilowatt, khughes, elgordo, TattooedBiker, mato, owen231, josen64, CoachDan, wmccoy548, rlachapelle, Dennisd, vatwindad, tr3y003, pasnbyu, RedSarge, Idaho, Lee_2061, stredenick, Aldooo13, fire1100, starbuck702, SunnyBlue, jeeplover, mizuez, bigbrunk, lennoxj, luisjavier, semperfi1037, bluestarbiker, dettigerfan77, smk1974, cyrus1100, lamjaz, MADZUKI, rcovill, ort1z, keithtalik, CougarExiT, Fryinbryan, chepe26, q8DRAGON, gorananki, busajack, MotoManiac, RavenKam, tflaim, WOODY621, johnyeo888, rudster, jim603, hipguy, liljohn, rolldog, vegajj, kristinn, rapid, spidervtx, usamljenijahac, mavericksdad, terry42, dinol70, raafat, tribalwolf, orrman, gadevaal, indiana1120, ffricke, chuy59, polo, BUPD19, sailorfoot, MEANDMY, AmishHitman, Fladge rosati, pocketpistol, vivalv59, steve1583

    What's Next???

    All of you who reached obtained the City, State, or Country Rider Membership Levels, I have sent you an email asking you to fill out an online form so I may import your info and send your your goodies! I need your response by 6/15/2009 in order to fulfill this month!

    If you did not receive your email, you may click this link to be taken to the on-line form Free Gifts

    For all of our Neighborhood riders who have all earned a Key Chain, Key Chains will be mailed wrappped in a Cruiser Customizing T-shirt once you reach the City Rider Membership Level. You are half way there! All of you who reach the City Rider level by next month, I will mail your Key Chain wrapped in your Cruiser Customizing T-shirt.

    Thank you all for your participation!

    What's New?

    Be on the lookout for a point rich Refer a Biker program here in the next couple days! We will be granting 10 points for each friend you refer and 250 points for each friend who in turn becomes a member!

    Thanks again for your participation in making the Cruiser Customizing Community the worlds largest On-line biker community!

    Ride safe!

    Kyle Bradhaw   aka: manybikes
    Community Director

  • Blog post
  • 5 months ago
  • Views: 229

• Careless UNINSURED Drivers!

  • From: manybikes
  • Description:

    Scary! Scary! Scary!

    My friend and fellow VTX rider of several years just recently was hit from behind by a Van while he was commuting on his Honda VTX across a bridge here in the bay area of California. Jeff was hit from behind, thrown over his bike... and landed on the guard rail ... teetering ... almost falling down, down, down into the chilly water of the San Francisco Bay! Yes... the same bay in which Alcatraz resides!

    Jeff says:

    "I’m lucky to be alive…The bozo that hit me has no CA license or insurance, just a Mexico DL.  Jeff"

    All in all ... Jeff is "ok" and is now fighting whith his insurance company. They do not want to give him credit for any of his "aftermarket accessories." 

    Get better soon Jeff!

    Kyle

  • Blog post
  • 4 months ago
  • Views: 577

• Controversial??? May is Motorc

  • From: karmahappens
  • Description:

     

    Hey everyone, you probably are already aware that it is motorcycle safety month.  Here at Cruiser Customizing we are serious about safety, we advocate safety gear, and not just because we sell it, its because we use it.  

    I was interested in doing some promotions around safety this month, and I wanted to get the community's feedback before I jumped in.  I know that safety can sometimes be perceived by riders as an infringement on their personal rights, so I wanted to understand the climate in the cruiser space and the opinion that you, my trusted friends have about it.

    We know what gear is superior when it comes to protection in a crash, and I want to know if you would find it offensive and an affront to your rights if we told you about it!

    Let me know your thoughts...

     

  • Blog post
  • 6 months ago
  • Views: 219

• Cruiser Customizing Membership

  • From: manybikes
  • Description:

    Good Morning,

    Attention Community Members! Kyle Bradshaw (manybikes) of Cruiser Customizing here!

    I want to take the time to personally thank you for all of your great controbutions here in the Cruiser Customizing Community! I know that I have personally benefited from the information which has been shared... and I get emails daily from members thanking us for the benefits they they have received from this wonderful community.

    Membership levels have been in place for just about a month now... and now it is time to recognize all of you who have reached our member ship levels! 

    Big Kudos goes out to GreyHorse our top contributor with over 5000 points to date! You go GreyHorse!

    In the month of April the following members have have surpassed the following membership levels:

    5000 points Country Rider = Cruiser Customizing Sweatshirt! In the month of April the following members reached the level of State Rider Membership:
    manybikes, Grayhorse

    2000 point State Rider = Cruiser Customizing Pint Glass!  In the month of April the following members reached the level of State Rider Membership:
    moreland4, als1953, geoffbaker, simmbad, uwe999, Cehszar, PioneerGirl, Bikinjb

    1000 Point City Riders = Cruiser Customizing T-shirt (and Key Chain) Check out all of this months City Riders!
    Luuna800, Wolfye, PhilCole, jeandesro, Prop3, Hiwayprisoner, vulcman2007, mjbearit, tigz, FreeBear, gostr8r, ponchalaloca, copperguy, VixRock, brentward, shadowfox

    500 Point Neighborhood Riders = Cruiser Customizing Key Chain Check out all of this months City Riders!
    ynkmup, smplemn, tapo, crAzyAce, Ferg55 ,droverb, scott02, douviva, daRizz, redneck88, cruising01, ketkerek, darkrenegade, TIMTHEGAS, madcow, bigj1967, roadie07, onetopp, BODYDOC, poohtur, scruffy1, mt2stepper, rgsaps2737, bravo4, pvensel, v4cruiser, mingemand, shadyspirit750, Shane0702, spike1519, VTX-XXX, larry1300R, scruffy, osacrosacr1, mrmike, TattooedBiker, mcornelsen, skott6977, kiko2, elgordo, rureaedy, Lee_2061' lennoxj, Serpent' Gibbysbike, Stormryder, lamjaz, bluestarbiker, jack42, indyn, BearKiller, ghostbiker, spidervtx,johnyeo888, jeeplover, kristinn, CougarExiT Fryinbryan, bigbrunk, WOODY621, rudster

    What's Next???

    All of you who reached obtained the City Rider Membership Level, I have sent you an email asking for your T-shirt size and address. I need your response by 5/11/2009 in order to fulfill this month! For all City Rider email responses I receive by 5/11... I will process and mail your T-shirts and Key Chains.

    For all of our Neighborhood riders who have all earned a Key Chain, Key Chains will be mailed wrappped in a Cruiser Customizing T-shirt once you reach the City Rider Membership Level. You are half way there! All of you who reach the City Rider level by next month, I will mail your Key Chain wrapped in your Cruiser Customizing T-shirt.

    Thank you all for your participation!

    What's New?

    Be on the lookout for a point rich Refer a Biker program here in the next couple days! We will be granting 10 points for each friend you refer and 250 points for each friend who in turn becomes a member!

    Thanks again for your participation in making the Cruiser Customizing Community the worlds largest On-line biker community!

    Ride safe!

    Kyle Bradhaw   aka: manybikes
    Community Director

  • Blog post
  • 6 months ago
  • Views: 252