With motorcycle riding season hitting its peak here in Florida, I was hoping to use the opportunity to cruise and document my trips.
Yeah, that's not going to happen.
Last week, someone decided to leave yard tools propped up inside the garage door tracks. They weren't in the way of the clearance sensor so the door began to close normally. Once it got about halfway down, it hit the tools and damaged the garage door. So now, my motorcycle is stuck inside a garage with a broken door. Needless to say this was an unforeseen and completely unnecessary event. Common sense would tell you to not leave something in the path of a moving object, especially one as frequently used as a garage door.
With a new roof currently going on the house and two walls being gutted and repaired for water damage, replacing a garage door system isn't a priority, and the resources have already been allocated for the other repair projects. I'm not upset that the door can't be replaced/repaired soon, I'm upset because the incident happened.
So now, the cars will be stuck outside and the motorcycle will be stuck inside. This angers me because we're all disrupted by it.
In the meantime, I'll attempt to post about different topics in an attempt to kill some time.
-James
Showing posts with label Blogger. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Blogger. Show all posts
Thursday, November 13, 2014
Saturday, November 1, 2014
A Change In The Biker Community
Good afternoon!
I would like to address something I've noticed lately concerning the motorcycle community. This of course is just my opinion. I'd like to know how other riders feel about this, so be sure to let me know what you think.
A few weeks ago when my wife and I ventured to Daytona Beach, Florida for Biketoberfest, I couldn't help but notice that most bikers seem less friendly these days. The respect and acknowledgement that bikers have for each other seems to be dwindling.
In my opinion, it's protocol for a biker to nod their head or throw a wave to a fellow biker as they cross paths as a sign of acknowledgement and respect. Driving a motorcycle sets you apart from other drivers on the road. In a sense, it is a brotherhood. Of course there are more distinguished groups of bikers in Motorcycle Clubs who have their own rules and regulations, but even for those MC members, is nodding to your fellow rider not a classic gesture?
On our Daytona trip, only a handful of the hundreds of bikers we encountered responded to our gestures. I certainly understand everything is situational. If it's not a safe time to take your hands off the controls, then of course don't do it, but I take issue with those bikers who act as if it's beneath them to return acknowledgement.
My father used to avoid waving to other bikers on the highway, and one day I asked him why. His answer was simple: 'Why should I risk my life by taking my hand off the controls at speed just to wave to someone? My life is more important.' He certainly brought up a valid point, but I don't believe that is the mind set of every biker on the road, especially if you consider a large number of riders don't even wear basic protective gear.
I've also noticed an increase in wreckless and careless driving practices on the road. If I'm at a stop light, I have no problem if another motorcyclist pulls up next to me and waits for the green light, but I have a huge problem with bikers who drive really close to me or directly beside me in the same lane. In my opinion, that is a blatant disreguard to my personal safety and to theirs as well. What happens if I end up having to swerve or God forbid I lay down the bike? I'm going to take out the other motorcycle as well. Or if they have to make a quick adjustment, I could be killed or seriously injured. There needs to be a basic understanding of the environment and riding conditions, and I don't feel many bikers have that. Basic motorcycle etiquette is at an all time low.
My final argument derives from the type of motorcycles/motorcyclists I see on America's roadways. Harley-Davidson. I get it, they're America's classic motorcycle manufacturer and nothing screams red, white, and blue more than an American motorcycle. I actually take issue with this. It isn't the fact that they ride a Harley, it's the manner in which they do it, and how they carry themselves. I am annoyed by massive motorcycles covered in hundreds of dollars of chrome accessories on the road, being ridden by people who are more or less trying to create this "image" of what a motorcycle rider should look like. No helmets, faux leather vests on 900 pound monster Harley's with massive body panels, sometimes blasting their music down the road. It's almost as if they're going for this "look", they all look the exact same, and don't have any regard for their personal safety, or for the safety of others (based on how they ride). That, combined with how they present themselves on the road - arrogant, cocky, as my dad would say "king shit on turd island". When in reality, they really look foolish, ignorant, and many of them are really assholes.
One of my best friends from my military days rides a Harley, and my father-in-law owns a Road King. I've driven them, and I'm presenting my argument based off facts and experience. I do see their appeal, especially for long rides or cross-country adventures. But the attitude and personality of the bikers is changing for the worse. The belief that a person must be a "bad ass" to ride because of chrome accessories on an enormous bike is incredibly elementary. I own a 2008 Kawasaki Versys and a 1976 Triumph Tiger 750, but because I don't own a Sherman tank on 2 wheels, myself and others find ourselves looked down upon and shunned by these new upstart bikers who don't know the first thing about quality motorcycle sportsmanship.
I'm interested in hearing the opinions from other riders out there. Is my view on this subject to be considered "old school"? Or does anyone else feel the same way?
-James
I would like to address something I've noticed lately concerning the motorcycle community. This of course is just my opinion. I'd like to know how other riders feel about this, so be sure to let me know what you think.
A few weeks ago when my wife and I ventured to Daytona Beach, Florida for Biketoberfest, I couldn't help but notice that most bikers seem less friendly these days. The respect and acknowledgement that bikers have for each other seems to be dwindling.
In my opinion, it's protocol for a biker to nod their head or throw a wave to a fellow biker as they cross paths as a sign of acknowledgement and respect. Driving a motorcycle sets you apart from other drivers on the road. In a sense, it is a brotherhood. Of course there are more distinguished groups of bikers in Motorcycle Clubs who have their own rules and regulations, but even for those MC members, is nodding to your fellow rider not a classic gesture?
On our Daytona trip, only a handful of the hundreds of bikers we encountered responded to our gestures. I certainly understand everything is situational. If it's not a safe time to take your hands off the controls, then of course don't do it, but I take issue with those bikers who act as if it's beneath them to return acknowledgement.
My father used to avoid waving to other bikers on the highway, and one day I asked him why. His answer was simple: 'Why should I risk my life by taking my hand off the controls at speed just to wave to someone? My life is more important.' He certainly brought up a valid point, but I don't believe that is the mind set of every biker on the road, especially if you consider a large number of riders don't even wear basic protective gear.
I've also noticed an increase in wreckless and careless driving practices on the road. If I'm at a stop light, I have no problem if another motorcyclist pulls up next to me and waits for the green light, but I have a huge problem with bikers who drive really close to me or directly beside me in the same lane. In my opinion, that is a blatant disreguard to my personal safety and to theirs as well. What happens if I end up having to swerve or God forbid I lay down the bike? I'm going to take out the other motorcycle as well. Or if they have to make a quick adjustment, I could be killed or seriously injured. There needs to be a basic understanding of the environment and riding conditions, and I don't feel many bikers have that. Basic motorcycle etiquette is at an all time low.
My final argument derives from the type of motorcycles/motorcyclists I see on America's roadways. Harley-Davidson. I get it, they're America's classic motorcycle manufacturer and nothing screams red, white, and blue more than an American motorcycle. I actually take issue with this. It isn't the fact that they ride a Harley, it's the manner in which they do it, and how they carry themselves. I am annoyed by massive motorcycles covered in hundreds of dollars of chrome accessories on the road, being ridden by people who are more or less trying to create this "image" of what a motorcycle rider should look like. No helmets, faux leather vests on 900 pound monster Harley's with massive body panels, sometimes blasting their music down the road. It's almost as if they're going for this "look", they all look the exact same, and don't have any regard for their personal safety, or for the safety of others (based on how they ride). That, combined with how they present themselves on the road - arrogant, cocky, as my dad would say "king shit on turd island". When in reality, they really look foolish, ignorant, and many of them are really assholes.
One of my best friends from my military days rides a Harley, and my father-in-law owns a Road King. I've driven them, and I'm presenting my argument based off facts and experience. I do see their appeal, especially for long rides or cross-country adventures. But the attitude and personality of the bikers is changing for the worse. The belief that a person must be a "bad ass" to ride because of chrome accessories on an enormous bike is incredibly elementary. I own a 2008 Kawasaki Versys and a 1976 Triumph Tiger 750, but because I don't own a Sherman tank on 2 wheels, myself and others find ourselves looked down upon and shunned by these new upstart bikers who don't know the first thing about quality motorcycle sportsmanship.
I'm interested in hearing the opinions from other riders out there. Is my view on this subject to be considered "old school"? Or does anyone else feel the same way?
-James
Monday, October 20, 2014
Georgia On My Mind
I apologize for the delay, this post was supposed to be added last week, but life intervened. You all know how that goes.
On October 11, my wife and I threw on our gear and headed up to Georgia.
Initially, our plan was to ride to St. Augustine and enjoy the Atlantic Coast. However, due to a late start, we decided to remain inland and travel up to Georgia. Couldn't ask for better weather on our journey, high of 83 with a nice breeze, few clouds.
To start out our trip, we had lunch in nearby High Springs at The Diner. Throughout my childhood, this restaurant changed ownership a couple of times. When I was in high school it was known as Floyd's Diner - a 1950's classic cafe. It still maintains that 50's vibe today, with reasonable prices and a decent menu.
After lunch, we proceeded North on US HWY 441. The plan was to take 441 all the way up to Georgia, passing through Lake City, White Springs, & Jasper. The traffic was fairly light, especially for a Saturday. Only ran into trouble as we entered Lake City, there's always that one driver who doesn't understand the concept of cruise control on their vehicle, and they continuously sped up & slowed down. This particular vehicle kept crawling up my back side and then dropping off. I wasn't in a rush, nor was I going too slow or too fast. Just kept going 65, but pulled off once I got into town to allow him to pass me. I wasn't interested in having to deal with that.
The country side really opened up just north of Lake City, limited traffic allowed my wife and I to take in the sights. I'm lucky enough to live just south of the Suwannee River Valley, and the geography of that region is very enjoyable. Crossing the Suwannee & Ichetuknee Rivers almost makes you forget you're in Florida, as the topography gives way to hills and curved roads. There aren't too many places in Florida like this, & discovering them is a real treat.
North of Lake City is the town of White Springs. Founded at the turn of the 20th Century, White Springs gives visitors a great experience of "small town USA". Massive Oak Trees line the roads, with the focal point of the town being the White Springs Bed & Breakfast, which was founded in 1905. White Springs even comes complete with a volunteer fire department! While we didn't stop, the sight seeing tour was enjoyable.
It seemed that every "wrong turn" I took lead us to better sights and better roads. Couldn't go wrong with that trip. It's a short 2-3 hour trip, but it's a nice way to burn a Saturday afternoon. The road into Georgia was long and empty on this day, and as I stood there on the State Line, I found myself being drawn into Georgia. While I didn't really venture across, I stood there looking down that lonely highway wanting to know what's down there. Where would this road take me? With nothing but swamps & fields as far as the eye could see, I wonder what was at the end of that lonely highway. Perhaps one day I'll venture further North to see what lies ahead.
On October 11, my wife and I threw on our gear and headed up to Georgia.
Initially, our plan was to ride to St. Augustine and enjoy the Atlantic Coast. However, due to a late start, we decided to remain inland and travel up to Georgia. Couldn't ask for better weather on our journey, high of 83 with a nice breeze, few clouds.
To start out our trip, we had lunch in nearby High Springs at The Diner. Throughout my childhood, this restaurant changed ownership a couple of times. When I was in high school it was known as Floyd's Diner - a 1950's classic cafe. It still maintains that 50's vibe today, with reasonable prices and a decent menu.
After lunch, we proceeded North on US HWY 441. The plan was to take 441 all the way up to Georgia, passing through Lake City, White Springs, & Jasper. The traffic was fairly light, especially for a Saturday. Only ran into trouble as we entered Lake City, there's always that one driver who doesn't understand the concept of cruise control on their vehicle, and they continuously sped up & slowed down. This particular vehicle kept crawling up my back side and then dropping off. I wasn't in a rush, nor was I going too slow or too fast. Just kept going 65, but pulled off once I got into town to allow him to pass me. I wasn't interested in having to deal with that.
The country side really opened up just north of Lake City, limited traffic allowed my wife and I to take in the sights. I'm lucky enough to live just south of the Suwannee River Valley, and the geography of that region is very enjoyable. Crossing the Suwannee & Ichetuknee Rivers almost makes you forget you're in Florida, as the topography gives way to hills and curved roads. There aren't too many places in Florida like this, & discovering them is a real treat.
North of Lake City is the town of White Springs. Founded at the turn of the 20th Century, White Springs gives visitors a great experience of "small town USA". Massive Oak Trees line the roads, with the focal point of the town being the White Springs Bed & Breakfast, which was founded in 1905. White Springs even comes complete with a volunteer fire department! While we didn't stop, the sight seeing tour was enjoyable.
It seemed that every "wrong turn" I took lead us to better sights and better roads. Couldn't go wrong with that trip. It's a short 2-3 hour trip, but it's a nice way to burn a Saturday afternoon. The road into Georgia was long and empty on this day, and as I stood there on the State Line, I found myself being drawn into Georgia. While I didn't really venture across, I stood there looking down that lonely highway wanting to know what's down there. Where would this road take me? With nothing but swamps & fields as far as the eye could see, I wonder what was at the end of that lonely highway. Perhaps one day I'll venture further North to see what lies ahead.
On the way back home, we stopped in Live Oak to stretch our legs & to give our butts a rest. A nice cold slushie from the local Burger King did the trick as we rested in the parking lot under some trees. If you've lived in Florida as long as I have, you pretty much know where the most enjoyable places are. Florida has an abundance of small towns, but the majority aren't worth the trip. The Atlantic Coast is preferrable to the Gulf Coast (in my opinion), even though the Gulf does have a few hidden gems. Just a quick shot north of Lake City opens up an area of Florida that I find most enjoyable.
Thanks for reading. Ride safe.
-James
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
2015 Kawasaki Versys 650 @ INTERMOT 2014
Good morning, everyone.
This news broke yesterday afternoon, so I apologize for the delay. My source for the photos is asphaltandrubber.com, with the article link listed here. They also have information on the new Kawasaki Ninja H2R, BMW R1200R & RS, along with many other models, so be sure to check them out!
That being said, let's get into it.
For those of you who don't know, INTERMOT is the International Motorcycle, Scooter & E-bike Show that takes place in Cologne, Germany every October. Countries from all over the world come to show off their new models of two-wheeled machines. For comparison, it's like the Detroit Auto Show, and the E3 Conference for the video gaming community, if not bigger.
There have been a couple of "leaked" photos of the various 2015 Versys concepts over the past year, with some speculating that Kawasaki is making an 800cc variant, but they've all been identified as fakes. While I can't say with absolute certainty that Kawasaki won't be making an 800cc Versys some time in the future, fans of the model were able to quickly identify this below image as nothing more than an "I wish" design.
The second thing we notice from this picture is the addition of an adjustable windscreen. I personally am intrigued by this because by adding that feature, it reduces the riders need to by a custom/aftermarket windscreen to fit their needs. I applaud Kawasaki's desire to make the bike more rider friendly and customizable. Also notice the angular mirrors that have carried over from the 2010 model. It's a great look and I'm glad Kawasaki has continued that on the 2015.
Looking at the controls, not much seems different. Horn, signals, hazards, and high/low beam controls on the left, electric starter and kill switch on the right. The addition of what could be a fog light switch is on the right just below the mirror. The display looks much cleaner than previous models, with the tachometer mounted above the digital spedometer and panel lights. I'm curious to find out more about red circular display on the right of the main panel, and what looks to be an electrical port on the left. Could it be an optional port for mounting GPS or other hardware? They've also cleaned up the center point for the handle bars. It used to be a large box in the middle, now it's a smoother, smaller rectangle.
To my understanding, Kawasaki kept the standard parallel twin 649cc motor from previous models. They certainly aren't the most quiet motor, but they're popular with riders for their reliability and somewhat ease of maintenance. Hopefully Kawasaki tweaked the design to reduce the noise. The under carriage exhaust and the engine cover plastics have also carried over, albeit they've changed them somewhat. Also, a larger 5.5 gallon tank was added, giving riders that extra distance they want for a good ride.
Couldn't help but notice Kawasaki has continued to keep the excessively gaudy rear turn signal/plate mount. In my opinion, there's no reason for that plastic guard to be so long. Mount the reflector higher if you must. I gave mine a clean cut just behind the plate and I think it looks great.
Overall, I'm incredibly excited to see the new 2015 Kawasaki Versys 650. I think they've done a great job re-imagining the design and bringing together all of the positive aspects of the 2008-2014 models. Dual headlights, adjustable windscreen, cleaner display, smoother lines, a larger fuel tank, and a few updates to the electrics & body. While I don't see myself owning the new model any time soon, I'll certainly be sure to test drive it once my local dealer gets them in stock.
Let me know what you think! What's your opinion on the new Versys? Did Kawasaki knock one out of the park, or did they strike out? If you liked this post be sure to give it a +1 on Google, and press that follow button so you don't miss out on future postings.
Also be sure to check me out on Twitter @FloriderRiderFL! and use the hashtag #TheFloridaRider for Twitter & Instagram!
Thanks!
-James
This news broke yesterday afternoon, so I apologize for the delay. My source for the photos is asphaltandrubber.com, with the article link listed here. They also have information on the new Kawasaki Ninja H2R, BMW R1200R & RS, along with many other models, so be sure to check them out!
That being said, let's get into it.
For those of you who don't know, INTERMOT is the International Motorcycle, Scooter & E-bike Show that takes place in Cologne, Germany every October. Countries from all over the world come to show off their new models of two-wheeled machines. For comparison, it's like the Detroit Auto Show, and the E3 Conference for the video gaming community, if not bigger.
There have been a couple of "leaked" photos of the various 2015 Versys concepts over the past year, with some speculating that Kawasaki is making an 800cc variant, but they've all been identified as fakes. While I can't say with absolute certainty that Kawasaki won't be making an 800cc Versys some time in the future, fans of the model were able to quickly identify this below image as nothing more than an "I wish" design.
The 650cc Versys is incredibly popular around the world, particularly in South East Asia & Western Europe. With such a huge following, it's hard to imagine Kawasaki introducing a model that very few people seem to be screaming for. Between the 650 and 1000cc models, Kawasaki seems to have a strong foothold on the market. Introducing an 800cc could muddy the water.
The 2015 Kawasaki Versys 650 looks to be an incredible machine. The most noticeable difference from previous models is the dual headlight configuration. This certainly increases the aesthetics of the motorcycle, while improving visibility, so that other vehicles have a better chance of seeing the bike on the road.
The second thing we notice from this picture is the addition of an adjustable windscreen. I personally am intrigued by this because by adding that feature, it reduces the riders need to by a custom/aftermarket windscreen to fit their needs. I applaud Kawasaki's desire to make the bike more rider friendly and customizable. Also notice the angular mirrors that have carried over from the 2010 model. It's a great look and I'm glad Kawasaki has continued that on the 2015.
Looking at the controls, not much seems different. Horn, signals, hazards, and high/low beam controls on the left, electric starter and kill switch on the right. The addition of what could be a fog light switch is on the right just below the mirror. The display looks much cleaner than previous models, with the tachometer mounted above the digital spedometer and panel lights. I'm curious to find out more about red circular display on the right of the main panel, and what looks to be an electrical port on the left. Could it be an optional port for mounting GPS or other hardware? They've also cleaned up the center point for the handle bars. It used to be a large box in the middle, now it's a smoother, smaller rectangle.
To my understanding, Kawasaki kept the standard parallel twin 649cc motor from previous models. They certainly aren't the most quiet motor, but they're popular with riders for their reliability and somewhat ease of maintenance. Hopefully Kawasaki tweaked the design to reduce the noise. The under carriage exhaust and the engine cover plastics have also carried over, albeit they've changed them somewhat. Also, a larger 5.5 gallon tank was added, giving riders that extra distance they want for a good ride.
Couldn't help but notice Kawasaki has continued to keep the excessively gaudy rear turn signal/plate mount. In my opinion, there's no reason for that plastic guard to be so long. Mount the reflector higher if you must. I gave mine a clean cut just behind the plate and I think it looks great.
Overall, I'm incredibly excited to see the new 2015 Kawasaki Versys 650. I think they've done a great job re-imagining the design and bringing together all of the positive aspects of the 2008-2014 models. Dual headlights, adjustable windscreen, cleaner display, smoother lines, a larger fuel tank, and a few updates to the electrics & body. While I don't see myself owning the new model any time soon, I'll certainly be sure to test drive it once my local dealer gets them in stock.
Let me know what you think! What's your opinion on the new Versys? Did Kawasaki knock one out of the park, or did they strike out? If you liked this post be sure to give it a +1 on Google, and press that follow button so you don't miss out on future postings.
Also be sure to check me out on Twitter @FloriderRiderFL! and use the hashtag #TheFloridaRider for Twitter & Instagram!
Thanks!
-James
Thursday, September 4, 2014
The Time Has Come --Inspection Time!
16,271. That's the number of miles on my 2008 Kawasaki Versys 650. The time has finally come for the valve clearance inspection. Not only that, I think the bike is due for a good once over. It's safe to assume the previous owner never gave the bike it's first annual inspection. Based on the condition of the front tire (bald), and the dead spark plugs when I purchased the bike, it's safe to say the previous owner didn't know what he was doing. However, since I've owned the bike, it's become quite a wonderful ride. I can't say that I've been looking forward to this occasion, but with the motor starting to tick and it's mileage building up, the bike needs the investment.
Just seems that expenses outweigh income. This is no exception. The tremendous Florida heat has been a mixed blessing. While I can't take the bike out as often as I'd like, it also allowed the bike to stay in the garage, so I wouldn't have to spend the money earlier (which I didn't have). In the next couple of weeks, I'll make sure the bike gets the attention it requires. Hoping the weather begins to cool down soon, so that everything will fall into place, and the bike will be ready to ride as Fall hits the area.
-James
Just seems that expenses outweigh income. This is no exception. The tremendous Florida heat has been a mixed blessing. While I can't take the bike out as often as I'd like, it also allowed the bike to stay in the garage, so I wouldn't have to spend the money earlier (which I didn't have). In the next couple of weeks, I'll make sure the bike gets the attention it requires. Hoping the weather begins to cool down soon, so that everything will fall into place, and the bike will be ready to ride as Fall hits the area.
-James
Monday, August 11, 2014
#BlogLife
This past weekend, I broke 2,000 page views on my blog - you guys are awesome.
I started this blog as a way to share my travel and military experience(s), along with my love of motorcycles. I hoped people would be interested, but didn't think anything would come of it. I took an 8 month break from blogging, and I'm glad I did because it reinvigorated me. I've had more views since I came back than I did before. It's incredible, and I thank you guys so much for your comments, questions, views, and overall interest.
I know many of you have become regulars, and I really appreciate that. Blogs, YouTube, & other aspects of social media are great ways for people to share their experiences with others, and by doing so create connections.
Yesterday, I posted about the 2K views milestone, and mentioned the Google Friend Connect gadget that makes it easier to follow my blog if you subscribe to it. A few of you asked if I could show it, so above is what it looks like. It's located on the right side of the page. If you could give that button a click, I'd truly appreciate it.
Once again I want to thank you all so much for your genuine support and interest. If you haven't already, please click that Subscribe button, and be sure to +1 any posts you like on Google Plus. I try to update a couple of times per week, and if there's anything specific you would like me to discuss, leave a comment below.
Also be sure to check out my YouTube and Instagram page(s)! Use #TheFloridaRider when browsing Instagram, or tag your own photos with that hashtag and I'll see them.
I haven't had a chance to focus on YouTube too much, but I'm planning out a few videos that I'm sure you will enjoy.
I hope you have an awesome day.
-James
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