Motorcycle Misadventures

Motorcycle Tool Tubes: Buy or DYI

I just became aware of "tool tubes" for motorcycles, (okay, so maybe I'm a little slow, but bear with me here), which are basically PVC pipe or metal tubes with secure lids on them to be attached to the bike somehow, somewhere, in elegant or rough ways depending on your particular needs and personality. Bluepoof (I should have guessed) has a great writeup on making her own 3-inch PVC Tool Tube for the F650GS. Otherwise you can buy a kit online from a place like GT Moto Products who sell them for BMWs or a universal kit for other bikes. I also found a couple on eBay. I think it's a brilliant alternative to tool bags, since I always carry more than will fit under my seat, and yes, it's always possible that a sharp tool will tear the fabric and you'll scatter them all over the road. Always fun for you and the tailgaters...

Moto Guzzi Stelvio vs BMW GS Adventure: Rider Review

René Bertin wrote up his impression of the Moto Guzzi Stelvio vs. the BMW GS Adventure in BARF - Bay Area Riders Forum.

After that review, I'm very much looking forward to trying one out during my trip to Europe and Morocco in May. Yes, I'll report back!

Werkstatt Wins 2008 Best Motorcycle Repair in Bay Area

I just recommended Werkstatt motorcycle shop to someone in a forum who needs a used bike checked out before its first long ride. Navigating to the site I was happy to see that they won Best Motorcycle Repair in the Bay Area. Congratulations, Werkstatt! They specialize in Japanese motorcycles from about 1970 to present, and BMW airheads from 1970 to 1995, (which has covered it for me except for the Enfield). And, they are really good about same day turnaround on most jobs, which is kind of amazing, in my experience. And (yes, another and), they are very conscious about using environmentally friendly chemicals. And (yes, again an and), they are women owned and operated. You can follow owner Jennifer Bromme on her blog, which is always a fun and informative read. She also maintains a very nice travel blog.

Optical Illusions: Motorcycle Awareness Video

Interesting  'Optical Illusions' - TV commercial - informed study on time/distance/perception relating to car drivers perceiving motorcycle riders.

Via @EatSleepRide on twitter.

Prepping for Earth Hour 8:30-9:30pm Tonight

Just lighting candles, prepping for EARTH HOUR 8:30-9:30 PM all over the world. Great to feel part of a positive contribution. How can it become a daily part of life? Go to http://www.worldwildlife.org/for more info ideas. But now, please dim or turn off your lights.

Bed and Breakfast near Moto Guzzi, Italy: dell'Acqua Bianca

When I'm in Italy to visit Moto Guzzi on the banks of Lake Como I stay at this lovely little B&B: Bed and Breakfast dell'Acqua Bianca. It's located at a trailhead into the Alps, so you're quickly in the heart of nature for those morning or evenig walks after exploring the area. Or ride your rented Moto Guzzi (from GuzziRent.it, run by Alis Agostini) down to the lake or anywhere north for an exploration on the Italian, Swiss, and French Alps. (South is Turino and Milano, Genoa, and the rest of Italy.) It's very affordable. Tell Annamaria that Carla sent you!

Community Advice on De-rusting a Brake Disc

I uncovered my bike after the rains to find rust on my rear brake disc - but not on the front - go figure. I wanted to de-rust it a little before I rode it so I asked for advice on twitter/facebook and received answers from simple to complex from a variety of friends. Here's the collective wisdom. Thank you!

Teresa Ann Foxworthy at 10:54pm March 26

i once heard that coca cola dissolved rust nicely...lol...what do i know about brake discs!?!?

Marcello Molteni at 12:59am March 27

Usually it's enough riding the bike and braking.. :-) but I can suggest sand paper and petrol.

Tim Bowman at 7:27am March 27

There is actually a product called a rotor hone. Check out http://www.sjdiscounttools.com/brmrmfh120z25.html

Dean Bartosh at 9:08am March 27

Go to auto parts store. They make a aerosol spray brake cleaner.

Any more advice welcome - please use the comments area of my blog. Thanks again!

Etiquette 101: What the World Thinks About Us

They love our movies. They hate our politicians (well, most of them). But what about our manners? We found out what everyone thinks of our behavior—be it good, bad, or just plain perplexing . . . read Etiquette 101: What the World Thinks About Us  -- especially if you're planning a trip.

There are tips for a lot of different countries and a tipping guide, too. Now roll up on a motorcycle, and see how that complicates things!

Lodging on CA Hwy 395: Redwood Motel in Bridgeport

Just a quick tip: The quirky little Redwood Motel is a great little place to spend the night in the middle of nowhere when you're exploring along Hwy 395 between Reno and Los Angeles. Locally owned by Ed, and the best value in a one-street town with 5 motels. Air, fridge, microwave, clean, and a life-size pinto-pony weathervane.

• 25 miles NORTH of Lee Vining and Tioga Pass/120
• 17 miles SOUTH of Highway 108/ Sonora Pass
• Two hours SOUTH of Reno
• Just Far enough NORTH of L.A.

Combo jacket-tent a great idea for motorcycle camping

Mike Werner posted news of a concept jacket/tent combo on this blog: Ideal Adventure Motorcycling Jacket from Bikes in the Fast Lane. I hope they make this thing a reality too, it's just too good! (Mike, where do you find this stuff?)