Motorcycle Tours, Motorcycle Tour

During the years between 1964 and 1966, Harley Davidson really built some great motorcycles that had some really impressive features that consumers have continued to enjoy. The 1964 Harley-Davidson XLCH Sportster motorcycle’s impressive 883-cc V-twin engine out-powered most competitors during that era. The 1965 Harley-Davidson FL Electra-Glide motorcycle was the last Harley fitted with the venerable pan-head engine and the first big Harley with an electric start, which made this combo a highly coveted collectible. For Harley Davidson, 1965 marked the end of an era.

The Electra-Glide, with its electric starter, made its debut, but it would be the last year for the famous pan-head V-twin that was introduced in 1948. That engine had received some modifications over the years, a significant one coming in 1963 with external oil lines that improved lubrication to the cylinder heads. Along with the electric starter came the twelve-volt electrics to replace the previous six-volt system, which in turn brought a bigger battery hidden beneath a large battery case on the right side. That, along with the bold “Electra Glide” script on the front fender, makes it easy to distinguish this model from earlier FLs.

Some Electra-Glides had the standard exhaust system that had both cylinders exhausting to the right into a single muffler. This was optional as a dual-muffler system where the exhaust from the front cylinder exited to the right, while that from the rear cylinder exited to the left, both terminating in their own distinctive “fishtail” muffler. Also optional was the old hand-shift and foot-clutch arrangement that was so popular with police departments. Though a curb weight of more than seven hundred pounds restricted performance somewhat, the Electra-Glide was a popular touring mount in its day, as the electric starter alleviated the problem of having to kick start the big V-twin, which had become no easy task.

The 1966 Harley-Davidson FLH Electra-Glide motorcycle’s smoother-running, more powerful shovel-head engine replaced the pan-head engine, which gave this motorcycle sixty horsepower. In 1965, Harley-Davidson introduced an electric-start version of the big FL series, dubbing it the Electra-Glide, which was still powered by the pan-head engine. This big Harley was now carrying not only the additional weight of the inevitable factory and owner installed accessories, which made it more plentiful by a switch from six-volt electrics to twelve volt, but also the pounds added by the new starting hardware.

Although the pan-head engine had served well during its lengthy tenure, owners were begging for more power. For 1966, Harley released an updated version of the 74-cubic-inch V-twin by mating new aluminum shovel-head cylinder heads to the iron barrels, horsepower increased by five. The smoother, running, more powerful shovel-head engine was a welcome relief. The weight of the FLs had crept up to nearly eight hundred pounds, and the extra power was appreciated by owners. Yet, despite the greater power and escalating heft, FLs were still slowed by drum brakes front and rear; it would not be until 1972 that a front disc would appear.

As middle-class Americans age, many of them want to get a Harley Davidson motorcycle and enjoy the sense of freedom that comes with the air blowing in your face, the rumble below you, and the rush of freedom as you take off across the open highway. In case you haven’t done this yet, I can attest to the fact that long-distance motorcycle riding will give you all those sensations and more.

Not long ago, I met a gal with a high performance road bike, which was a cross between an incredible crotch rocket, and a touring bike. It was a large cc VFR, and probably more power than she needed, but most likely as much as she would ever ask for.

Why would a woman own such an awesome motorcycle? Why wouldn’t everyone? She no longer owns that motorcycle, she has sold it, but I saw a picture and it would make any guy envious.

Indeed, I noted; “Nice motorcycle, and that’s a lot of power for someone your size, so I bet you loved the adrenaline rush? I have sure enjoyed motorcycles as well; mostly race bikes. There is nothing like raw-acceleration, and the sensation of speed and power, all at the wrist, whenever you want to just go.”

This is why people own motorcycles, and if you don’t, or have never felt the freedom of the open road, I’d like to ask you why? Why wouldn’t you enjoy all this great nation has to offer, and soak up a little freedom while smiling your way through the rush of air and the sound of that signifies what this great country stands for? Think on this.

Motorcycle enthusiasts enjoy riding on the open road. However, motorcycle enthusiasts do not have a spacious trunk in which to store their luggage. Therefore, motorcycle enthusiasts must be selective in their choice of luggage.

Soft Luggage

This type carries many advantages for the savvy cyclist. Some luggage is designed for a specific type of motorcycle. Other types are universal. They are designed to fit on any motorcycle. The soft type is constructed of a tough, durable, water-resistant material and is specifically designed for shorter trips. While it is durable, it does not provide sufficient protection for longer trips.

Hard Luggage

Hard luggage is usually designed for a specific type of motorcycle. However, even after-market hard luggage is contoured to fit the bike without detracting from its handling. Additionally, hard luggage is designed to match the colour and material of the motorcycle. While it is more expensive than soft luggage, it does offer several advantages. This type offers greater security as it can be locked as well as offering greater protection from the elements while touring. While soft luggage is water-resistant, it is not waterproof. During an intense bout of rain, water can leak in through the closures and the fabric itself with soft luggage. Many hard luggage systems now offer a quick-release system that enables the cyclist to remove and transport his belongings quickly and easily.

Additional Information

Regardless of the type of luggage chosen, cyclists should take exceptional care with the fitting of their luggage. Luggage that has been improperly attached to the cycle may cause it to shift during travel, affecting handling and possibly damage the motorcycle’s finish. If it is not secured tightly may fall off the cycle at high speeds. Use the luggage in accordance with manufacturer’s specifications. Both soft luggage and hard luggage will change the wear pattern on the motorcycle’s tyres. Overloaded luggage will exacerbate this issue and decrease the safety of motorcycle. Heavy items should be loaded closest to the motorcycle’s centre of gravity to minimize its effect on the way the bike handles. When carrying heavy loads on a motorcycle, it is always advisable to take the bike to a mechanic to ensure that the bike’s suspension is adequate to handle the additional weight. Adding luggage changes the dimensions of a motorcycle. Cyclists should ensure that all safety equipment works properly with the new dimensions. For example, side view mirrors may need to be moved or replaced. Luggage that is stored on the rear of the motorcycle should not block brake lights or turn signals.

Know your mopeds from your nakeds with this guide to the different types of motorbike

If you’re sick of sitting in the car in gridlocked traffic, or fed up with unreliable and expensive public transport, you may be considering two wheels as the way forward. But if you don’t know anything about motorbikes, here’s a quick guide to the basic types available.

The Seven Main Types of Motorbike

1. Sports Bikes

The most popular motorbike class, sports bikes have fast and powerful engines, sharp styling and handling, and aerodynamic fairings. Dominated by Japanese giants Honda, Suzuki, Kawasaki and Yamaha, other makes include Ducati (Italy) and Triumph (good old Blighty).

As sports bikes are built for speed and have blistering acceleration, novice riders should be extremely careful if opting for one of these as your first ride. As you might expect, bike insurance in this class is generally more expensive than in other classes.

The most popular sports bike in the UK is the Honda CBR 600, now in its 22nd year of production.

2. Scooters

The next most popular class is scooters. Once only popular with niche enthusiasts such as Mods with their vintage Italian Vespas and Lambrettas, scooters exploded in popularity in the mid 1990s. Reasons for the boom were increased frustration at urban gridlock, cheap running costs, and the advent of desirable new models from the Japanese firms and Italian maker, Piaggio.

Scooters tend to have smaller, less powerful engines (though bigger engines are becoming more and more popular), and are more affordable than bigger bikes. Also, scooter insurance is often considerably cheaper than sports bike insurance.

3. Mopeds

Mopeds are small-engine bikes (max 50cc) that also use pedal power to drive the chain. Surprisingly, this means they also fall under the category of hybrid vehicles (defined as a vehicle with two modes of power – one conventional and one unconventional). As mopeds have such low power, motorcycle cover can be very cheap.

4. Naked bikes

The term ‘naked’ refers to road bikes without a fairing to obscure the engine and frame, and little or no fairing over the handlebars. However, not all bikes without fairings are naked bikes. Exceptions include custom bikes, off roaders and adventure sport bikes. Naked bikes are often un-faired sports bikes or modern bikes with a retro 70′s styling.

5. Custom/Cruisers

For all you wannabe Easy Riders, cruisers are most easily described by one evocative and legendary brand, Harley Davidson. Typically, cruisers have low seats, long wheel bases, loads of chrome, and most importantly, a laid-back attitude.

Harley’s aren’t the only game in town though, with Japanese bikes able to provide that custom look for a lot less cash (but also less heritage). Other cruiser makers include Italian firm Moto Guzzi and BMW.

Some cruisers, such as the massive Kawasaki VN2000, have larger engines, even, than mid-size cars, and are definitely not recommended for bikers who’ve just removed their stabilisers.

6. Adventure sport

Think of Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman in Long Way Round. Used by bikers who want to ride both on and off road, these endurance machines often have larger luggage compartments and petrol tanks for long distance trekking. A tall profile and upright riding position means good visibility over the car in front and also makes the rider highly visible to other cars. King of this class is the huge BMW RG1200, a veritable Hummer of the motorcycle world.

7. Touring motorcycles

If you’re going to be travelling long distances, these mile munchers could be for you. Built for on-road comfort and continent-cruising ability, many tourers have large windscreens, generous luggage capacity, plush seats, driver/passenger intercom, and heated handlebar grips. Also, some even have reverse gears to help move their massive weight out of tight parking spots (such as the 1500cc and 1800cc Honda Goldwing).

Of course, motorbike classes can be subdivided further (e.g. naked sports, classic bikes, sports touring), but the above should give you a general feel for the types available.

One more thing, whether you’re brand new to two wheels, a born-again biker, or you’ve been riding for years, please travel carefully and always stay safe. Here are some motorcycle safety tips.