Hot Tips
Contents
- Instructions for fitting a motorcycle helmet correctly
- Instructions for fitting gloves correctly
- Preparation for Have-A-Go Track Days
- Tyre Maintanence Tips
- MCR's Top Rides
- Gearing Up for MX
- Gearing Up for Road Riding
- Motorcycling In Winter
- MCR's Biker Flick Picks
- MCR's most memorable motorcycle movie scene picks
- Other movie recommendations
Instructions for fitting a Motorcycle Helmet correctly
The motorcycle helmet is the one piece of motorcycling equipment
that can potentially save your life! Different brands of
helmets or even different models within the same brand will have a
completely different fit and feel as helmets come in a variety of
internal shapes, so choosing a helmet is not as easy as just
picking a size and colour.
Shape is a very important factor when
purchasing a motorcycle helmet as heads come in a variety of shapes
and sizes. What is good on your mate may not necessarily be
right for you. Basically the helmet should fit snugly so that it is
stable when you shake your head . Your skin should move when
you try to move the helmet on your head.
Comfort The material that makes up the helmet
lining is important to consider. It should feel comfortable
against the skin . The internal padding should act as a comfortable
cushion and the liner shape should match your head
shape. The chin strap should be firm but not rub the
neck. The visor should not impair your vision when
opened.
Things to check for
Tip #1 Use the manufacturers guide lines and a
tape measure to get a basic size range.
Tip #2 A full face helmet should grip the
cheeks and jaw slightly as well as the top and sides of your
head.
Tip #3 The eyes should be in the centre of the
face cavity. If the eyes are too high or too low, the size of the
helmet is incorrect and visibility from the helmet could be
affected.
Tip #4 Do the 'roll-off' test. With the
strap securely fastened, grab the back lip of the helmet and try to
roll it forward off your head. If it comes off you need to
try a different size.
Tip #5 Try clenching your teeth. The
helmet should provide enough room for you to keep your mouth closed
without undue discomfort.
Tip #6 Check the helmet for a recommended
safety standards sticker.
Tip #7 It is unwise to purchase a secondhand
helmet. You don't know the true history of the helmet and
whether the integrity of it's safety has been compromised.
Tip #8 You should never purchase a helmet
without trying it on first.
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Care of Your Helmet
Helmets are the most important safety equipment you use on a
motorcycle. Care & maintenance of your helmet is crucial
in maintaining its structural integrity. Many things can affect the
performance of the outer shell and the interior lining. Some of
these tips may seem 'common sense' but you'd be suprised at the
lack of thought people treat their helmet with.
Tip # 1 Don't store your helmet in direct
sunlight or near heat, these will begin to affect the performance
of the outer shell.
Tip # 2 Store your helmet the correct way up
(collar side down). Whenever you place your helmet down, make sure
it also placed in this position.
Tip #3 Do not sit on your helmet or place it
under pressure. If your helmet is ever involved in any impact THEN
REPLACE IT.
Tip #4 Don't leave your gloves inside your
helmet, the sweat & dirt etc can affect the interior lining and
inner shell.
Tip #5 Never paint your helmet. It is quite a
common place for people to spray paint their helmet a matt black
etc. DO NOT do this! the integrity of the polycarbonate shell can
be greatly affected. If you want to change to appearance of your
helmet get a professional to paint it.
Tip #6 When cleaning your visor it is best to
remove it first so that residule product does not affect other
parts of your helmet. Specific helmet & visor cleaning products
are recommended for the best care of your helmet. These
product lines often have water repellents and anti-fog sprays that
aide your vision in certain conditions.
Tip # 7 Check other safety components of your
helmet such as D-rings, 'seat-belt' clasps for any
deterioration.
Instructions for fitting motorcycle gloves correctly
People often feel gloves are not a necessary item of motorcycle
safety. To these people I often say…"stand there and
drag your hand across that concrete ground, whether you are going
50 or 100kph it is going to hurt" Gloves are your best
protection against road rash so make it a priority on your
safety list.
There are many differences in gloves from purpose, materials and
weights. You must consider the conditions in which you will
be using your gloves. Think about what season they will be
used. Are they for road riding, off-road riding, touring or
racing. Find a glove that best suits your needs.
Summer Gloves Summer gloves should be snug but
not restrictive. Make sure they are fully usable and don't
restrict your movements in controlling your motorcycle.
Winter Gloves Winter gloves should not be as
snug as summer gloves (but not too loose). Winter gloves work
by trapping a layer of air which your hand warms up.
Features Other features to consider when
choosing your gloves:
Check for extensions-do you want a cuff that goes over the
sleeve of your motorcycle jacket or do you want it to tuck inside?
Does the glove have wrist straps?, Is there padding-what kind and
where? How are they stitched together? What sort of lining is in
them? Are they waterproof?
Tip#1 When sizing your gloves at MCR we always
leave 3 to 5mm of space between the tip of your finger and the
glove. When the gloves are new and you are holding on to the
handle bars the palm of the glove will be pushed back and in turn
shortens the fingers.

Tip #2 Think about whether you like to 'feel'
more or less in your gloves. Often the thicker the glove the
less 'feel' you have.
At MCR we have a large range of gloves. Come in and see us and
get the glove that best suits you.
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Preparation Guide for 'Have A Go' Track
Days
Motorcycle track days have become wildly popular events,
allowing motorcyclists to ride their motorcycles to the limits in a
controlled environment.
This is much safer than carving up the local public roads, but
it takes a lot by all those involved to insure that each track day
is as safe as possible.
"Have A Go' Days are about fun, enjoyment and
participation. Having the correct gear and preparation can
make a big difference in the enjoyment factor so we have put
together a few basic tips to get you started.
Basic Rider Preparation
Most track day organizers will examine each participant's gear
and helmet when they check in. Proper rider safety, however, is
ultimately the responsibility of each rider.
- You must have a suitable safety riding jacket and pants.
- You must have a well fitted helmet, in good condition, which
meets safety standards.
- You must have a back protector
- Have strong boots that cover the ankles and well fitted
gloves.
- The morning rider briefing should make mention of rider
fitness, but it's up to everyone to monitor their own condition at
all times throughout the day.
- Get plenty of sleep the night before and eat a good breakfast
in the morning.
- Riding a motorcycle on the track is physically demanding.
- Riding a motorcycle on the track is mentally demanding as well.
Focus on the task at hand.
- Fatigue and dehydration are leading causes of track day
accidents. Stay alert and aware of your condition at all times.
Don't ride beyond your abilities and pull in early if you feel
tired or begin making mistake.
Rider preparation is key to a safe and enjoyable track day.
Track day motorcycle preparation is just as important.
Basic Bike Preparation
- Check your tyres are in good order - they need plenty of tread
and check you have the correct tyre pressure for the make and model
of your bike.
- Check your chains and sprockets - adjust the tension correctly
and make sure you lube the chain well. This will help the
bike to feel nicer when riding.
- Check your brake pads - they need to have a thickness of 2mm or
more.
- Check your oil levels.
- Check all of your controls, meaning clutch cable, throttle
cable, brake lever, clutch lever, rear brake lever, and kill switch
for proper operation
- Make sure all your bodywork is properly supported and
fastened.
- Remove mirrors and tape up lights and indicators
- Tape over wheel weights to ensure they are secure at high
speeds
- Check with organizers for local requirements
Note; a day at the track can be the equivalent of up 1500k's of
wear and tear on your bike. If you need further help with
bike preparation come and see they guys at MCR.
Spares Kit
- Have a set of basic tools for making minor adjustments on the
day.
- Have chain lube in your kit.
- Have a can of gas for refilling throughout the day.
Tips
- It's better to trailer your bike if possible rather than riding
it to the track (especially if travelling some distance)
- It can be a good idea to check your medical insurance. Are you
still covered if you are injured during a track day?
- Bring things that will make your day more comfortable (for
example, chairs, shade tent etc) you will have down time between
races.
- Don't be afraid to ask for help and ask questions.
Tyre Maintanence Tips
Tyres on motorcycles, like any vehicle, play a vital role in the
performance, handling and safety of the bike. Many times we tend to
ignore the necessary maintenance needed to keep the tyres safe.
With motorcycles, there are only two small contact patches for the
rider to rely on, so it is extremely important to keep the tyres in
top condition.
A well maintained, regularly serviced bike is simply nicer to
ride. Everything works as it should, every control feels right.
Any tyre, no matter how well constructed, may fail in use as a
result of punctures, impact damage, improper inflation,
overloading, or other conditions resulting from use or misuse. Tyre
failure may create a risk of property damage, serious personal
injury or death. Many tyre failures are preceded by
vibration, bumps, bulges or irregular wear. If a vibration occurs
while riding your motorcycle, or you notice a bump, bulge or
irregular wear, have your tyres and motorcycle evaluated by a
qualified service person. It is recommended that riders do a
periodic inspection of their tyres and have any imbedded objects
removed by a qualified service person.
Inspecting Your Tyres
Being able to identify worn treads or
wearing patterns in them is a prerequisite to your safety and
control. Under well-lit conditions, look for any signs of
punctures (such as nails or shards of glass) which might
potentially lead to a loss of pressure or a blowout. Bulging or
cracking might also occur on old tyres. Regularly rolling the
tyres and inspecting them may be the single most important check
you do.
Spotting Damaged Tyres
After striking anything unusual in the roadway, ask our friendly
staff at MCR to demount the tyre and inspect it for damage. A tyre
may not have visible signs of damage on the tyre surface. Yet, the
tyre may suddenly fail without warning, a day, a week, or even
months later.
Inspect your tyres for cuts, cracks, splits or bruises in the
tread and sidewall areas. Bumps or bulges may indicate a separation
within the tyre body. Have your tyre inspected by a qualified tyre
service person. It may be necessary to have it removed from the
wheel for a complete inspection. Inspect your tyres for
adequate tread depth. When the tyre is worn to the built-in
indicators at 1/32nd inch (0.8 millimetres) or less tread groove
depth, or the tyre cord or fabric is exposed, the tyre is
dangerously worn and must be replaced immediately. Inspect
your tyres for uneven wear. Wear on one side of the tread or flat
spots in the tread may indicate a problem with the tyre or
motorcycle. Consult MCR. Inspect your rims also. If you
have a bent or cracked rim, it must be replaced.
Checking Tyre Pressure

Tyre pressure is especially crucial on motorcycles, and handling
and ride quality can change dramatically with small adjustments.
Tyres also wear more quickly when they're not properly inflated,
adding yet another reason to check tire pressure regularly.
The best time to check tyre pressure is before you start riding
while the tyres are cool; once the bike is in motion, tyre
temperatures warm up, which changes the density and pressure of the
air inside. The tyres are "cold" when your motorcycle has
been ridden less than a kilometre at moderate speed or after being
stopped for three or more hours. If you must add air when
your tyres are hot, add four pounds per square inch (4 psi) (28
kPa) above the recommended cold inflation pressure. Recheck the
inflation pressure when the tyre is cold. Never release air
from a hot tyre in order to reach the recommended cold tyre
pressure. Normal riding causes tyres to run hotter and inflation
pressure to increase. If you release air when your tyres are hot,
you may dangerously under inflate your tyres. If your tyres
lose more than two pounds per square inch (2 psi) (14 kPa) per
month, the tyre, the valve, or wheel may be damaged. Consult MCR
for an inspection.
Check your tyre air pressure at least once a week and before
long trips. Be sure to use an accurate pressure gauge. Always
keep the tyre manufacturer's recommended air pressure in both
tyres. This is an important requirement for tyre safety and
mileage. Also consult your motorcycle owner's manual, it will tell
you the recommended cold inflation pressure.
Adding Air Pressure to Tyres

Always use your tyre manufacturer recommended PSI levels. If
you're using non-standard tyre sizes on your bike, go by the
pressure figures printed on the sidewall.
After checking tyre pressure, inflate them using compressed air
until they reach the recommended pressure. If they're
over-inflated, simply bleed them by depressing the centre of the
Schrader valve until they are properly inflated.
Under inflation may damage the tyre leading to tyre failure,
affect vehicle cornering, reduce tyre life, increase fuel
consumption and produce fatigue cracking.
Riding on tyres with too much air can be dangerous. The tyres
are more likely to be cut, punctured, or broken by sudden
impact.
Valves, Stems, Cores & Caps
Use valve caps to keep valve cores clean, clear of debris and to
help guard against air leakage.
Old or damaged valve stems and cores may cause air loss. Replace
them when mounting new tyres. Use caps (finger tight) on the valve
stems to keep dust, dirt and
moisture away from the valve.
How to Check Tread Levels
Adequate tyre tread not only ensures tyre integrity, it allows
water to be channelled away from the contact patch, which helps
maintain grip under wet conditions. Minimum tyre depth may
vary country to country but in NZ the minimum legal tread depth is
1.5mm.
Removing and Replacing Tyres on Rims (Tyre
Mounting)
Removing and replacing tyres on rims can be dangerous.
Attempting to mount tyres with improper tools or procedures may
result in a tyre explosion causing serious personal injury.
This is a job for the experts at MCR.
It is extremely important that the proper size of rim is used
for your tyres. Be sure to match your tyre size to the size allowed
on the rim. Improper rim width may affect handling and stability.
Consult the sizing information of the tyres you want to install for
rim width allowances. Be sure that there is proper clearance
between the tyre and swing arm and any fender areas.
Tyre Size Selection
All motorcycles should be equipped with the tyre size specified
by the motorcycle manufacturer as found in the owner's manual or
manufacturer's website. Be sure to equip the bike with radial tyres
only when they are required by the bike manufacturer. Our
experienced staff at MCR is on hand to give advice for correct tyre
fit
and purpose.
Front & Rear Tyre Matching
For optimum performance, it is very important to correctly match
your front and rear tyres. Riding your motorcycle with an improper
mix of radial construction tyres with bias or bias-belted
construction tyres is dangerous. Your motorcycle's handling
characteristics can be seriously affected.
Tyre and Wheel Balance

Wheel balancing provides a smoother ride by minimizing
tyre vibration and bounce. This helps improve traction, steering
control and extends the life of your tyres. A properly
balanced wheel makes the small shakes go away and the rider will
feel more secure at speed. To avoid vibration and accelerated
tyre wear, it is essential to balance the tyre & wheel assembly
before use and each time the tyre is removed or replaced on the
rim. Also, check the rim for any imperfections as they could affect
the overall balance. No matter how carefully wheels and tyres
are balanced, they will eventually lose their balance. As the tread
wears, the distribution of weight around the circumference of a
tyre changes altering the balance of the tyre and wheel assembly.
Eventually the tyre may have to be rebalanced. If you
have a vibration problem bring your bike into MCR's workshop so we
can check the balance of your tyres.
Break In Period
In order for your new tyre(s) to provide optimum performance,
tyres should be ridden very cautiously for the first 100 kilometres
in order for the tread surface to be "Scuffed-In" and work
properly. Directly after new tyres are mounted, sudden
acceleration, maximum braking and hard cornering must be avoided.
This will allow the rider to adjust to the "feel" and handling
characteristics of the new tyre and for the new tyre to be
"scuffed-in" correctly in order to achieve optimum grip level.
Tyre Loading
Riding your motorcycle in an overloaded condition is dangerous.
Overloading causes excessive heat to build up in your tyres. This
can lead to sudden tyre failure and serious personal injury or
death while the tyre is overloaded or at some later date.
If You Experience a Blow out or Tyre
Failure
If you do experience a blow out or
sudden tyre failure, the following information should be helpful:
When the failure occurs, slowly decrease the amount of throttle,
hold the handlebars firmly, and steer to maintain your lane
position. Once the motorcycle has slowed and is fully under
control, apply the brakes gently. Gradually pull over to the
shoulder and come to a stop.
References:motorcycles.about.com,
totalmotorcycle.com
MCR's Top Rides
The South Island's stunning scenery and superb
roads are perfect for motorcycling. Having some of the most
diverse scenery in the world with mountains, lakes, rain forest,
glaciers, coastal areas, farmland, fiords and many attractions and
activities to enjoy en route, Motorcyclists in the South have it
all at their own back door.
These handpicked routes showcase the first in a series we will be
listing. We will start with the best of what the Otago region
has to offer. A ribbon of tarmac lying across the jumbled
topography and rolling pastures, rugged coastline, tussock covered
hills and amazing rocky terrain makes Otago a two-wheeled
playground!
MIDDLEMARCH GP
Dunedin-Palmerston-Kyeburn-Middlemarch-Mosgiel/Dunedin
with a detour option through Macraes to Middlemarch.
This route will take you through some of NZ's best
scenery. Lush green farmland and tussock covered hills to the
most spectacular rocky terrain, the view is almost as good as the
ride.
Providing nice twisty roads with sweeping corners and tighter
turns this is a popular ride for local motorcyclists. The
road surface is really good but in the midst of summer riders need
to be aware of melting patches on the road. At times this
route can also be windy but overall it's lightly populated road
making it our top pick for a good scratch.
View Larger Map
COASTAL CATLINS RIDE
Balclutha - Owaka - Invercargill (Coastal Catlins
ride)
This coastal route takes you through the scenic
Catlins area of South Otago. This varied road provides lots
of great cornering with a good road surface. There are some
mossy patches on the road but genereally these are not
slippery. This is a reasonably unpopulated road but as it is
a tourist, coastal route, so be aware of campervans and tourists
using the road. With lots to see and do along the way, this
route is great for a touring ride.
View
Larger Map in a larger map
THE RIVER RUN
Balclutha - Clydevale
-Beaumont
A fun ride along the river. Reasonably open windy
road. Fairly good road surface. Lovely
scenery. This is a farming area so be aware of roaming stock
and effluent patches on the road.
View
New Zealand Map in a larger map
MANUKA GORGE GRIND
Milton to
Lawerance
Starting with a huge long straight and moving into a good mix of
sweeping and tight corners the Manuka Gorge is great choice for a
shorter ride. The quaint destination of Lawerance offers a
variety of cafe options. At times this can be a heavily populated
route so be aware of buses and other traffic.
View
New Zealand Map in a larger map
THE WHITESTONE DETOUR
Maheno - Five Forks - Kurow
This technical route provides plenty of skinny road and tight
corners. It takes you through the ancient limestone
formations at Elephant Rocks in North Otago whcih was the set for
the scene for Aslan's Camp in the Chronicles of Narnia movie.
Almost a forgotten part of the country, after one ride through
it, this will become a favourite route. It is a farming area
so be aware of lifestock and effluent on the roads.
View
New Zealand Map in a larger map
Gearing Up for MX
Equipping yourself with all the motocross gear you need to go
racing can be expensive, so we've created a list of gear (in order
of importance) to help get you started and help you decide what you
should spend your money on first.
Helmet
This one is a' no-brainer', your helmet is the most
important piece of riding gear you must have. In
buying a helmet you need to make sure it suits the purpose.
Be sure the helmet you're using for Motocross is an actual
"Motocross" helmet and meets recommended safety standards.
You also want one that's lightweight and built with good
ventilation. Never purchase a second hand helmet.
Regardless of how tidy it looks, you don't know the true history of
the helmet and injury to your head is not worth the risk. It
is recommended to try on the helmet before you buy it...a helmet is
only effective if it fits correctly. Correct sizing is very
important. The helmet should fit snug so it's not shifting
around but it should not be so snug that it's giving you a
headache.
Goggles
Next you will need a good pair of
goggles. These provide protection to your eyes but a good
pair of goggles also ensures you can see clearly. 'Tear offs'
are also available. These are thin film sheets that go on
your goggles. As they get dirty, simply tear off a sheet to
reveal the next clean one. Be aware some events are no longer
allowing tear-offs due to environmental effects. The popular
alternative are 'roll-offs'. These are attached to the
goggles and work in the same way as tear-offs but are not removed
altogether, they are simply wound on to produce clear sheets.
There are heaps of options on the market to choose from including
colour ranges so you will easily find a pair that suits your style
and purpose.
Boots
Boots are probably one thing you spend the most money on but
they are important. There is a huge range of brands,
styles and prices on the market so, it pays to do a little
research and find what best suits your needs, style and budget.
Gloves
Things to look for in a pair of gloves are, firstly, a good fit.
Put them on and make your hand the shape that they would be if you
were holding onto your handlebars, make sure they feel comfortable
in that position. Be aware of any seams on the inside of the glove
that may rub on your fingers, particularly in between your
fingers.
Look to make sure they don't bunch up in your palm with your hand
curled also. When wearing gloves don't have the wristband too
tight, you want them done up to keep mud and dirt out but not too
tight that they restrict the flow of blood into your hands. Beware
the dreaded arm pump!
Knee Braces
ACL injuries are one of the most common injuries with motocross
riders. Motocross riders should consider knee braces as a
great way to lesson injuries or, better yet, prevent them
altogether. Knee braces range from basic padded
plastic shells all the way up to custom fitted, kevlar composite
knee braces. The cheaper knee guards really only offer impact
protection but the more expensive guards should offer some
protection against your knee being turned and twisted in ways it
shouldn't.
Elbow Guard
Anyone riding motocross can expect some loss of skin at some
time, but you can help protect the areas that are most
vulnerable. There are a range of elbow guards on the market
to meet your budget. Elbow guards should be designed to provide
full elbow
protection while providing
a comfortable fit. Incorporating foam padding with nylon
guards or inserts for impact protection. There are some
points to note when choosing guards. Note how they are
fitted. Some guards have Velcro fastenings these are
perfectly fine but be aware if they are fastened too tightly it can
cause restrictions and make arm pump worse. Some guards come
with a lycra sleeve which has less restriction but can tend to
stretch a bit with age and slip down the arm.
For a fuller protection choose guards that extend down the wrist
for forearm protection and some brands also have a special lining
that removes moisture to keep you cool and dry.
Body Armour
Body armour offers protection from falls as well as protection
from roost and rocks thrown up by the bikes in front of you.
Some body armour suits incorporate a
kidney belt, chest protector and shoulder pads.
These types of armour are usually worn under your jersey and are
made from padded material.
Chest protectors are designed to be worn over your jersey and
consist of an injection moulded durable polycarbonate chassis and
shoulders. They include a back protection system, and upper arm
guards. Typical models include integrated venting, and quick lock
buckle closure systems to keep you cool and to make it easy to take
on and off. For maximum protection during fast riding or racing, a
plastic chest protector is usually the best choice.
Kidney Belt (flight belt)
A kidney belt isn't a must have in terms of protective gear but
they can save your back and kidneys from a lot of the impact and
jarring that you receive when riding.
Jersey &
Pants
These are probably one of the least important items on your
motocross gear list as far as functionality and protection goes but
they're definitely the 'LOOK GOOD' bits. What you choose will
depend purely on your style and budget.
Riding jerseys should offer comfort but also think about whether
the fabric allows it to dry quickly, can keep you cool and offers
some resistance to tearing and the odd 'off' you may have.
Pants should also offer some resistance to tearing and the odd
'off' you may have and need to be comfortable to wear in a riding
position. Some pants offer added protection (often Kevlar
inserts) around the inside knee area to minimise rubbing.
References: cyaprotectivegear.com;
motocross-racing-tips.com
Gearing Up for Road Riding
Wearing the right gear is just as important as servicing your
motorcycle and knowing how to ride it.
To protect yourself from injury and stay comfortable, invest in
good quality clothing. This should include:
- helmet
- visors or goggles
- a jacket
- trousers
- gloves
- boots
- visibility aids
It is a good idea to get clothing with armour at points which
are most vulnerable in a crash like:
- shoulders
- elbows
- back
- knees
- ankles
HELMET
The motorcycle helmet is
the one piece of motorcycling equipment that can potentially save
your life! Helmets are designed to protect the head and neck
(at a minimum) against impact, crushing and friction damage
(rubbing over another surface). While helmet construction, style
and type vary they all share this same purpose. Different
brands of helmets or even different models within the same brand
will have a completely different fit and feel as helmets come in a
variety of internal shapes, so choosing a helmet is not as easy as
just picking a size and colour. It's a legal
requirement to wear a helmet whenever you ride your motorcycle.
Even in a minor accident, your head is extremely vulnerable.
This is not the time to bargain shop, never buy a secondhand
helmet you don't know the true history and integrety of the
helmet.
Shape is a very important factor when
purchasing a motorcycle helmet as heads come in a variety of shapes
and sizes. What is good on your mate may not necessarily be
right for you. Basically the helmet should fit snugly so that it is
stable when you shake your head . Your skin should move when
you try to move the helmet on your head.
Comfort The material that makes up the helmet
lining is important to consider. It should feel comfortable
against the skin . The internal padding should act as a comfortable
cushion and the liner shape should match your head
shape. The chin strap should be firm but not rub the
neck. The visor should not impair your vision when
opened.
A full-face helmet gives the most protection since
it covers all of the head and face but there are a variety of
options on the market including open-face and flip-up
helmets. It is important to care for your helmet. It
should not be placed 'upside down' on a surface or dropped.
If you do drop your helmet onto a hard surface, or it receives a
heavy blow, it is probably time to buy a new one. A motorcycle
helmet is designed to absorb the impact of a blow, and a helmet
should only do that once. If in doubt, get a new one.
Check our 'How to fit a motorcycle helmet' guide for more
tips
Visor
A windshield on a motorcycle is not eye protection. Proper
eye protection means an approved shield on your helmet, a pair of
goggles, or shatterproof glasses. Settling for less just isn't
worth the risk. Make sure your eye protection is clean and
unscratched. If you use a tinted lens or shield for riding in the
bright sunlight, take a clear one along as well, in case you are
riding after dark.
GLOVES
Gloves
People often feel gloves are not a necessary item
of motorcycle safety. To these people I often say…"stand
there and drag your hand across that concrete ground, whether
you are going 50 or 100kph it's going to hurt" Gloves are
your best protection against road rash so make it a priority on
your safety list. What's the first thing you do when you go
down? Put your hands out to save yourself. Always wear proper
motorcycle gloves with armour protection, even on a hot day. Riding
gloves are also extremely important pieces of your safety
equipment. There are dozens of features in motorcycle gloves
and they all contribute to comfort; wrist straps, washable liners,
insulation for cooler temperatures and water resistance are just a
few. There are many differences in gloves from
purpose, materials and weights. You must consider the
conditions in which you will be using your gloves. Think
about what season they will be used. Are they for road riding,
off-road riding, touring or racing. Find a glove that best
suits your needs.
What to look for:
- Gloves that were designed to meet or exceed what you are going
to be using them for.
- Good stitching, especially in areas that will absorb any
impact
- In the case of leather, thickness.
- Armor/Padding in areas that will absorb any impact, especially
the palm area.
- Fit. Make sure you can use all your fingers without binding,
and you can use the handlebar controls effectively.
- Warmth/Cooling. If you are going to ride in very hot or cold
weather, pay attention to the gloves ability to provide that for
you.
- Waterproofing. Wet gloves are not only cold they can
restrict movement.
Whether you are just riding around town, touring or
pushing it to the limits on the race track you can find the right
glove to suit the style and protection level you need for what you
are doing.
BOOTS
Feet and leg injuries are some of the most common in riding
accidents. Proper motorcycle boots with built in armour
provide the best protection. There is a huge range of brands,
styles and prices in the market, so it pays to do a
little research and find what best suits your needs, style and
budget.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR:
Ankle support and above the ankle coverage by
leather or other good protective material.
- Grip: Oil and/or Gas resistant sole for durability and better
traction
- Comfortable to walk in for long distances
- Armor or other foot protection and consider
waterproofing
- Toe of the boot fits in between foot peg and shifter
comfortably
- Fastening details, zippers or Velcro are better options than
laces.
JACKET
The jacket provides the rider with protection from the weather,
flying road debris and road contact in a fall. Today, jackets are
made from leather or synthetic materials and usually have padding
on the elbow, spine and shoulders. This padding will help to
protect the rider from impact by providing cushion for the areas
that are most likely to be points of impact in a crash. Both
leather and Textile are designed to address these issues using
thick, high-grade leather, armor pieces (hard and soft), double
stitch sewing, Kevlar, rivets and foam in the joints. Regardless of
your choice of leather or synthetic options, it is imperative that
the jacket fit snugly to prevent it from moving out of position,
twisting or riding up during a crash. All other features, such as
waterproofing, ventilation and pockets should be second to proper
fit. However, once you determine the correct fit you should feel
free to explore the wide range of features now available in
jackets. Visit us at MCR to find something that will suit your
style and budget.
WHAT DO LOOK FOR:
A good fit in very important with room
to have a sweater underneath for cold days.
- If the jacket has armor make sure it is over what it should be
protecting. Check the shoulders and elbows especially.
- Construction: Look at the seams and stitching, see if it
looks strong where impact points are, take the time to notice
smaller details like pockets, zippers vents, wind protection
- Reflective/White strips. They will reflect headlights at night
making your otherwise dark jacket noticeable. To be seen is
important, and doubly so at night or in weather when visibility is
poor.
- Thickness of the Leather. Good leather should be at least 1mm
thick and ideally thicker. The thicker the leather generally means
more protection for you all over.
- Vents. If you ride in hot weather, you will appreciate that
your jacket is equipped to let the wind pass though it and cool you
down.
- Colour. As mentioned, look for bright colours over darker ones.
This helps ensure your visibility to other road users.
Note: Next to head injuries, spinal damage is the most
serious threat. An approved back protector, in or under your jacket
or leathers, is a must.
PANTS
Riding pants, like the motorcycle
jacket offer the rider protection from the weather, debris kicked
up from the road and the road itself. These pants come with built
in padding in the knees, hips and seat, options for additional
padding, ventilation, stretch panels and higher waistlines and/or
zippering and attachment options to the jacket for maximum coverage
of the body. The pants are offered in both leather and synthetic
options and complete the look and the full protection that proper
riding equipment has to offer.
HIGH VISIBILITY GEAR
Many road accidents involving motorcyclists occur because
another road user didn't see them. Using some form of visibility
aid will help others to see you. Remember you need to be visible
from the side as well as the front and back.
You can buy special vests which are
designed to make it easier for others to see you. Wearing
fluorescent orange or yellow clothing in daylight will improve your
chances of being seen.
For night time, you can buy clothing that reflects
light or put reflective strips on your helmet and the backs of your
boots. Every little bit helps.
Reflective Strips. Cheap, commonly
available and bright, put reflective strips on your jacket,
pants helmet and the backs of your boots. Every little bit
helps.
HEARING
PROTECTION
Long-term exposure to engine and wind noise can
cause permanent hearing damage, even if you wear a full-face
helmet. Whether you choose disposable foam plugs or reusable
custom-molded devices, proper protection reduces noise, while
allowing you to hear important sounds like car horns.
References: rideforever.co.nz; msf-usa.org;
directgov
GEARING UP WITH MCR
Regardless of the style, material or features that you decide
upon for your motorcycle gear, spending the time to research your
equipment and investing the money in your personal safety will both
contribute to an optimal riding experience that lasts for years to
come.
Getting yourself completely kitted out for riding can be a
gradual process, not everyone has the cash to get it all at once
but there are certain bits that are more important than
others. If you need help getting started, come in and see the
team at MCR, we will find the right product to meet your needs and
fit your budget.
Motorcycling In Winter
Be prepared for riding all year round.
Many motorcyclists enjoy riding their bikes all year round, even
when it's cold enough to freeze the balls off a brass monkey.
However, riding in winter brings a new array of hazards. Here
are a few tips to consider before you go throwing your leg over on
your next winter ride.
Prepare your bike
This should be a routine habit before any ride, but winter
conditions can increase the wearing of parts on a motorcycle.
Check your bike for any mechanical problems. The battery,
motorcycle fluids such as oil, chain tension and very importantly
tyres should all be checked. As your tyres are the only thing
gripping you to the road, make sure they are safe to use (check
tread and tyre pressure). On your ride it is important to let
your tyres warm up. Rubber gets harder as it gets cold. As this
happens, tyres will provide less traction than they can in warmer
temperatures. Friction with the ground will cause the rubber to
warm as you ride so until the tyres warm up, it's a good idea to
limit high-traction situations as much as possible.
To make your bike a more comfortable ride during winter periods,
consider installing a windshield or another type of wind deflector
that will divert wind around the hands and legs. Heated hand
grips or heated seats also add to the comfort level on those cold
winter rides.
Prepare yourself
Riding a motorcycle in cold weather comes down to one simple
thing: insulation. Insulating your body comes down to
layering and wind proofing. Layers are
critical for riding a motorcycle in the cold
weather of winter. How many layers you wear is really down to
personal preference. They need to be effective in keeping you
warm and protected without restricting your mobility. Modern
textiles are generally lighter, quite breathable and more moisture
resistant. Your bottom layer should be something snug such as
thermal wear.
Thermerino range: keeps you insulated with the
outstanding properties of Merino 100% wool which creates a warm
layer of air between your body and the fabric.
The biggest issue that you will have when riding a motorcycle in
the winter is keeping the wind out. Wind, specifically wind chill,
is your worst enemy on a motorcycle in cold weather.
Protective clothing specifically designed to minimise exposure to
wind can be a very good investment.
The insulating layer of warm air that sits between
riders' skin and their outer layer can be blown away easily. In
colder conditions this can be as severe as leading to the onset of
hypothermia.
Oxford chillout range: The abundant use of
Chilltex™, an extraordinary waterproof, windproof and breathable
material used in all of the
ChillOut range, prevents this by keeping cold air
away from riders' bodies, allowing the insulating warm air to
stay.
Pants: In addition to wearing thermals or
chillouts, motorcycle pants that are windproof are essential.
A good pair of well insulated motorcycle riding pants will keep
your legs warm during your ride while also providing you with
abrasion resistance and armoured impact protection. Having
pants that zip to your jacket also creates a seal ensuring no wind
gets in between the layers.
Boots: There is a huge range of boots available on the
market. Consider the fit as a boot that is too tight can
affect circulation and make your feet colder. Find something
that is comfortable, waterproof and windproof.
Gloves: Finding the right pair of gloves can be a
bit of trial and error. The basics tips are: wear
gloves that come up over the wrists, ideally with adjustable straps
to ensure a snug fit. Make sure the gloves fit correctly in
the fingers as this can affect your circulation and make your
fingers colder (not to mention make it harder to use the motorcycle
controls. Look for gloves with the appropriate insulation for
the conditions you intend to ride in.
Neck warmers: One area that quickly gets cold
especially on a cold and windy day is your neck area. Wind
will make your neck cold and can move down the collar
of your jacket cooling your body core. A
neck warmer can ensure this part of your body stays warm and acts
as a seal between your helmet and jacket.
Heated vests: keeping your body's core warm is
important. There are heated vests on the market which can be
worn under your jacket to keep you warm and toasty.
Whatever you choose to wear ensure you're not exposing any
skin. During winter riding, the wind chill can lead to frost
bite and hypothermia.
Riding Hazards
Road Surface: It is important to respect the riding
conditions of winter. Road surfaces are affected by
conditions such as dew, rain, snow, ice and black ice. Areas
such as bridges and tree-lined roads are susceptible to lower
temperatures so ride accordingly.
Wet Roads: Increase the breaking distance between you
and other vehicles to account for wet and greasy road
conditions.
By increasing your distance you will get minimal
spray of other vehicles and will be able to judge and anticipate
other road users driving much easier. The first few rains in
winter will often wash up oil that has built up on the roads during
the summer. This can make roads slippery and will affect your tyre
grip. Take your turns cautiously, give yourself more time to come
to a stop and accelerate slowly. Also keep in mind that a
puddle can actually be a pot hole that is filled with water.
Painted stripes (centre lines, arrows) get slippery when wet and
are often coated with fuel and dirt, ride with caution over these
areas.
Other Road Users: It's worth remembering that
poor conditions affect everyone else around you too. Other drivers
may have their vision impaired with misty windows. Be on the
lookout for pedestrians who are not aware of their surroundings
because they are anxious to get out of the cold and wet weather,
they often have their heads down and may walk out in front of you
without looking properly.
Vision: Bad weather such as fog or even low winter sun
can restrict your view. (and/or the view of other road users) Be
aware of the hazards; ride to suit the road conditions and make
yourself visible to others. Also using anti misting sprays
for mirrors and visors to help prevent fogging and keep your vision
clear.
Check the forecast: Always check the forecast
before heading out on a winter ride. It is important to be
aware of the wind chill factor. Riding in the cold is
heightened on a motorcycle due to this factor. Below is a
wind speed and wind chill chart that may be a helpful. This
is a guide only.

reference:
www.alivetoride.com
Take frequent breaks: If you are taking longer trips
make sure you take frequent breaks to help get your body
temperature back to a normal state (more than you normally would).
Stop for coffee, this will enable you to stretch your legs, getting
circulation flowing and a hot beverage will warm you from the
inside out.
Check your insurance cover. Ensure your insurance
policy up to date and you are fully covered.
In short:
- Make a judgment call on whether the conditions are suitable for
riding or not (taking road conditions, weather forecast and the
wind chill factor into account)
- Be prepared - your bike and yourself. Check your bikes
safety and dress appropriately with sufficient insulation and
protection.
- Be aware of winter hazards such as road conditions, other road
users (including pedestrians) and visibility.
- On longer journeys, take regular breaks
- Check your insurance cover
- Ride safely
MCR's Biker Flick Picks
Biker movies have been around since the 1950's. We've
compiled a list of motorcycle movies. In terms of genre, we have
chosen motorcycle movies which feature some sort of motorcycling
being the main plot. How many of our Top 10 have you seen?

Choppertown: the Sinners (2005)
Custom chopper builder and punk rocker Kutty Noteboom builds his
working man's chopper from the ground up with the help of good
friend Rico and the rest of his biker brothers in this intimate
award-winning documentary about renowned hot rod and motorcycle
club the Sinners.
Starring: Kutty Noteboom, Rico Fodney, Rob Fortier, cole
Fisher
Genre: documentary/action/adventure
Dust To Glory (2005)
A documentary on the Baja 1000, an annual off-road race held in
Baja, Mexico that attracts hundreds of racers, 
their souped up machines and thousands of fans.
Starring: Chad McQueen, Mario Andretti, Sal FishGenre:
documentary/action/adventure
The Motorcycle Diaries
(2004)
The dramatisation of a motorcycle road trip Che Guevara went on
in his youth that showed him his lifes calling.
Starring: Gael Garcia Bernal, Rodrigo De la Serna,
Mercedes Morán
Genre: Adventure/biography/drama
Harley Davidson and the Marlboro Man (1991)
An old fashioned 'buddy'
adventure. After learning they are about to lose their
favourite hang-out the boys decide to rob a corrupt bank but find
themselves the target of criminal bankers and killers of a drug
mob.
Starring: Mickey Rourke and Don Johnson
Genre: action
click on image to view movie preview
The Wild One (1953)
This iconic biker
flick was a landmark film for the 1950's rebellion. About
two rival motorcycle gangs who terrorize a small
town after one of their leaders is thrown in jail. The
Wild One was loosely based on on two actual California
motorcycle clubs of the day having a highly charged clash in the
small town of Hollister, CA. However, in true hollywood fashion
truth is soon blended into fiction.
Starring Marlon Brando and Lee Marvin
Genre: Classic film
Click on image to view movie preview
Mad Max (1979)
Mad Max tells a story of breakdown of society,
love and revenge. A vicious biker gang murder a cop's family
and make his fight with them personal. Filled with rage, Max
dons his police leathers and takes a supercharged balck pursuit
special (Ford Falcon XB GT 351) to pursue the gang and methodically
hunts down the gang members one by one. This movie features
breathtakingly fast car and motorcycle chases. All stunts were
performed on location. The Mad Max trilogy is brutal, fast,
and most importantly, extremely fun and one of the all time classic
cult 'road' flicks.
Starring: Mel Gibson
Genre: Sci-fi action
Click on image to view movie preview
Easy Rider (1969)
Easy Rider is an American road movie that tells
the story of two bikers who travel through the American Southwest
and South with the aim of achieving freedom. It explores the
societal landscape, issues, and tensions in the United States
during the 1960s, such as the rise and fall of the hippie movement,
drug use and communal lifestye.
Sarring: Peter Fonda, Dennis Hopper & Jack
Nicholson
Genre: cult film
click on image to view movie preview
Faster (2003)
A
masterful depiction of the 2001 and '02 MotoGP seasons that gives
international roadracing its due. The director takes us
through four main subplots, beginning with a sort of MotoGP primer.
Then there's the Valentino Rossi versus Max Biaggi duel that winds
its way through the film. There's Garry McCoy as the long-suffering
protagonist, carrying on through the unthinkable pain of horrific
crashes, and John Hopkins, the American prodigy, struggling to make
good in his first GP season.
Starring: Valentino Rossi, Max Biaggi and narrated by Ewan
McGregor
Genre: Documentary
Click on image to view movie preview
TT3D: Closer To The Edge
TT3D: Closer to the
Edge is a stunning a film about the 2010 Isle of Man Tourist
Trophy, the world's most famous annual road racing event which
transforms this beautiful small island into a bikers' paradise
where riders pit their skills against each other with a
determination to win and push themselves beyond their limits in
their bid to become "King of the Mountain". The races take place
along public roads packed with spectators who have come from all
over the world to watch bikes racing just inches apart. With
speeds hitting 200mph the TT has a reputation for excitement,
courage and danger. Following the journey of outspoken biker,
Guy Martin, and his bid to win the 2010 event the event also
touches on the harsh reality of the dangers: every rider knows that
each race might be his or her last. TT3D: Closer to the edge
lets you in on the heart-wrenching story of Bridget Dobbs, whose
husband, Paul Dobbs, lost his life during the Supersport 2 race in
2010.
Starring: Guy Martin
Genre: Documentary
Click on image to view movie preview
The World's Fastest Indian (2005)
New Zealand film based on the Invercargill
speed bike racer Burt Munro and his highly modified Indain Scout
motorcycle. Munro set numerous land speed records for motorcycles
with engines less than 1000 cc at theBonneville Salt Flats in Utah
in the late 1950s and into the 1960s. This
true story of a man who never gave up on his dreams of doing
something big -- and doing it very, very fast -- provides the basis
for a very engaging comedy drama.
Starring: Sir Anthony Hopkins
Genre: Biographical
Click on image to view movie preview
On Any Sunday (1971)
A documentary following the lives
of motorcycle racers and racing enthusiasts, including actor Steve
McQueen. First asking the question "Why do they do it?" this film
looks at the people who devote (and sometimes risk) their lives to
racing on tracks and off-road courses around the world
Modest aspirations, budget and technique made this a surprising
box-office hit back in 1971. Populist documentarian Bruce Brown (of
ENDLESS SUMMER fame) wanted to show how much fun motorcycling is
and succeeded. It's that simple. On Any Sunday is a film you
will definitely enjoy...even if you've never been on a motorcycle.
Not only is this film highly entertaining, it's also beautifully
photographed and filled with many laughs. The segment with Steve
McQueen at the end of the film is wonderful and it truly captures
what going out and taking a ride with your friends is all
about.
Starring Bruce Brown and Steve McQueen
Genre: Documentary
Click on image to view movie preview
MCR's Top 10 Most Memorable Motorcycle Scene
Picks
10. The Bourne Ultimatum
9. The World's Fastest Indian
8. The Wild One
7. Mission Impossible II
6. James Bond: Tomorrow never Dies
5. Terminator II: Judgement Day
4. The Great Escape
3. Batman: The Dark Knight
2. Matrix Reloaded
1. Easy Rider
Other Recommendations
- Winners Takes All
- On the Pipe
- Long Way Round
- Long Way Down
- Nitro Circus
- Crusty Demons
- The Doctor, the Tornado and the Kentucky Kid
- Erzberg
- TT Review
- The Great Escape
- Hell Angels On Wheels