What's New at MG the Latest in Motorcycle GPS the Garage

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The Motorcycle Gadgets Newsletter is a quarterly report of what’s new at MG, the latest in the gadget industry, our take on useful motorcycle news, and much more... The Garage

What’s New at MG It has been a busy summer of riding and testing out new gadgets and the latest products. It may come as a surprise that there are a lot of products that we evaluate that never make it to our store. Let’s face it; if we can’t stand by the product then it’s hard for us to make a case for our customers to buy it. But when we do find something that makes sense or makes our ride more enjoyable, then we are very excited to offer the new products. Oil Change 101

One item we found that we couldn’t wait to offer is the Yurbud headphones. So, what makes headphones a gadget or Newsletter Spotlight something you would find on a motorcycle website?‖ Continued on Page 6 Motorcycle Review: Honda VFR1200 - Other gadgets we have recently added are the Toll Pass Mount The Gadget Minimalist and the Chatterbox Drone alarm. The Toll Pass Mount has made getting through the toll booths a breeze. The Chatterbox Look who’s talking Drone alarm is an extremely low cost security solution for Yurbud Headphones about MG on the web riders looking for advance features such as ignition cutoff. Read more about these products on Page 6 Roads: Explore the Pocono Mountains

The Latest in Motorcycle GPS Customer Feedback and Requests The following article provides a background on Motorcycle GPS and answers some of the questions on what makes these units a unique gadget. Motorcycle News - A few articles of interest Electronic gadgets are part of our everyday lives. When you think of electronic gadgets, GPS units are on top of most device lists. Being able to withstand rain, cold, vibration, impact, and other extreme conditions are features you don’t typically find on most electronic gadgets let alone GPS units. Motorcycles are built for the rugged elements and Next Addition electronic GPS units are not. This is where today’s motorcycle GPS units come into play. Motorcycle Review: Triumph Sprint GT What Makes Motorcycle GPS Units Unique? Motorcycle GPS units have been around for a while Product Spotlight: Motorcycle Alarms and their physical design has been basically the The Garage: Tire Care same. The main advantages typically are large displays, waterproof housings, and large buttons. The large sunlight-readable displays let you quickly glance for directions and the large buttons allow Questions or comments? riders to easily navigate the screens with gloves. Email us at: The most demanding requirement for a motorcycle [email protected] Garmin zūmo GPS GPS is it must withstand the elements. or call 866-BUY-MG4U

Continued on Page 7

Motorcycle Gadgets LLC is an online retailer, specializing in unique gadgets and accessories for motorcycles. We respect your right to privacy and do not sell or distribute customer e-mails. If you wish to be removed from our mailing list, please notify us at: [email protected]

All correspondence, please send to: Motorcycle Gadgets LLC P.O. Box 4139 — Leesburg, Virginia 20177 Oil Change 101

Changing your motorcycle’s oil on a regular basis keeps your bike running at its peak and is critical to the life of the engine. Unless you just bought your first vehicle, you have heard this a thousand times. Odds are you hear this every time you take your car to the shop even for minor repairs. While changing the oil in your car requires some acrobatics getting underneath the car and some skill to keep oil from running down your arm; changing the oil on a motorcycle is fairly simple. The easy access to the motorcycle engine makes changing the oil an easy DIY task. It can not only save you money, but will more than likely be a fulfilling process; a perfect opportunity to spend more time with your motorcycle.

So what do you need to know? The following answers some basic questions and provides a simple 10-step process.

How much do you save by changing the oil yourself? A typical oil change at the dealer can cost you $50 or more. Changing the oil yourself can cost you less than $25 depending on the brand of oil and requires a minimal investment in tools.

How often do you change the oil? Depending on the type of riding, the general rule is every 3000 miles or once a year. After sitting through the winter months, it is advisable to change the oil before hitting the roads.

What do I need to know? Here are 4 basic principles we recommend when changing your motorcycle oil:

1 - Always buy the motorcycle manufacturer’s oil filter. I’m sure we will get people writing us saying that the aftermarket brand filters are just as good and cost less money. That maybe the case, but why chance it. The OEM oil filter is made specifically for each motorcycle engine and was engineered for proper fit and function. The aftermarket brand filter was made to replicate the manufacturer filter but at a lower price. 2 - Invest in an oil socket wrench. Oil filters do not go on with much torque, but they will tighten up over time. A good socket wrench makes removing the oil filter easy. The socket wrench also makes getting to the filter easier on bikes with full fairings and protruding exhaust pipes. Shop HERE

3 - Never drain the oil when the engine is extremely hot or cold. When the engine is cold, the oil is too thick to drain properly leaving sediment in the engine. If the oil is too hot, the oil is too thin and can leave the engine exposed to damage when hot; not to mention it is HOT.

4 - Always buy a new washer for the drain plug. This prevents most leaks and costs pennies to replace. Universal Oil Socket Wrench

The 10 Step Oil Change

Engine should be warm to the touch before changing the oil. Have oil pan ready to catch the old oil.

Tools Required 1. Locate and remove the drain plug (drain plug will be located at the lowest part of the engine). Let oil - Filter Socket for oil filter completely drain from the engine, approx. 5 mins. removal 2. Temporarily reinstall the drain plug by hand; do not tighten

- Box Wrench or a Ratchet 3. Locate the oil filter and move your oil pan directly under the filter. Loosen the oil filter with the filter and Socket for removal of socket and slowly remove the oil filter by hand. Clean remaining oil with a shop towel. drain plug 4. Before installing the new oil filter, lubricate the rubber seal on the oil filter with the old oil in the pan - Funnel to pour new oil (lightly lubricate using your finger or a towel) into crankcase (Free at 5. Install the new oil filter by hand. Once firmly on by hand, tighten the filter another half turn using the most gas stations) socket wrench. IMPORTANT: Do not over tighten the oil filter.

- Something to catch the oil 6. Clean any oil that may have dropped onto the engine when removing the oil filter. ($5 pan at auto supply, 7. Move the oil pan and remove the drain plug to allow remaining oil to drain. litter pan, etc.) 8. Clean the drain plug, install the new washer, and tighten the plug. IMPORTANT: Do not over tighten the drain plug bolt. Tighten the drain plug unit it seats and then give it an additional half turn.

9. Add new oil to the engine using a funnel. Check the oil level while adding new oil and avoid overfill- ing. Check your owner’s manual for the type and amount of oil to add.

10. Let the motorcycle run for 5 minutes and check for leaks.

The old oil can be easily recycled by pouring the oil from the oil pan into the new empty oil containers and dropping them off at your dealer or recycling center. Honda VFR 1200F - The Gadget Minimalist

The Honda VFR1200F was released in 2010 with much anticipation. There was much hype about the new VFR model being the new upgraded Interceptor and the long anticipated retirement of the ST1300. Two years later and the 2010 model for the VFR1200F still sits in the showroom and the Interceptor and ST1300 are still rolling off the assembly line. At first we were wondering if the VFR1200F was intended as sports bike or a touring bike. If you go to Honda’s website, it is listed under the Sport section with the likes of the 600 and 1000RR. After further inspection, we concluded that the VFR1200F truly looks and performs like a sports bike.

2010 Honda VFR 1200F Photo by Honda Motor Corp.

Just as we were sold on the new sports bike look and feel, we rediscovered the VFR1200F at the January 2011 International Motorcycle Show fitted with saddlebags and a top case. At that point the bike instantly became a sport touring bike in our mind. Missing from the VFR1200F, however, were all the gadgets we are used to seeing on a touring bike. No fancy glove box, no trip computer, no auxiliary outlets, etc; hence the ―Gadget Minimalist‖ title.

Performance What the VFR1200F lacks in gadgets, it makes up in performance. The 1237cc V-4 engine is the stuff you brag about when you pull up next to other sport bike riders. The VFR1200F’s engine features a unique layout with the two rear cylinders located closer together than the front two, making the engine more compact for increased rider comfort. Measured horsepower is 142 bhp @ 10,000 rpm and the ¼ mile time right at 10 seconds. As with most sport touring motorcycles, the VFR1200F is shaft driven. The curb weight (full tank of gas and all fluids) is a slightly heavy 590lbs. This is 20lbs heavier than the BMW K1300S and 100lbs lighter than the Kawasaki Concours 14.

Features Key features of the VFR1200F is Honda’s first throttle-by-wire acceleration, combined front and rear anti-lock braking system, compact exhaust system, and the optional ―first of a kind‖ dual transmission. Honda’s Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) provides both manual and automatic transmission. The instrument panel is very simplistic with the tach front and center, digital speedometer, fuel meter and a clock.

Accessories When Honda added the accessories to their list for the VFR1200F, there had to be 2 competing customers. Offering up carbon fiber accents was definitely targeting the younger riders. The lower, more comfortable seat, and optional wind deflector was for the older riders. Other add-on accessories now include the heated grips that most sport touring riders come to expect.

Continued on the next page... The Gadget Minimalist (cont.)

Summary This bike is for the 40-something rider that is not ready to give up the sports bike performance and look-n-feel, but is ready to take on those longer weekend rides and needs additional comfort features and luggage to boot. The bike has more power than a lot of sport bikes and is faster than most sport touring bikes on the market. The ergonomics of the bike are exceptional. The layered fairing is both attractive (there are no bolts or fasteners showing) and effective at funneling air away from the rider. The seat is well crafted and comfortable with additional padding required for longer trips. The cherry-red paint and black accents are very well done, making the bike stand out in the crowd of the sport touring class.

The overall cost of ownership is not for the price conscience shopper. The base price starts at $15,999 and goes up from there. Interested in the DCT feature, the base price goes up to $17,499. The added saddlebags and top case easily add another $2000. As for gadgets, consider it a blank canvas for your customization and enjoyment.

Complete Bike Specifications

2010 Honda VFR 1200F Photo by Honda Motors Corp.

Additional Honda VFR 1200F Resources:

Honda Introduces 2012 VFR1200F in Blue - http://powersports.honda.com/2012/vfr1200f.aspx

Rider Magazine: 2010 Motorcycle of the Year - http://powersports.honda.com/experience/articles/090111c080c48de2.aspx

Complete List of VFR1200F Accessories - http://powersports.honda.com/2010/vfr1200f/accessories.aspx

VFR Forum - http://www.vfrdiscussion.com Roads: Pocono Mountains - Northeast Loop

The Pocono Mountains span hundreds of miles in northeastern Pennsylvania, bordering New York to the north and New Jersey to the east. The Poconos is easily accessible from points in New York, Connecticut, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia and offers a variety of accommodations and activities. The starting point for this route is at the ―Heart of the Poconos‖ in Mount Pocono, PA.

Route Description: The route is approx. 130 miles with varying degrees of turns and elevation. The ride starts off through sloping hills that lead you through sweeping roads along Lake Wallenpaupack. The northern end of the route enters into New York and parallels the Delaware river. The highlight of the trip is the ride through Hawks Nest NY; one of the best motorcycle roads in the northeast. At the point where NY, PA, and NJ meet, the ride takes you along the valley that separates PA from NJ, through the mountainous area of Delaware Water Gap. Total ride time is 3.5 hours, but plan on 5 hours as there is a lot to do and see along this route.

Click on pictures for larger image

Route Itinerary

Point of Interest (POI)

Summary: The route is a good mix of riding through mountains, valleys and along waterways. The overall route is very scenic and the roads are well maintained by Pennsylvania standards. Fall is probably the best time for this route with the colored leaves and crisp temperatures. Unlike other rides we have taken through PA, there are a lot of points of interests along the route if you have the time. There are a number of museums (Indian museum, Glass museum), architecture interests such as the oldest suspension bridge (Roebling Bridge), and several roadside attractions. Enjoy, and ride safe. What’s New at MG (cont.)

Drone - The new Chatterbox Drone alarm system is a feature packed alarm, providing dynamic shock sensor technology, theft resistant starter disabling, 125dB compact Piezo siren, and flashing headlight visual. The security system shows a blue status LED warning for easily checking the status of the motorcycle. Once installed, the system uses a simple wireless remote system for operation.

Read more about the Toll Pass Mount

Yurbud Headphones (cont.)

A lot of riders now listen to music or use an intercom unit when riding. At Motorcycle Gadgets, we have gone through a number of headphones and earbuds over the years and have never found the perfect fitting set that doesn’t become dislodged when putting on your helmet or come out of your ear while riding. There is nothing more irritating than not being able to hear your music or be able to understand your fellow rider over the intercom. The Yurbuds solve this problem.

The Yurbuds were designed for high impact athletics and we have adapted them for motorcyclists. The Yurbuds have a patented twist lock design that prevents them from dislodging or moving when inserted. You can easily put on your helmet without the headphones falling out. The Yurbuds will not come out even when tugging on the speaker wires. Read our full review and watch the video to see how dependable they are at: Yurbuds

WWW: MG on the Web

CycleFocus.com – This site is Chicago area’s number one print and online magazine for new and used motorcycles. The following is the excerpt from the article CycleFocus choose to write after trying out the Moto-Hanger: CycleFocus/Moto-Hanger

WaterproofDigitalCamcorder.com – A GoPro HD action camera sponsored site. View our many GoPro videos at: http://www.waterproofdigitalhdcamcorder.com/?s=motogads

2Wielen.nl – ―Alles over motoren, motorreizen en motor gadgets‖ or we believe translates to everything about motorcycles and motorcycle gadgets in Dutch. Our gadgets are now very successful in the Netherlands. Motorcycle GPS (cont.)

Today’s units are designed and tested to meet industry certification standards for electronic equipment enclosures with a requirement to remain submerged for an extended period of time and to be able to withstand vibration and shock. Not only are the Motorcycle GPS units made to be durable, they are also packed with features to make the ride more enjoyable. In addition to the basic GPS features, most units feature wireless Bluetooth communication, cell phone synchronization, MP3, XM radio, and trip computer software. The Bluetooth communication allows you to wirelessly hear turn-by-turn directions, take a call from the road, and listen to music via the integrated MP3 or by XM radio.

Who Makes Motorcycle GPS Units?... Garmin and TomTom were the predominate manufacturers to enter the motorcycle GPS markets. TomTom was first out with its Rider and then Rider 2. Garmin introduced the zūmo 450 and 550. After several years on the market, the Garmin zūmo 550 became the standard in the industry and TomTom left the US motorcycle GPS market. In the last couple of years, Garmin has introduced three new, more advanced units in the zūmo 220, 660, and 665. The zūmo 220 was introduced as a lower cost unit while the 660 and 665 models offer the widescreen and feature-rich functions riders demanded in the 550. Garmin has mastered the concept of ―Out of the Box‖. All zūmo units come with a standard Ram Mount cradle and mount for installation on handlebars.

Garmin zūmo Features… The Garmin zūmo units all feature a bright touch screen color display with an easy-to-read format that is glove- friendly. All units are made to withstand the rugged elements, fuel sprays and UV rays. FM Traffic is an included option. The main features are listed in the table below.

Product

Is a Motorcycle GPS Right for You?... If you live in today’s multi-media environment where travelling means listening to music (or XM radio) and taking an occasional cell phone call while navigating down the highway; and you occasionally find yourself navigating the dirt roads or back roads; and if you are the type of rider that doesn’t shy away from the rain and temperature extremes; then this is your type of electronic gadget.

For more information and complete specifications, please visit: Motorcycle-Gadgets/Navigation Customer Feedback and Requests

Competitively Priced Products – We have received a number of inquiries regarding our low prices. Some customers question how we can sell items at prices below our competitors and if we are selling refurbished products. The answer is simple: we never sell refurbished products, and when available, we always buy directly from the manufacturers so we can pass the savings on to our customers. A little known fact in this business is that most motorcycle accessory dealers buy all their products using a third party distributor, most notably Parts Unlimited and Tucker Rocky. We don’t do that at MG. In fact, we really don’t like third party companies as they restrict what they offer and what you can purchase.

At Motorcycle Gadgets, we enjoy working directly with the manufacturers and like to provide our input on the products they sell and we use. In return, our customers get the best products, at the best price, with the full manufacturer warranty.

Motorcycle Gadgets Gift Certificates – Based on customer requests, we now offer gift certificates. The gift certificates are easy to order and can be printed out or sent to the recipient electronically. Gift certificates are available in increments from $5 to $1000 and never expire. To learn more, visit the website at: http://motorcycle-gadgets.com/Gift_Certificates.php

International Shipping – We have had a number of inquiries for shipping international. We do offer international shipping. Unfortunately with international shipping, tariffs and rates vary by country and a standard flat rate does not work. In order to process international orders, we must first provide a shipping quote. Customers are asked to send their order request to [email protected].

Motorcycle News

A few articles of interest we discovered while researching new products and accessories.

The 10 Best Touring Parts and Accessories (Find 6 of the 10 best touring accessories at Motorcycle Gadgets) Article link: Motorcycle.com

Riding in a Proper State of Mind - Operating a Motorcycle is 90% Mental and only 10% Physical Article link: Road Runner Motorcycle Magazine

6 Million Students Graduate Motorcycle Safety Foundation Motorcycle Gadgets is a proud sponsor Article link: MSF-usa.org of the Motorcycle Safety Foundation

IMS Schedule and New Features - Look for the Motorcycle Gadgets Booth at Upcoming Shows Article link: MotorcycleShows.com

Motorcycle Gadgets LLC, operating as Motorcycle-Gadgets.com with a short name of Motogads.com, is an online retailer specializing in unique gadgets and accessories for both the casual and serious motorcycle rider. The company strives to provide an exceptional customer service experience and unique product reviews and recommendations.

All correspondence, please send to: Motorcycle Gadgets LLC P.O. Box 4139 — Leesburg, Virginia 20177

We respect your right to privacy - If you received this as an e-mail in error or wish to be removed from our mailing list, please notify us at: [email protected]