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The 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 We would like to thank all our customers that visited us at the New York and Chicago International Motorcycle Shows; nothing like talking about in the winter to give you spring fever. Fortunately for us in the Northeast, the winter was mild and spring has arrived early. We are getting our bikes ready to ride (read about our detailing products below) and searching for the latest products to test and offer. Tire Care A recently introduced gadget that has been very well received is the RAM X-Grip™ Universal Holder. The X-Grip is RAM Mount’s solution to today’s ever growing cell phone Newsletter Spotlight and GPS market. Continued on Page 7 Motorcycle Review: Triumph Sprint GT - Gadget Ready Spring Detailing: Spring has arrived in the Northeast and it’s time to wipe down the bike; nothing like spending quality time with your motorcycle by polishing it up for your spring Helmets: What You ride. At MG, we have created a detailing product perfect for RAM X-Grip Holder Should Know the job. Our Plastix detailing kit is up for the task. Continued on Page 7 Customer Feedback and Requests

The Latest in Motorcycle Alarms Motorcycle News - A few articles of The following article provides a background on today’s alarms and highlights some of the interest features available.

Motorcycle alarms are a good investment and can provide the peace of mind you need to know your bike is safe. From parking your bike at home in your garage to parking Next Addition your bike overnight at the hotel, a good motorcycle alarm can alert you immediately and can prevent tampering with your bike and deter a would-be thief. Motorcycle Review: BMW K1300S

Some motorcycle manufacturers now offer alarm Product Spotlight: Bike-to-Bike systems as standard (or optional) equipment on Communication some new bikes, but the majority of today’s motorcycles have no protection other than a The Garage: Power Outlet Installation steering lock. Other manufacturers have added security features to the ignition that requires the key to be close to enable the ignition; but that just prevents a thief from starting the engine. Improvements in anti-theft technology have made Questions or comments? Email us at: Gorilla Cycle Alarm today’s motorcycle alarms affordable and easy to install and use. This article explores the most [email protected] common feature of today’s alarms. or call 866-BUY-MG4U Continued on Page 8

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 Tire Care: Simple Steps to Maintain your Tires

Tire care is one of the easiest and probably the most important maintenance items to perform on your bike. It goes without saying; take care of the tires that you ride on and they will take care of you. The following answers some basic tire care questions and highlights some simple rules to follow.

Factors that Impact the Life of a Tire  Over/Under Inflation: Improper air pressure can result in problems with both performance and wear. Riding on tires that are over or under inflated can also be dangerous. Under inflated tires will build excessive heat and can lead to a blow-out. Over Inflation can weaken the tires seal with the rim and cause a blow-out.

 Severe Impact: Bad road conditions or running into rigid surfaces can result in cuts, cracks, splits or bruises in the tread and sidewall areas.

 Chemicals: Gasoline and oil products can result in contamination of the rubber compound over time. Cleaners such, as Armor All can degrade the rubber and speed up cracking as well. Soap and water is always the best cleaner to use on tires.

What you Need to Know Quality Tire Gauges offered by Motorcycle Gadgets 1. Always check your tires pressure BEFORE riding – Your tire’s recommended air pressure is for cold tire inflation. After riding, the tire heats up and the pressure in the tire will be greater. Always use a quality digital tire gauge to get the best measurement.

2. Know your tires pressure level and load limits – Refer to your motorcycle’s manual for recommended tire pressure for normal and heavy loads. Most motorcycles have different pressure ratings for front and rear tires, and loads over 200lbs and 2 Lighted Tire Gauge passengers.

3. Inspect your tires – Check for any imbedded objects, bulging or excessive wear.

4. Secure the valve stem cap – The cap seals the valve stem and prevents leaks. At higher speeds, centrifugal force can open the valve inside the stem causing leaks.

5. Be prepared for roadside repairs – Repair kits can get you back on the road quickly Mini Digital Tire Gauge and portable air compressors are small enough to fit under some seats or in a tank bag.

Remembering these basic tire care facts can prolong the life of your tires and provide the best riding experience. And remember, “The most important thing riding on your tires is YOU”; quoting the Michelin Man.

Portable Roadside Repair Products

Mini Air Compressor

Measures 4” x 2” x 6” Weight: 14 oz.

Pocket Tire Repair Kit

Measures 7.5" x 3.5" x 1" Weighs: 12 oz.

Return to Cover Page Triumph Sprint GT - Gadget Ready

First introduced in 2011, the Sprint GT (Grand Touring) is the next generation of the Triumph Sprint ST (Sport Touring). The Sprint GT is a refined sport that delivers on performance while providing the touring features you need for longer trips. The motorcycle delivers the classic look you see in many sport bikes and comes standard with features you expect in a touring bike; most notably the saddlebags. The fairing is well designed and is sculpted around the engine with the turn signals moved from the fairing to the mirrors. The front fairing has a distinctive look with 3 halogen headlights and a sporty, low profile windscreen.

2011 Triumph Sprint GT Photos by Triumph Motorcycles Inc.

After spending some time with the Sprint GT, you will conclude that the bike falls more in the sport category than the touring category. As with many sport bikes, there are few extras. Absent are the heated grips, cruise control, adjustable windscreen and other features most required for a touring motorcycle. The Spring GT is capable of becoming the touring vehicle many riders want. Present is the power required for long distances. What is needed are a few accessories and gadgets, hence the title “Gadget Ready”.

Performance The Sprint GT borrows the same 1050cc inline 3- cylinder engine found in Triumph’s Speed Triple sport motorcycle. The fuel injected engine puts out 128hp at 9200rpms. The Sprint GT is improved over the ST with smoother throttle response, more power and torque and improved fuel consumption. The bike is a little on the heavy side, weighing in at 583lbs with a full 5.3 gallons of fuel. Features Those familiar with the previous models will immediately notice the change from the under seat exhaust to the side exhaust. This change was notably made to improve the passenger comfort. The Sprint GT features a sporty single swing arm that keeps the exhaust tucked away tight against the bike. As with previous models, anti-lock breaks are standard and is welcome with a bike this heavy. A feature seen on most motorcycles in this class but missing on the Sprint GT is the shaft drive. A blessing or curse depending on which side of the fence you are on. The chain provides the feel of a engagement, but requires the constant cleaning and adjustment for those use to the maintenance free advantage of the shaft drive.

The most notable touring feature is the standard-equipment saddlebags that hold a large 31 liters and are big enough to hold even the largest helmet. The aluminum rack is also standard, and comes pre-wired to accept an optional 55-liter top box. The top box features an internal mounted 12-volt power socket.

The dash features two analog (tach. and speedometer) and one digital gauge with a digital clock, fuel gauge and trip computer. The trip computer, operated by the 3 buttons below the tachometer, offers average and instantaneous fuel consumption, range, trip distance, average and maximum speed.

Accessories Triumph, unlike other motorcycle manufactures, offer a variety of accessories from the top box to a first aid kit. Some accessories worth investing in would be the higher windscreen, comfort gel seat and of course the top box. These accessories truly transform the Sprint GT from a pure sports bike to the sport touring bike it is intended to be. As with most manufacturer accessories, there is a high price for most accessories. The top box with all the necessary components will cost you $700. The Triumph toolkit, manufactured by Cruz Tools, is actually the Cruz EconoKit M2 with a Triumph logo. At a cost of $59.95, you may want to consider the same toolkit at $20 less.

Return to Cover Page Continued on the next page... Triumph Sprint GT (cont.)

Summary Triumph advertises this bike as, “Equally capable of crossing continents or taking on a track day”. That should be the motto for all sport touring motorcycles in our opinion. The Sprint GT aspires to be that. A day on the track, yes. This is definitely a sports bike that can handle the twisties and has the power for the track. The touring aspect needs a little help. With added accessories and a few must have gadgets, the Sprint GT lives up to this motto.

The overall cost of ownership is lower than most motorcycles in this class. The base price is $13,399 which is thousands less than other sport touring motorcycles. This price includes everything but the accessories, which can be pricey as most manufacturer accessories can be. As for gadgets, there is nothing out of the box; so consider it gadget ready.

Complete Bike Specifications

2011 Triumph Sprint GT Photo by Triumph Motorcycles Inc.

Additional Triumph Sprint GT Resources:

Official Triumph Sprint GT website - http://www.triumphmotorcycles.com/motorcycles/range/touring/sprint

Complete List of Sprint GT Accessories - http://www.triumphmotorcycles.com/accessories/create-my-triumph

Triumph Motorcycle History - http://www.triumphnapress.com/History.aspx

Triumph Sprint Forum - http://www.triumphrat.net/sprint-forum

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What You Should Know About Helmets

Why wear a Helmet? In the United States, it is proven that helmets reduce the risk of head injury by 62%. According to the Highway safety organization, US motorcycle fatalities tallied 4,376 in 2010, of which 42% were not wearing helmets. Currently in the US, only 20 states, plus the District of Columbia, have universal laws that require all motorcyclists to wear helmets. Some people believe that wearing a helmet is an intrusion on freedom. Unfortunately, there can be a cost for that freedom and it isn't free. At Motorcycle Gadgets, we wear our helmets for more than the obvious reason of safety. With today's technology, motorcycle helmet devices have evolved, providing riders with better options for helmets such as hands-free communication and entertainment using a number of different interfaces. Nothing beats riding your motorcycle while intermittently being able to talk to you fellow riders, listen to your favorite tunes and receive directions from your Navigation unit in a completely safe way.

If you live or are ride in a "no helmet law" state, you may choose to take the risk of riding with no helmet. At MG, we believe that wearing a helmet increases the chance of survival in the event of a motorcycle accident and can enhance the riding experience, plus we don't care about messing up our hair.

Choosing the Right Helmet Whether you are a beginner or experienced rider, choosing the proper motorcycle helmet is one of the most important choices you can make when buying motorcycle gear. At Motorcycle Gadgets, we wear full face helmets. However, each type of helmet has its advantages and disadvantages, and the one you prefer will likely depend upon many factors such as safety, comfort, appearance and cost. There are five basic types of helmets intended for . All five are secured by a chin strap, and their protective benefits are greatly reduced, if not eliminated, if the chin strap is not securely fastened so as to maintain a snug fit.

The Full Face helmet The Open Face helmet The Modular helmet The Half helmet is similar The helmet covers the entire head provides better visibility combines the safety to an open face helmet covers the entire head and offers the most than an full face helmet of a full face helmet but has no lower back. and has an elongated protection of any other but lacks the protection and convenience of This helmet provides the chin bar which allows for helmet. of a lower chin bar. an open face while minimum coverage gen- the flow of air during the not actively riding. erally allowed by law. physical exertion of this type of riding.

Helmet Safety Standards There are two organizations that set safety standards for motorcycle helmets in the United States, the Federal Government's Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Snell Memorial Foundation. To meet legal requirements for those states that have a mandatory motorcycle helmet law, all motorcycle helmets must meet the DOT standard, a minimum safety standard set by the DOT. Any helmet meeting this standard is required to feature a DOT sticker.

The SNELL Memorial Foundation is a private not-for-profit organization that sets voluntary standards for motorcycle helmets, bicycle helmets and auto racing helmets, etc. Snell Standards are the world's toughest. Manufacturers are required to put a Snell serialized label inside each of their Snell certified helmets by the Licensing Agreement.

Selecting the Proper Helmet Size

The first step in selecting the right helmet is choosing the proper size. Start by measuring the circumference of your head about 1 inch above the eyebrow with a cloth tape measure. If you don't have a cloth tape measure, use a piece of string instead and then measure the string against a ruler. Once you have the measurement, select the helmet select size that corresponds most closely to your head size on the manufacturer sizing chart. If you fall between two helmet sizes, try on the larger helmet first and then the smaller size. Keep in mind that manufacturers do not use the same standard for sizing. Each company has its own idea about shape and fit, so be sure to try on a comparable helmet before you pull the trigger on a purchase, even if it’s a good deal online.

Return to Cover Page Continued on the Next Page Trying on a Helmet Once the helmet is on, securely When trying on a helmet, it should go fasten the chin strap by passing on with some resistance. Simply hold the strap through the center of both the helmet upside down and place your rings. Then separate the rings, thumbs on the inside of the chin and pass the strap back between straps. Next, spread both sides of the both rings and pull comfortably helmet apart and slowly slip it over your tight without causing discomfort or head while pulling down on the chin choking. In order for your helmet straps. The helmet should fit snugly to function properly, the chinstrap but not to the point of cutting off your must always be securely fastened blood circulation. while in use.

Choosing the Right Helmet Fit With the chin strap still securely fastened and your head locked straight, grab the sides of the helmet or chin bar firmly and try to move the helmet from side to side and up and down. If the helmet slides on your skin or head, or feels like you can pull it off when you roll it forward and backward, it is too large. Proper fit means that the helmet is snug enough to move your skin when you try to move the helmet on your head.

Once you find the right fit, make sure the crown padding on the inside of the helmet is flush against the top of your head. There should be moderate contact between your cheeks and the helmets cheek pads. If there is excessive pressure on the cheeks, consider different sized cheek pads.

Equally as important, be sure that the back of the neck roll does not push the helmet forward when looking up. This could cause the helmet to roll down over your eyes in a forward leaning position. If you wear glasses while riding, make sure the helmet fits properly over and around them. Finally, remove the helmet and check for any red spots on your forehead. Pressure points can be uncomfortable and can cause a headache after a long ride, so you may want to choose a larger size or different manufacturer as every head and helmet are not the same.

Accessorizing your helmet There are other advantages to wearing a helmet other than safety such as adding accessories and unique gadgets. At Motorcycle Gadgets, our vision is to do for riders what we want done for ourselves, offer unique products at affordable prices online. We don’t sell products that we don’t believe in. Most importantly, we are dedicated to providing honest and professional service to our customers.

Moto-Hanger: Protect your helmet or tank bag from dirty floors and thieves by hanging it next to you on the edge of a table or flat surface with the Moto-Hanger™. Engineered to hold up to 15lbs., the Moto-Hanger is a is a light-weight foldable disc that is strong enough to hang most of your light riding gear, small enough to carry in your pocket and makes a great conversation piece. Each Moto -Hanger includes a black velvet storage pouch and a rugged gift box. The Moto-Hanger is a practical gadget that should be part of every rider’s arsenal.

Chatterbox: Chatterbox™ is the world's X1 Slim features: acknowledged market leader in bike to bike ▪ Maximum range of 5 miles communication systems for motorcycles. The ▪ Communication among unlimited riders products provide the most powerful, feature-rich ▪ Hands-free voice activation intercom devices available on the market. The ▪ Push to talk capability XBi2 model is the smallest unit that we have ▪ Rider to passenger communication tested and is ideal for riders in smaller groups of ▪ Make and Answer phone calls up to 3 people. The X1 Slim provides industry ▪ Listen to music & GPS wirelessly leading 5 mile range and is capable of ▪ FM Radio with 10 preset channels communicating among an unlimited amount of ▪ Multi-function Hi-Fi noise suppression headset riders over 22 channels. ▪ True Hi-Fi stereo speakers ▪ 8 hours of talk time and 20 hours of standby Return to Cover Page

-sam k. 03/25/12 What’s New at MG (cont.)

RAM X-Grip

The RAM X-Grip™ is a compact, universal mount for your cell phone, GPS navigation, iPod or other device that doesn't have that cookie cutter shape. The X-Grip is the perfect solution for holding today's larger cell phones and iPhones with protective covers. The spring loaded holder expands and contracts for the perfect fit of your device. The X-Grip has a clean and clever four leg design that provides extreme holding power without interfering with your devices power ports and controls. Made of high strength composite material with rubber tips; once attached, your device is safe from vibration and heavy impact.

As with all RAM products, the X-Grip is compatible and interchangeable with a wide variety of mounting options. Whether you want to mount your device to you handlebars (shown at right), fork stem, brake fluid reservoir, or multiple other areas, RAM has a product for your mounting needs. At Motorcycle Gadgets, we use and recommend RAM Mounts for that very reason; versatility.

To read more about the RAM X-Grip and to view our easy mounting guide, visit our RAM Mounts Page.

Spring Detailing

Odds are your bike collected some dust over the winter and some of the dirt and dead bugs left on from last Fall have solidified like glue. You spend a lot of money on your bike and accessories, so don’t just clean it with household cleaning products. Motorcycle windscreens, fairings, , instrument panels, and other bike parts can be easily scratched or be dulled if not cleaned with the proper products. At Motorcycle Gadgets, we created the ideal detailing kit for cleaning and polishing your motorcycle; safely and effectively. Our Plastix Detailing Kit contains two bottles of our Plastix cleaner, a plastic mini-scraper, and the highest quality micro-fiber towel.

Plastix

Plastix is a one-step plastic, glass and shiny metal solvent that is specifically formulated to clean motorcycle surfaces that can be easily damaged or scratched. When applied with our quality microfiber towel, Plastix provides a clean, scratch free, high-gloss finish that protects the bike surfaces from dirt, harsh road chemicals, and scratches. Plastix is safe, non-toxic and contains no alcohol or ammonia. The detailing kit comes with a 4 oz. bottle, for the garage, and a 1 oz. bottle to carry with you for the road. The 1 oz. bottle can be refilled and costs significantly less than other plastic cleaners on the market.

Plastic Mini-Scrapper

For the stubborn bugs and dirt, or removal of stickers, the plastic mini-scrapper is the ideal tool. The plastic mini-scrapper provides the same edge as a metal blade, but will not scratch the surface. Each scrapper comes with 2 plastic blades.

To read more about our motorcycle cleaning products, visit our Cleaning Products Page.

Return to Cover Page The Latest in Motorcycle Alarms (cont.)

It goes without saying that the most important feature of a motorcycle alarm is a very loud siren. Most alarms on the market today are a loud 120-130 decibel; the louder the better. Other common features to look for in today’s motorcycle alarms are:

Shock Sensor – The most common and probably the most important feature; the shock sensor activates the alarm when the motorcycle is disturbed. Most alarms provide an adjustable sensitivity level.

Tilt Sensor – Used in conjunction with or in place of the shock sensor, the tilt sensor activates the alarm when bike is stood upright from its side stand.

Power Sensor- This features activates the alarm when there is a drop in the motorcycle power, which would be common when the electrical system is being tampered with in order to disable the alarm.

Ignition Cutoff – This feature cuts power to the ignition preventing the motorcycle from being started. Special wiring is typically required to identify the ignition wires for installation.

Paging – When out of range to hear the alarm, the paging feature wirelessly alerts you that your alarm has been activated. Typical range is up to 1/2 mile.

GPS – Alarms with the GPS feature give you a chance to track and potentially recover your motorcycle after it is gone. This feature is typically more expensive and sometimes requires a subscription to a recovery service.

Other items to consider when purchasing an alarm are: Does the alarm come with multiple remotes in case you lose a remote? Is the siren and main electronics waterproof? And, How easy is it to install? Many of today’s alarms come as a self-contained unit that should be fairly straightforward to install under the seat or other concealed area and should be waterproof.

Is a Motorcycle Alarm right for your Motorcycle? Today’s alarms work on all makes and models of motorcycles. Most motorcycles are not alarmed, and thieves know that. A good alarm can protect your investment. With many alarms under $100, can you afford not to?

Other Security Recommendations:

Don’t advertise your bike – Park it in a garage or out of plain view. In some cases, plain view may be best. When we travel at Motorcycle Gadgets, we always ask the hotel if we can park our bikes at the entrance under the carport so that the hotel security can watch our bikes.

Cover your bike – A motorcycle cover is a deterrent and keeps people from squatting on your bike. A cover alarm provides added security and alerts you when someone removes the cover.

Grenade Cover Alarm

Reinforce your garage - Don't confuse a garage-door opener with a lock. A lot of motorcycles are stolen right out of the garage. Consider arming your garage as you would your house with a Zone Alarm. Xena Zone Alarm

Carry Insurance – When all else fails, insurance can replace the wheels (but not the memories). If the cost is too high to add theft to your insurance policy, consider adding the coverage just for long trips.

Return to Cover Page Customer Feedback and Requests

Chatterbox DUO – We have received a number of inquiries regarding availability of the new Chatterbox DUO. The new DUO is expected to be available by the first week in April. The DUO is Chatterbox’s latest low-cost communication device for rider/passenger or a single rider. Replacing the XBi, the DUO offers an extended range and advanced features to include Bluetooth remote control. The remote control feature allows you to control your Bluetooth devices wirelessly, keeping your attention on the road when riding. Chatterbox DUO

We are accepting pre-orders on our website at: CHATTERBOX DUO. The price is the lowest allowable resale price of $119.95. All pre-orders come with a $10 Motorcycle Gadgets Gift Certificate towards your next purchase.

Flat Rate Shipping: Everything Ships for one low Price – We have had a number of inquiries on what the cost of shipping is for multiple items. Our flat rate policy is simple: everything ships for one low price. We have recently reduced our flat rate shipping cost from $5.95 to $4.95 due to overall lower shipping costs. The advantage of flat rate shipping is you don’t have to worry about the rising cost of shipping as you add products to your cart; OR have to buy stuff you don’t necessarily need to make a $100 minimum for free shipping. At MG, our goal is to provide the best prices on the best products and we don’t believe shipping costs should be a factor in your purchase.

Motorcycle News

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

Need or Greed? The Case for Multiple Bike Ownership - Pros and Cons of multiple bike ownership Article link: RoadRUNNER & Travel

Virginia Law bars Motorcycle Only Checkpoints - May be coming to a state near you Article link: American Motorcyclist Association

Motorcycle Customer Satisfaction on the Rise - JD Power reports customers more satisfied with motorcycle purchase, quality, and accessories Article link: AllAboutBikes.com

Ten Things All Car & Truck Drivers Should Know About Motorcycles - Good tips to send to your non-motorcycle rider friends Article link: MotorcycleSafetyNews.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]

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