The Kentucky State HOG Rally: A Must-Visit for Motorcycle Enthusiasts

There's something a little special about motorcycles that just doesn't apply to other vehicles on the road. Their owners tend to really love not only the motorcycle they own, but the entire culture that surrounds maintaining and showing off that bike around the country. This is perhaps why motorcycle rallies and meet-ups are the number one way for bikers to get together during the warmest months of the year, and it probably helps to explain why national and statewide rallies gain in attendance and prominence during each year that they're held.

In Kentucky, the art of motorcycle ownership and showmanship is celebrated in the as part of the state's unique Kentucky State HOG Rally. Each year, the Kentucky State HOG Rally is held in a different location, hosted by Harley-Davidson dealerships and motorcycle owners who seek to organize the best experience available for enthusiasts across Kentucky and in the greater southeastern region of the United States. In 2013, that rally looks to grow even bigger, just has it has done every year since its inception.

A Scenic Tour of the Kentucky Countryside for Everyone Who Attends

No motorcycle rally in any part of the country would be complete without a ride through some of that state's most scenic vistas and most challenging motorcycle ridership areas. The same is true of the Kentucky State HOG Rally, which allows its attendees to engage in a scenic ride throughout the rolling hills of the Bluegrass State. Those who attend this statewide rally of Harley-Davidson fans and motorcycle enthusiasts will appreciate a ride through farms and grazing areas for thoroughbreds, smaller towns, and a wealth of other locations.

Best of all, many of the roads used for the Kentucky State HOG Rally's ride through the state are especially "motorcycle friendly." That means they're traditionally lower-traffic roads, with wide traffic lanes and friendly conditions for riders of all experience levels. Some areas are, of course, a bit more challenging, but that's why taking this ride throughout the state is such fun. A few scenic moments, a few challenging riding experiences, and plenty of stories to share with those who didn't make the trip and attend the 2013 version of this growing event.

A Place to Meet and Greet Other Motorcycle Enthusiasts

The Kentucky State HOG Rally isn't just an excuse for bikers to take a scenic ride throughout the rolling hills of this rather rural state. Indeed, it's also a great way for Kentucky's motorcyclists to come together and meet each other, sharing stories and experiences about the road that are easily relatable. This aspect of the rally shouldn't be understated. After all, it's often said that those who don't bike are not able to fully understand bikers, and that's probably true.

Taking to the roads with a Harley-Davidson motorcycle, or any other brand, is a unique decision that requires a certain embrace of risk and adventure. Some people just can't relate to that. At Kentucky State HOG Rally, risk and adventure take center stage, as seasoned veterans of the road meet and greet younger bikers from all over the Bluegrass State. It's a great way to mingle, to learn, and to make new friends with similar interests. It might even lead to a new group of riders who can take trips together and show off as a group, and who wouldn't like that?

Of Course, it isn’t All About the Rolling Hills of the Countryside

Despite its largely rural reputation, and its largely rural reality, Kentucky does have some of the most inviting cities in the southeastern and Midwestern parts of the United States. Louisville, particularly, is a thriving city that invites locals and visitors alike to enjoy an outstanding nightlife and delicious cuisine. The organizers of Kentucky State HOG Rally typically make sure that this thriving metropolis is part of any ride through the state, introducing people to what makes Louisville a key part of the Kentucky Experience.

When combined with the Ohio River area of the state, the Louisville area offers a great experience that is both urban and scenic in nature. This year's event, held in London, Kentucky, offers those who attend the rally an opportunity to coast past the state's second-largest city of Lexington, as well. Attendees of this year's Kentucky State HOG Rally will appreciate the mix between urban, rural, and suburban, and it will present a unique challenge for every bike and biker that makes the trip to this year's event.

Kentucky's Greater Cultural Experiences Abound, Rally or Not

The Kentucky State HOG Rally is a leading reason for bikers to flock to the state in the summer of 2013, and every summer, but it's not the only reason to appreciate Kentucky as a strong tourist destination with plenty of things to offer those who book a trip to the Bluegrass State. As mentioned before, the cities of Louisville and Lexington offer a little something for everyone. From excellent dining experiences to thriving nightlife, Kentucky's cities are able to compete with any large city in the Midwest and beyond. Those cities, though, aren’t the only things that the state has to offer its guests.

The Kentucky Bourbon Trail is a particular area of interest for many visitors, and it's the perfect way to get to know Kentucky's thriving bourbon and whiskey industries. The state produces some of the largest and most well known bourbon and whiskey brands in the country, and offers visitors a way to experience each of those brands. A total of eight major distilleries lie along this so-called "trail," and seven craft distilleries constitute a second list of must-see attractions. Just be sure to bring a designated driver, or designated biker, in the event that a little too much bourbon sampling occurs throughout the day.

A Perfect Setting for an Engaging Rally

Kentucky's diverse landscapes, cities, and attractions, make it one of the best places for a motorcycle rally. The Kentucky State HOG Rally benefits from the unique, rolling hills, the urban landscapes, and the interesting attractions that line the state from east to west. Book a visit to the state today, and see why Kentucky State HOG Rally is growing at an astonishing clip each year.

Rider's Edge Classes: Learn How to Ride Safely and in Style with Harley-Davidson

There are few brands that are as uniquely American as Harley-Davidson. The company produces the single most popular brand of motorcycles in the country, and its fans and supporters arrange for major national get-togethers in various places throughout the country. That enthusiasm, though, isn't just picked up along the side of the road during an intense motorcycle trip. In the case of Harley-Davidson, motorcycle enthusiasm and brand loyalty are actually taught as part of the company's Rider's Edge program.

The Rider's Edge program is designed to give new and existing riders a sense of knowledge, safety, and best practices when they take their enviable motorcycle out for a spin in fair weather. It's no secret that motorcycles can be pretty dangerous, and the accidents they're involved in can sometimes be fatal. The company looks to ensure safety and smart operation through a series of classes that that are informative, fun, and help to promote its image as the premiere manufacturer of motorcycles.

Theory and Practice Make Perfect for Harley-Davidson Rider's Edge Students

Learning types undoubtedly vary between the many people who own Harley-Davidson motorcycles, and this demand a unique approach to education by the company's instructors nationwide. Each class taught by the company at its regional facilities throughout the United States is composed of theoretical classes and real world experience. Students of the Rider's Edge courses are actually ushered into a classroom, where they spend 25 cumulative hours learning about the various functions and safety practices associated with their equipment. They're taught by professionals in the field, who have been specifically qualified and authorized by the company to teach these skills.

Theory is backed up by real-world practice when the Rider's Edge students leave the classroom. The 25 classroom hours of motorcycle education are backed up by demonstrations and hands-on experience. Harley-Davidson locations throughout the United States maintain an up-to-date fleet of motorcycles that is specifically intended for use by Rider's Edge students. They'll get a feel for handling, operation, and their place on the road, all under the purview of an expert instructor.

Two Kinds of Courses for Two Very Different Kinds of Riders

Harley-Davidson knows that its riders typically come in two distinct varieties. The first is the rider who is completely new to motorcycle ownership and may not even have his or her motorcycle operation license before they've made a purchase. The second type of rider is one that has been operating motorcycles for quite some time, but is looking for added education about sharp turns on the road, judgment calls, and more advanced techniques. Luckily, the company does not force these two very different kinds of people into the same Rider's Edge course.

Instead, Harley-Davidson operates two distinct courses that best serve its different types of buyers and riders. The first, and most basic, is what the company calls its Rider's Edge New Rider Course. It's designed for those who may never have operated a motorcycle before, and it's a huge asset for safety and basic operation of the equipment.

For those riders who have a bit more experience under their belt, and those who are already licensed, Harley-Davidson's instructors teach a course known as the Rider's Edge Skilled Rider Course. This course is designed for those who are looking to add more knowledge to their existing pool of operational skills. Instructors teach more advanced techniques and allow for hands-on learning experiences that are quite a bit more daring than those offered to the newer riders in the entry-level course offering.

A Great Course for New Riders: How Rider's Edge Prepares Novices for the Road

The beginner-level Rider's Edge course is targeted to first-time buyers of Harley-Davidson motorcycles or those who do not yet have a motorcycle operation license. It's also targeted to people who are looking to acquire that license before they make their initial purchase at one of the company's regional retail outlets. Riders in this course are therefore treated to a slate of basic skills.

Each rider in this course learns about the specific model that they've recently purchased, or the one that they plan to purchase. This allows for the most accurate and timely information about safety procedures, precautions, and concerns. After learning about the specific model that they'll be operating, attendees learn essential skills like turning, braking safely, and controlling things like skids at a high rate of speed. They'll also learn how to overcome a number of common obstacles on the road in order to ensure that they do not get into an accident. Drivers will then use this knowledge on a closed course to learn how to properly operate the bike.

In some states, this entry-level course serves as a replacement for the written and road exam that is required to gain a motorcycle operation license. The certificate earned at the completion of the course can be taken to a DMV location and used as a waiver, with a license being issued immediately.

The Skilled Riders Course is Perfect for Seasoned Enthusiasts

After owning a motorcycle for quite some time, most people might feel like they've learned all there is to learn about controlling the bike and taking on more daring challenges. That’s hardly true, however, as there is always more to learn and more risky maneuvers to be undertaken. Harley-Davidson understands this, and their Skilled Riders course is designed to teach the best way to maneuver a bike through even more intense conditions.

Those who take the Rider's Edge Skilled Riders Course will learn how to control the bike at low speeds, or maneuver it through places where space is tight. They'll learn how to swerve and stop, as well as how to control the bike when speeds dip lower than usual. Attendees will learn how to judge curves, turns, and corners, as they relate to speed and angle. Hands-on experience will be given during lessons about avoiding or overcoming obstacles in the road.

A Fantastic Program Unlike Any Other

Harley-Davidson's Rider's Edge program is one of the most unique in the world, and it offers motorcycle enthusiasts a great way to make sure that they're staying safe while they're out on the road. From new riders to more seasoned veterans, Rider's Edge is a huge asset that shouldn't be ignored by motorcycle riders.

Knoxville Motorcycle Safety Class

Planning For Sturgis

The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in Sturgis, South Dakota is held annually and attracts nearly one million visitors each and every year. If you have ever attended this week long rally, you are most likely already planning your trip to next year's event. However, if you have never been to the Sturgis Rally, you may be wondering how you should begin planning for your trip to the awesomely crazy festival. There are a few things that you should keep in mind about the rally and some things that will be helpful to know along the way during your trip. These plans in advance will help you have the best and safest trip possible.

When Exactly Is the Strurgis Rally Held?
The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is held during the first full week of August every year. It is always held on the first full week of Monday through Sunday. Therefore, if the first falls on a Friday, the event would be held on the 4th through the 10th of the month. It always begins on a Monday and ends on a Sunday. This has been the tradition for over 70 years and will most likely remain. The month of August is one of the most pleasant times of year in this region with steady temperatures and enjoyable climate. This only increases the enjoyment for the thousands of visitors. If you are confused about the start and end dates of the event, you can use this information to be sure.

What About Helmets in the Area? Are They Required?
While motorcycle helmets are not a requirement at the event itself in South Dakota unless you are under the age of 18, the laws can differ in other states. If you plan to actually ride your bike to the event, as opposed to hauling it, you may want to check on the laws in other states that you will be traveling through. The American Motorcyclists Association is a great place to contact to find out about all state regulated laws and requirements when it comes to riding your bike. 

How Do I Get Tickets to the Various Concerts?
There are many great concerts and events at the Sturgis Rally that are free of charge for all visitors to enjoy. However, many of the concerts will require that you purchase tickets in advance. If you want to get the most out of the experience, it is a good idea to purchase your concert tickets before you go. You should also keep in mind that it is not uncommon for certain concerts to not be announced until just a few days before the scheduled start date. There are many sites where you can purchase exclusive tickets to Sturgis concerts and events.


Article Source / Full Article: http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Planning-for-the-Sturgis-Motorcycle-Rally/2968235

The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally

Sturgis, South Dakota is home to the largest Motorcycle event in the entire world. Nearly a half a million riders crowd into the city with a normal population of just over 7,000 people. The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally is always held the first full week of August. The weather is normally hot and dry, which makes it nearly perfect for motorcycle riding.

First Sturgis Motorcycle Rally and Race 
The first race and rally to take place in Sturgis, South Dakota was in 1938. It had a total of nine riders. Local motorcycle fan founded what was then known as the Black Hills Classic. From that first race in 1938, the race and rally has turned into a major tourist attraction with riders coming from all over the world to take part in the festivities. J.C. "Pappy" Hoel was the founder of this very popular event.

Sturgis, South Dakota was founded in 1878 and is located near Fort Meade. The U.S. Calvary soldiers came into the town for fun and recreation. The rally was named for the commander of the Fort, Colonel Samuel D. Sturgis.

The Jackpine Gypsies Motorcycle Club History 
Pappy Hoel was a member of this early organization. He started his career in his family's ice business but purchased and developed one of the largest and most successful motorcycle franchises in the area. The first race was held on August 14, 1938 with only a small group of people watching. The Jackpine Gypsies still own and operate the tracks and the hills where the event is centered. The club was inducted into the Motorcycle Hall of Fame in 1997.

Article Source / Full Article: http://EzineArticles.com/7377568

Used Harley-Davidson Motorcycles

Harley-Davidson motorcycles have been a beloved brand of motorcycles for many years. Thousands of people enjoy riding their Harleys on the open road with nothing but the sound of the wind blowing past their helmet and the roar of the engine rumbling beneath them. Since Harley-Davidson motorcycles are such a popular and high-quality brand of motorcycle, many people search for Harleys when shopping for a motorcycle. Though buying a brand new Harley may seem appealing, there are many benefits to buying a used Harley-Davidson motorcycle.

First, used Harleys tend to be a lot cheaper than brand new Harleys. Buying brand new vehicles over used vehicles almost always means getting what you want for a cheaper price. You can save hundreds or even thousands of dollars buying a used Harley instead of a brand new one.

You may think that this would also mean sacrificing quality to save that money, but this is not always the case. Many people who buy Harleys tend to take very good care of them. Harley-Davidson motorcycles are icons in the motorcycling community. Most people who own them take great pride in caring for their motorcycle, which will show when they try to resell it. However, many private sellers will have decent or even low prices with room for negotiation in order to sell it faster. Dealerships also lower their prices sometimes in order to move their products faster, but they tend to not have nearly as much room for negotiation nor do they tend to lower their prices very much on their own.

Second, many people buy Harleys to customize them for their own personalities and styles. There is a vast array of add-ons and customizations that motorcycle lovers add to their Harleys to make them unique and stylish. Some of these add-ons can cost thousands of dollars and they can be a great benefit to you both on the road and if you should ever choose to sell the motorcycle in the future.

More customization means more added to the price, but it is most likely much less than what you’d pay if you bought a brand new Harley and did all of that customization by yourself.

Third, Harleys tend to hold their value throughout the years. Any vehicle depreciates in value once it has been driven off the lot, but Harleys are beloved brands that tend to hold their values steady even after changing hands numerous times. As long as they are being cared for properly, depreciation isn’t a big issue with Harleys. Be sure to check the NADA motorcycle value before you buy.

Fourth, you have the chance to see and buy a rare or discontinued Harley. There are quite a few models of Harley-Davidson motorcycles that have been discontinued and some that are incredibly rare. Looking for used Harley-Davidson motorcycles gives you a chance to find, ride and own a motorcycle that not many people have had the chance to ride on before, own or even see. You may even get lucky and buy a Harley that is very rare and worth more than you paid for it.

Fifth, buying used Harleys gives you a wider range of selection than buying a new Harley would. Dealerships tend to showcase the newer models and not the older models. This leaves you somewhat stuck with just looking at newer models and any models a dealer may want to push out the door. Searching through used Harley ads gives you a much wider selection of choices in terms of model, color, style and more.

Sixth, buying a used Harley gives you a chance to get personal opinions on how well the motorcycle runs. Some sellers may embellish on their motorcycles to make a sale, but most people are very honest about their experiences with the motorcycle. You can get an idea of how well it runs and how well the owner has taken care of it after some conversation.

You may believe a new motorcycle has no problems right out of the lot, but this is not true. Many people buy new motorcycles and vehicles only to find an issue or factory defect that the dealership never noticed before. Previous owners usually know all of the current and potential problems with their motorcycles before they try to sell them.

Finally, buying a used Harley-Davidson motorcycle saves you from the frustration and risks of buying from a dealership. Many vehicle dealerships in general, not just Harley-Davidson, tend to try and nudge their customers into buying certain things they don’t need like add-ons, options or insurance. They also may try to sneak additional fees into your payment. In addition, buying a new car from a dealership has quite a lot of paperwork and financial issues to discuss and work through.

Buyinga used Harley from a private seller requires little trouble or paperwork. Whether you are a motorcycle enthusiast, a collector or just someone looking to start off in the motorcycle world, a usedmotorcycle can be just the right motorcycle for you.


Article Source:  http://www.articledashboard.com/Article/Benefits-of-a-Used-Harley-Davidson-Motorcycle/2965526

The Beauty of Traveling by Motorcycle

A motorcycle is a symbol of freedom. It's all about the compact power of the machine underneath you, the open road stretching out to the horizon, the speed and the wind in your hair. Taking a motorcycle on joyrides is a common thing, but how many people actually travel by motorcycle? At first glance, it seems inefficient, with little protection from the elements and not much space to pack. On the other hand, traveling cross-country on a motorcycle offers a unique and beautiful experience as you see the world as few others ever do.

Why Travel by Motorcycle?

Motorcycle travel has a number of advantages. They are much cheaper to keep fueled up and ready to go. The same amount of travel in a car, truck or SUV would cost far more for gas. Likewise, insurance tends to be cheaper than comparable car insurance.

Exposure to the elements is both good and bad. You get to feel the breeze as you ride, but you also have to deal with the rain. It gets worse if you're traveling in an area prone to sleet or hail, and winter travel is much less comfortable. Motorcycles also have the safety issue of car drivers acting recklessly around them. Experienced bikers wear plenty of safety gear and are constantly alert, however, so the chances of an accident are low.

Riding a motorcycle in a foreign country is also a great idea. Motorcycles can travel in places that cars can't -- back roads, half-paved trails and broken roads are found all around the world, and a bike can handle paths too small for cars. In some developing countries, it may be even easier to rent a small motorbike than to find a car, let alone navigate the complex networks of traffic put together more through social contract than through law.

What Gear and Equipment do you need?

Clothing is important for trips lasting more than a few hours. You'll need the proper dress for riding, of course. If the temperature is above 55 degrees, you'll need extra layers, which may be hard to pack away if you're heading somewhere warm. Electric vests help a great deal in maintaining temperature. You should always pack a sweatshirt and a pair of swim trunks, just in case.

When it comes to packing everything, backpacking or hiking stores are a godsend. You can easily find a small kit that contains everything you need: toothbrush and paste, shampoo, razors, scissors, cotton swabs and any other bathroom tools you may want.
If you're traveling at high altitudes, like in the Rocky Mountains, or far north into Canada or northern Europe, you'll want heavy winter clothing. Snow pants, an electric vest and heavy gauntlet gloves are necessities. You don't want to freeze to death while you're riding. Don't be afraid to spend extra for a high quality jacket. Unless something shreds it in an accident, you'll likely get years of use out of it, making it worth the price. Just make sure it has a high collar that zips over the neck -- you don't want the breeze cutting through your collar and sucking out all your body heat.

You should also carry plenty of useful items, just in case. Pack a saddlebag or two with these and you'll be prepared for pretty much any situation that could come up on the road. Here's a reasonable checklist of things to include:

• Papers and Cards: AAA card, passport, insurance card, cash, credit cards, maps
• Clothing: Bandana, belt, goggles, hat, rain gear, shoes, spare gloves, socks, sunglasses, sweatshirt, shop towels
• Electronics: GPS, MP3 player, camera, cell phone, laptop computer
• Gadgets and Tools: bungee cords, cable and locks, first aid kit, flashlight, siphon hose, pen or pencil, plastic bags, chain lube, multitool, zip ties, earplugs, tire pressure gauge, spray bottle

You may or may not want extra camping supplies if you plan to camp out rather than staying in a bed and breakfast or motel along the way.

The following are great dealers to get the much needed to gear for your trip:
Smokey Mountain Harley-Davidson outside Knoxville, TN
Wildcat Harley-Davidson outside Lexington, KY

Packing it All

Depending on the volume of stuff you're packing, you'll want a number of bags to carry it all. Saddlebags can hold most everything, but you'll also want a tank bag to hold your most-used items. No matter what bags you pack, make sure anything you will use on a semi-regular basis is easy to get to without unpacking everything.

Never strap something to the front of your motorcycle. Your bike's engine requires the airflow from the forward motion of travel. Without this airflow, you risk the engine overheating and causing damage. You can find somewhere else to strap it or find something to not take with you.

Pay attention to your center of gravity. You don't want too much weight stacked to one side or the other; it will pull you sideways as you ride. One slip and you could tip over and cause problems for yourself or other drivers. Try to keep heavy items packed low, so your center of gravity is low and you don't risk blowing over.

If you're carrying a lot, be sure to check how much your bike can actually handle. All motorcycles have load limits, and you don't want to exceed them. Your bike will still work, but you'll have more mass and have a harder time stopping or maneuvering.

Avoid packing anything too close to the exhaust pipes or drive chain. The last thing you want is for a bounce on the road to drop your saddlebag into your hot exhaust pipe and catch the whole thing on fire. Likewise, being caught in a chain can be catastrophic in motion.

Once you're past the hassle of packing, you're ready to enjoy the open road. The world has plenty to offer a traveler, from beautiful landscapes to unique people to amazing food. Avoid chains and stop in at local stores and you're sure to have a wonderful experience. Taking a long motorcycle trip is an experience not to be missed.

How Motorcycle Helmets Have Improved to Save Lives

The history of the motorcycle helmet can be dated as far back as 1885, when the first helmets were introduced. These helmets were very crude in comparison with the modern motorcycle helmets that are now available. They consisted of a leather cap that was lined with a material based from plants called pith. With time, these helmets became obsolete due to the fact that they did not offer much protection once motorcycles began to become more powerful.

Starting in 1931, Harley-Davidson and Indian Motorcycles began to run races that caused the number of deaths during motorcycle accidents to dramatically increase. It was during this time that Professor C.F. Lombard began to develop a helmet that could withstand the impact of a crash. This helmet was created with the absorption of the crash in mind. A comfortable layer was cushioned by an outer layer that absorbed shock waves but was also able to distribute them evenly to prevent fatalities.

By 1953, Lombard received a patent for this helmet and started the frontier of modern motorcycle helmets. Once the standard helmet had been created, many other motorcycle helmet distributors began to follow the design that was first created by Lombard.

Motorcycles helmets have been improved using high-absorption sponges and advanced plastics to protect a rider. They are typically constructed of expanded polystyrene foam and an outer shell that will protect the skull. Visors are made of Lexan glass to improve the chances of any type of penetration by sharp objects. The ultimate function of a motorcycle helmet is to protect the skull from an type of punctures and to provide a cushion that will de-accelerate a rider's head during impact. This will lead to a decrease in force that is placed on the skull of a rider.

In today's modern world, there are five different types of helmets that offer varying levels of protection. These helmets are strapped to the head using a chin strap and are effective in keeping the helmet in place during an accident. The full-face model is able to protect the full head of a rider and is considered one of the most adequate helmets for riding. It features a visor and chin protector that will protect a rider's head completely.
An off-road model has a design that is quite similar to the full-face helmet. However, this model of motorcycle helmet does not offer a visor to allow for better vision during rides. A modular helmet, also known as a 'flip-up', is the next best model in terms of protection. The chin component of the helmet can flip up and gives the freedom of being able to talk, eat, or drink and still allow the helmet to stay on. During rides, the chin protector is flipped down to offer maximum protection.

A three-quarter motorcycle helmet does not offer the same amount of protection that is mentioned in the previous models. It offers substantial protection for the back of the skull but is open in the front and will not protect a rider's chin or face during a crash. A half-helmet, also known as a 'partial coverage helmet' features minimal protection and only will keep the top of a rider's head safe. This model is often used to cover riders legally and is not a safe helmet.

During accidents, one of the most frequent traumas occurs in the face and brain. The half-helmet and the three-quarter helmet are not recommended for riders who may sustain more serious injuries. Currently, the Department of Transportation is conducting extensive testing to help improve the likelihood for survival during a motorcycle accident. This government agency uses extensive computer systems with crash-test dummies to dramatically reduce the amount of fatalities caused by motorcycle accidents. With time, these tests will only further increase the safety of motorcyclists and help pave the way for safer riding.