Any serious motorcyclist will know the essentials, like wearing appropriate safety gear, proper riding position, turning mechanisms, and how to do a push start. Wait, you don’t know how to clutch start a motorcycle? What happens if you can’t start the motor with the switch? Good thing you’re here. In just a few steps, you can learn how to effectively push start a motorcycle and get riding in no time.
Before You Push Start
There are a few things to keep in mind if you plan on push starting (also called bump starting and clutch starting) your bike. First, push starting isn’t the ideal method, and it sometimes doesn’t work.
Next, if your motorcycle isn’t starting, check some things that sometimes prevent a motorcycle from starting:
- Ignition kill switch – make sure the kill switch is set to the STOP position.
- Fuel level – your fuel gauge could be faulty, so pop the cap and check to make sure you’re not running on E.
- Fuel petcock – if you have a non-EFI bike, make sure the fuel tap petcock is OFF.
- Kickstand – some bikes have an added safety feature that prevents it from starting if the kickstand is down.
- Gear set in neutral – if the gear is engaged, the bike will refuse to start. Do a double-check.
If none of these apply to your situation, then it’s time to push start your bike.
How To Push Start
Follow these steps in the order listed.
Find A Hill
While you could get a few friends to push your motorcycle, you’re not always going to be traveling in a group. When that happens, you need to find yourself a hill. Steep slopes help you get to the proper speed to bypass the start system.
On a flat road? Don’t despair. If you can push the bike at a reasonable speed then jump on and release the clutch, you can still do a push start.
Engage 2nd or 3rd Gear
A lesser known trick to a successful push start is to avoid 1st gear and go straight to 2nd or 3rd gear. Avoid 1st gear entirely if your bike as a high compression engine.
The reason why skipping 1st gear is important is because you could potentially lock the rear tire, which would result in a crash.
Clutch, Release, and Start
Start moving down the hill to get speed while holding the clutch. As you start to gain momentum, release the clutch and press the start button in a seamless motion. Quickly apply some throttle, and the motorcycle should start. As soon as the bike is roaring, engage the clutch.
It’s important to stay in full control of the motorcycle. Please do this as far from traffic as possible, just in case you end up swerving.
If this doesn’t work on the first try, don’t give up. Stop. Reset yourself, and repeat the first three steps again.
Rev That Engine
This is the final step—the most integral. If you don’t immediately rev the engine, the motorcycle will die again. Stay focused.
Depress the clutch slightly and moderately rev the engine. Don’t let it scream. Keep the revving slightly high so the motor doesn’t choke down. The worse case scenario if you don’t rev the motor is that the bike will die, and you don’t want that—especially since you’ll still be rolling down a hill.
Optionally, once you have the engine running, you can switch to neutral and apply the brakes while revving the engine. This will help you stay focused on keeping the engine from choking. This works best if the motorcycle is cold.
Get Riding
Once the engine has warmed up, do a quick ride to make sure everything is working as it should. Remember that your safety is the most important thing when push starting a motorcycle. Be sure to practice the push starting methods a few times before attempting it for real out on the road. You should be wearing protective gear and be away from traffic. If not, you could seriously hurt yourself and others.
That wraps up how to push start a motorcycle. Just follow the steps that have been outlined, commit to safety, and you will soon be push starting like the pros!
Enjoy reading this article? Get more motorcycle tips and tricks by subscribing to my YouTube channel.
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Viking Moto Motorcycle Backpack Review
Viking Moto Motorcycle Backpack Review
Let’s all agree that the biggest problem with our bikes being daily transportation is the lack of hauling capacity.
So, just as in our scholastic days, backpacks to the rescue! But not just any backpack will do. We’re out in the elements, we’re hauling heavier stuff than a few books, and of course, we don’t want to look like a vagabond. That’s where awesome designs like the Viking Bag’s Motorcycle Backpack shine.
This isn’t your high school backpack, oh no. This Cordura backpack features a modern classic look with leather trim and an understated aesthetic that will match your jacket and your bike, no matter what type of bike you like to ride.
Let’s take a closer look at this awesome bag, and how it can make your daily rides so much cooler.
Shot and Edited by Shaun Maddox
https://shaunmaddox.com/
https://www.instagram.com/shaunmaddox/
Construction
As I said, this backpack is made of Cordura, a modern marvel of material sciences that fits comfortably on your body, while not being a floppy, frail backpack. With dimensions of 18.5”x12.5”x5”, you can carry groceries, personal items, or personal items with ease and comfort no other bag can offer.
Need more organization, or to haul some electronics with you? Well, Viking’s completely onboard with 21st-century life, including a laptop sleeve and stretchy, sewn in pockets for organizing your styluses, connection cords, your phone, and anything else delicate and vital you may need to carry.
That’s not even the coolest thing this bag can do. We all know how important our helmet is for safety, but when we get off our bike, it becomes a cumbersome nuisance to carry around or somehow safely secure to our bike. With this Viking bag, that’s not an issue, thanks to the stretchy helmet lining which can hold pretty much any helmet of any size no problem.
Gone are any excuses, whatsoever, to forego your helmet. You know who you are!
The Feel
I took one of these out for a day ride, that is about 6 hours round trip, to go shopping in another area (I usually wouldn’t, but it’s a good field test for gear like this). By the time I reached my destination, I almost forgot this bag was even attached to me, and that was with a heavy laptop and backup battery in my bag.
I did, however, notice that as I took the bag off when going into a restaurant, that my shirt was a bit damp, as I’d sweat from where it blocked air flow to an extent. However, having had other bags leave the back of my shirt completely soaked through, I’d call this a considerable improvement in that department. Given this bag is weatherized, it kind of can’t have the airflow of something mesh, and I’d rather sweat a tiny bit while having my stuff protected from the elements.
What really caught my attention was the lack of soreness or discomfort across my shoulders, neck and upper back. I’m a broad-shouldered fellow, which means most backpacks with any weight, tend to tug on muscles and leave me sore or even numb – the broad design of the straps both across the shoulders and waist, didn’t cause that problem at all.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- This is an attractive bag that doesn’t scream “hobo” or “kid”, with a professional yet casual aesthetic that matches any jacket well enough.
- It’s weatherized, and will protect everything with gusto.
- It’s very comfortable, and the strap designs don’t cause soreness, discomfort or circulation problems.
- I can carry my electronics in an organized fashion – this modern thinking is lost on a lot of biking gear companies.
- The helmet lining does the biking community two great services by making our helmets no longer a nuisance, and eliminating any excuses for anyone to foolishly leave their helmets behind.
Cons
- Being weatherized, you will sweat a little bit, it can’t be helped.
- While attractive, the black may not be everyone’s taste.
- I know a few hefty guys who might find the fit of this bag, adjustable as it is, to be a bit precarious.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
- Heavy duty Cardura Construction.
- Reflective piping for additional night time visibility.
- Built in helmet hood.
- Fits most 15″ laptops in padded compartment.
- Detailed organizer for your keys, wallet and other small items.
- Protective eyewear pocket.
- Duraflex® buckles throughout for added strength.
- Audio Ready.
- Height and width adjustable sternum strap.
- Aerodynamic molded body.
Conclusion
I like this bag. It’s not perfect, and I can see some room for improvement in variety of color schemes as well as a bit more adjustability in the straps for bigger people. I’d also like to see another model that’s stretchier, for if I have more stuff to haul back.
Nonetheless, this is a nice bag, and if you ride your bike for daily things like I do in decent weather, you owe it to yourself to give a bag like this a try!
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21 Summer Motorcycle Rallies for Summer 2018
What’s better than the open road and a summer breeze on your face? At RumbleOn, we believe that it can only be beat by joining thousands of others who live and breathe for the same experience. This summer, don’t miss your chance to join a community of riders from across the nation by checking out this list of 25 events in 2018. Make lifelong connections, show off your ride, or even buy or sell a bike of your own!
Looking for more ways to adventure? We’ve also compiled the Best Biker Bars and Food Spots, Best Sights to See, and Best Roads to Ride for you.
July Events
Monday, July 9, 2018 – Thursday, July 12, 2018
Bowling Green, KY
32nd Annual Women on Wheels International Ride-In™
Tuesday, July 10, 2018 – Thursday, July 12, 2018
Johnson City, TN
Hell’s Canyon Motorcycle Rally
Thursday, July 12, 2018 – Monday, July 16, 2018
Baker City, OR
Monday, July 16, 2018 – Friday, July 20, 2018
Provo, UT
2018 Cascade Country Rendezvous and GS Rally by BestRest
Thursday, July 19, 2018 – Sunday, July 22, 2018
Republic, WA
ABATE of Indiana’s 38th Annual Boogie 2018
Thursday, July 19, 2018 – Sunday, July 22, 2018
Springville, IN
Thursday, July 19, 2018 – Sunday, July 22, 2018
Muskegon, MI
North Dakota Ladies Run – 31st Annual
Friday, July 20, 2018 – Sunday, July 22, 2018
Dickinson, ND
South East Raider Rally – 10th Annual
Sunday, July 22, 2018 – Sunday, July 29, 2018
Maggie Valley, NC
CMA Florida Summer Springs Fling
Friday, July 27, 2018 – Sunday, July 29, 2018
Ft. McCoy, FL
GWRRA Montana District Convention 2018
Thursday, July 26, 2018 – Saturday, July 28, 2018
Missoula, MT
Friday, July 27, 2018 – Sunday, July 29, 2018
Las Vegas, NM
August Events
Thursday, August 2, 2018 – Sunday, August 5, 2018
Black River Falls, WI
Friday, August 3, 2018 – Sunday, August 12, 2018
Sturgis, SD
Apple’s 15th Annual East Coast Motorcycle Rally
Wednesday, August 8, 2018 – Sunday, August 12, 2018
Little Orleans, MD
GWRRA Kentucky Blast District Convention 2018
Thursday, August 16, 2018 – Saturday, August 18, 2018
Cave City, KY
12th Annual Surfside Beach Bash
Friday, August 17, 2018 – Sunday, August 19, 2018
Oyster Creek, TX
Winding Road Ranch Biker Party 2018
Friday, August 24, 2018 – Sunday, August 26, 2018
Rush Springs, OK
Pennsylvania Rally on the River – Summer
Thursday, August 23, 2018 – Sunday, August 26, 2018
Northumberland, PA
September Events
Thunder in the Rockies Motorcycle Rally 2018
Friday, August 31, 2018 – Monday, September 3, 2018
Loveland, CO
Friday, August 31, 2018 – Monday, September 3, 2018
Pioneer, OH
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Best Budget Motorcycle Helmet
Looking for a quality motorcycle helmet without breaking the bank? You’re not alone. Motorcycle helmets are a crucial safety investment, but navigating the options at a budget-friendly price point can be tricky. This article is here to help.
We understand the importance of balancing safety and affordability. That’s why we’ve conducted in-depth research to identify a helmet that offers both, exceeding what other budget options on the market can deliver.
Finding the Best Budget Motorcycle Helmet: Challenges
Skimping on a helmet is simply not an option. A motorcycle helmet is your first line of defense in a crash, and a well-made helmet can mean the difference between walking away and serious injury.
However, comparing features and quality within a limited budget can be a challenge. Many budget helmets sacrifice safety features or comfort for a lower price tag. Our goal is to help you find a helmet that prioritizes both without going over budget.
Stay tuned as we explore a helmet that defies expectations, offering excellent value for riders seeking a feature-rich, comfortable, and safe helmet around $250.
Key Takeaways
- Scorpion EXO Covert FX offers excellent value under $260, prioritizing safety, comfort, and features.
- DOT and ECE certified for meeting safety standards (depending on your region).
- Comfortable, removable, and washable liner for long rides.
- Anti-scratch, anti-fog visor for optimal clarity.
- Speaker pockets for easy communication system integration.
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Comparison Table Title: Top-Rated Budget Full-Face Motorcycle Helmets
Helmet Name Price (USD) Safety Certifications Liner Visor Features Additional Features Scorpion EXO Covert FX ~$260 DOT, ECE (depending on region) Removable, washable, moisture-wicking Anti-scratch, Anti-fog, Easy removal Speaker pockets Bell Qualifier DLX MIPS ~$280 DOT, ECE Removable, washable, anti-bacterial Anti-scratch, Anti-fog, Double shield system Pinlock-ready visor system, MIPS Brain Protection System HJC i10 ~$200 DOT, ECE Removable, washable Anti-scratch, Anti-fog Integrated sun shield No products found.
Notes:
- Prices are approximate and may vary depending on retailer and model year.
- This table is a starting point for your research. Be sure to read reviews and compare features before making a purchase.
Introducing the Scorpion EXO Covert FX
Coming in at around $250, the Scorpion EXO Covert FX stands out as a fantastic option for budget-minded riders seeking a feature-rich, comfortable, and safe full-face helmet. With its aggressive street fighter aesthetic, the Covert FX goes beyond just basic protection, offering a stylish design that complements your ride.
In-Depth Review of Scorpion EXO Covert FX
Safety Certifications:
Safety is paramount, and the Covert FX doesn’t disappoint. It meets the DOT and ECE safety standards (depending on your region), ensuring it has undergone rigorous testing to protect your head in a crash.
Comfort and Fit:
The Covert FX boasts a plush, removable and washable liner made with a moisture-wicking material. This translates to a comfortable ride, especially on longer journeys, and allows for easy cleaning after sweaty adventures. While the video mentioned potential sizing issues, the Covert FX comes in a wide range of sizes (XS-3XL) to ensure a proper fit. Finding the perfect size is crucial for both comfort and safety, so don’t hesitate to consult the manufacturer’s sizing guide or visit a motorcycle gear store to try one on before you buy.
Ventilation:
The Covert FX features a ventilation system with two intake vents on top and an exhaust vent at the rear. The reviewer in the video noted that airflow might not be the strongest, particularly for riders on naked bikes who experience more wind buffeting. However, for riders with fairings or those who don’t mind a bit more ventilation control, the system should provide adequate airflow.
Visor:
The Covert FX comes with an anti-scratch, anti-fog visor for optimal clarity and safety on the road. The video mentioned the visor is easy to remove for cleaning or replacement, a plus for keeping your vision clear.
Noise Levels:
The video reviewer mentioned some wind noise at higher speeds. While a quieter helmet is always preferable, this is a common trade-off for some budget helmets. If wind noise is a major concern for you, consider researching aftermarket wind tamer accessories that can be added to the helmet.
Additional Features:
The Covert FX includes integrated speaker pockets for easy installation of a communication system, perfect for staying connected with riding buddies or listening to music on your rides.
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Conclusion
The Scorpion EXO Covert FX is a remarkable helmet for budget-conscious riders who prioritize safety, comfort, and features without sacrificing style. It meets the highest safety standards (DOT and ECE), boasts a comfortable and washable liner, offers decent ventilation, and includes extras like a removable anti-scratch visor and speaker pockets – all at a price point under $250. As our research and the video review highlighted, the Covert FX delivers exceptional value for riders seeking a feature-rich, comfortable, and safe helmet.
If you’re looking for a helmet that excels in both safety and features without breaking the bank, the Scorpion EXO Covert FX is definitely worth considering. Several online retailers carry the Scorpion EXO Covert FX, and you can find more information and customer reviews with a quick web search.
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Additional Considerations
It’s important to note that the video review was based on a short-term assessment, and long-term durability remains to be seen. However, Scorpion is a reputable brand known for quality helmets, so you can be confident you’re getting a good product.
Finally, remember – a helmet’s most important quality is a proper fit. While we’ve provided information on the Covert FX’s size range, it’s crucial to try on a helmet before you buy to ensure a snug, comfortable fit. Visit your local motorcycle gear store and get sized by a professional to guarantee you get the best possible protection from your Scorpion EXO Covert FX.
Frequently Asked Questions About Budget Motorcycle Helmets
