If you have always wanted to record turn-by-turn commentary on your rides and you use a GoPro Hero 3 or 4 to record, the Sena GP10 Bluetooth pack is a must-have accessory. The “BacPac” allows you to record narration in real time using Sena’s “Ultra HD Voice Recording” mode or the “Normal” mode. You can even combine voices from other intercom users so the entire conversation can be used as an overlay voice-over. Download the Sena GP10 User Guide Here
What is the Sena GP10 Bluetooth Pack for GoPro?
Using Bluetooth headsets, the Sena GP10 Bluetooth Pack allows you to narrate the video while you are recording, reducing the need for audio editing and creating real-time audio experiences as part of your video. It is only compatible with the GoPro Hero 3, 3+ and 4 cameras. The microphone can capture voice and sound up to 110 yards and has a talk time of up to three hours.
Using the Sena GP10 GoPro Backpack
Connecting the GP10 is simple, attaching like any other GoPro accessory. Gently push the connector into the bus slot and hook the end over the camera to connect. Keep in mind that the USB jumper must be connected between the GP10 and the camera and, because the pack sticks out from the side of the camera a bit, it cannot be used with the waterproof housing that comes standard with the GoPro, but Sena makes an optional waterproof housing that will accommodate the jumper. Once the GP10 is connected, pair the GoPro by pressing and holding the pairing button until the status announcement lets you know it is connected. The instructions that come with the GP10 can be confusing, however. There are two switches on the back of the GP10, one to power the GP10 and another to turn the microphone on the GoPro itself.
Sena GP10 GoPro Backpack in Action
It is highly recommended that you don’t use the solo GP10 when recording ambient sound from the GoPro’s microphone as the wind noise quickly overwhelms the voice. Sena reports that an update will correct this problem in the future. There does not seem to be much difference between the “Normal” mode and the “Ultra HD Voice Recording Quality” mode.
Overall, the Sena GP10 GoPro Backpack works well and is an excellent accessory for those who wish to record narrative on their video in real-time. Even with the GP10, you will still want to add a video editing application if you are serious about recording action video as the GP10 does not eliminate the need for video editing. One area where the GP10 could be very beneficial is the creation of instructional videos where narrating what you are doing is very helpful for a beginner. To learn more about the Sena GP10 GoPro Packpack and other adventure accessories, visit my YouTube channel today.
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What to Expect at a Beginner Rider Course
If you want to gain valuable experience, then you go to school. The same applies to motorcycle riding. When you sign up for the Beginner or Basic Rider courses that are available from multiple organizations throughout the U.S., you are taking a giant step forward. Here is what to expect:
Pre-Course Assignment
The assignment that you receive is dependent on the organization that you sign up with. Make sure you do this work, because you will be better prepared for what is to come in the class. You are welcome to take notes, write down questions to ask the instructor, and familiarize yourself with the terminology.
Necessary Items
When you have class, you should bring your student handbook, a notepad, pen, and some food items for snacks and lunch. These classes will last for most of the day, so be prepared for a full day of learning and moving.
You should wear jeans with ankle boots, a long-sleeved shirt or jacket, full fingered gloves, and a DOT-legal helmet. Some schools will have helmets to borrow if you don’t have one. Keep in mind that you won’t be able to attend the class if you don’t have the appropriate gear.
Also, regardless of the weather, the class will go on. Be prepared for cold mornings. Lightweight layers are best, because you can peel them off as you get hot. You should also wear a waterproof jacket, boots, and gloves, just in case it rains.What Happens In The Class
The class structure depends on statewide regulations and the course provider. However, most programs cover the same points. The courses are completed within two days, although you can sign up for more advanced courses later on.
First Day
On the first day of the Basic Rider Course, you don’t want to be late. Anyone who arrives late has a direct impact on how much information you receive—and you don’t want to miss anything. Before you turn on the engine, you need to sign some liability papers and other paperwork. You might be asked to introduce yourself and talk about what experience you have on a motorcycle. It’s fine if you have zero experience, because the class is designed for beginners. Relax and enjoy the chance to make new riding buddies.
The first half of the day talks about basic riding mechanics. This should be considered review if you did the pre-course assignment. If you jotted down any questions in your notes, this is the time you ask.
The first riding exercise doesn’t send you off down the road with no assistance. You review the handlebar controls once again. You mount, dismount, and turn the vehicle on and off. You then get a feel of the manually-operated clutch. Gradually, you get familiarized with the motion of the bike
The exercises thereafter include riding in a straight line, shifting gears, turning and cornering. The class is paced to allow for you to absorb this information is quickly or slowly as you need.
Second Day
The second day builds off the operations you picked up on the first day. Now, you can get more technical and polish those skills. The session begins with practice of slow speed maneuvering, emergency braking, swerving, and more cornering.
Once these drills are complete, you are assessed on your competency. The riding test will be the most stressful part of the day, because you need to successfully complete the exercises. If you don’t pass, you can retest for free; but if you fail twice, consider that riding a motorcycle might not be for you.
Other Things To Expect
There’s a reason you sign a liability form. You could tip over or crash during the hands-on section of the course. Don’t worry, though. This, too, is practice. Once you have fallen a few times, you get the hang of controlling the bike. You will receive advice for staying upright from a professional instead of having to figure it out yourself.
All in all, a Basic Rider Course is an excellent choice for all new riders who want to gain valuable experience before hitting the road. Though the course only lasts for two whole days, you learn much more than you probably expect. Go in with an open mind and leave riding your motorcycle. After that, the road is yours to master.
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Maximizing Performance: Upgrades for Your Sportbike
Riding a sportbike is a thrilling experience, but even the most advanced models can benefit from performance upgrades. Whether you’re a competitive racer or simply enjoy the thrill of high-speed riding, there are several modifications you can make to enhance the performance of your sportbike.
Upgrade Your Exhaust System: Unlock Hidden Power with an Exhaust System Upgrade
An exhaust system is an essential component of any engine, as it controls the flow of gases generated during combustion. The stock exhaust system on most sportbikes is designed to meet noise and emissions regulations, which can limit the performance of the engine.
However, aftermarket exhaust systems can offer improved airflow, allowing the engine to breathe more easily and increasing horsepower. An aftermarket exhaust system can be made from materials that are lighter and stronger than the stock system, reducing weight and improving performance. Additionally, aftermarket exhaust systems often feature larger-diameter pipes, which allow for greater airflow and improved power output.
If you’re looking for the greatest gains in performance, consider a full exhaust system replacement, including headers and muffler. The headers are the tubes that carry the exhaust gases from the engine to the muffler, and an aftermarket set can be designed with a larger diameter and improved shape to reduce backpressure and increase horsepower. The muffler is responsible for controlling noise levels, and an aftermarket muffler can offer improved sound and performance while still meeting noise regulations.
Upgrading your sportbike’s exhaust system can unlock hidden power and enhance its performance. While the stock exhaust system may meet noise and emissions regulations, it can limit the engine’s ability to breathe and generate power. An aftermarket exhaust system, including headers and muffler, can improve airflow and increase horsepower, allowing you to get the most out of your sportbike.
Enhance Your Air Intake: Breath Easy with an Air Intake Upgrade
The air intake system is responsible for delivering air to the engine, and it can play a crucial role in determining the performance of the engine. The stock air intake system on most sportbikes is designed to meet emissions regulations, which can restrict the airflow to the engine and reduce performance.
Upgrading to a high-flow air filter or a cold air intake can increase the amount of air entering the engine, providing a noticeable improvement in horsepower. High-flow air filters allow for a greater volume of air to enter the engine, providing a more oxygen-rich mixture that can improve combustion and increase horsepower. Cold air intakes work by relocating the air filter to a location outside the engine bay, where it can draw in cooler, denser air. This increased airflow can provide a noticeable improvement in horsepower.
Enhancing your air intake system can provide a noticeable improvement in horsepower and performance. The stock air intake system on most sportbikes is designed to meet emissions regulations, which can restrict airflow to the engine and reduce performance. Upgrading to a high-flow air filter or a cold air intake can increase the amount of air entering the engine, providing a more oxygen-rich mixture and a noticeable improvement in horsepower.
Fine-Tune Your Engine Management System: Re-Map Your Engine or Install a Power Commander
The engine management system is responsible for controlling the fuel and air mixture delivered to the engine, and it plays a critical role in determining the performance of the engine. The stock engine management system on most sportbikes is designed to meet emissions regulations, which can be restrictive and limit performance.
Installing a Power Commander or having the engine management system re-mapped can improve throttle response and power delivery, allowing the engine to operate more efficiently. A Power Commander is an aftermarket device that allows you to fine-tune the engine management system by adjusting the fuel and air mixture delivered to the engine. This can provide improved throttle response and increased power output, allowing you to get the most out of your sportbike.
Re-mapping the engine management system involves modifying the software that controls the fuel and air mixture delivered to the engine. This can provide improved throttle response and increased power output, allowing the engine to operate more efficiently.
Fine-tuning your engine management system can provide noticeable improvements in throttle response and power delivery. The stock engine management system on most sportbikes is designed to meet emissions regulations, which can be restrictive and limit performance. Installing a Power Commander or having the engine management system re-mapped can provide improved throttle response and increased power output, allowing you to get the most out of your sportbike.
Get the Ultimate Ride with a Suspension Upgrade: Suspension Upgrade
The suspension on a sportbike is one of the most important components in determining handling and stability. The stock suspension components on most sportbikes are designed to provide a balance between comfort and performance, but they may not meet the demands of all riders.
Upgrading to aftermarket suspension components, such as forks, shocks, and springs, can offer improved handling and a more comfortable ride. Suspension upgrades can also allow riders to fine-tune the suspension settings to suit their individual riding style and track conditions. High-performance suspension components can offer improved responsiveness and stability, allowing you to get the most out of your sportbike.
Forks and shocks are two of the most important suspension components, and upgrading them can offer a noticeable improvement in handling and stability. Upgraded forks can provide improved responsiveness, allowing you to negotiate turns with greater ease. Upgraded shocks can provide improved damping, allowing the rear tire to remain in contact with the road, even under hard acceleration or braking.
A suspension upgrade can provide a noticeable improvement in handling and stability, as well as a more comfortable ride. The stock suspension components on most sportbikes are designed to provide a balance between comfort and performance, but they may not meet the demands of all riders. Upgrading to aftermarket suspension components, such as forks, shocks, and springs, can allow riders to fine-tune the suspension settings to suit their individual riding style and track conditions.
Stop on a Dime with a Brake Upgrade: Brake Upgrade
Braking performance is critical for riders who like to push the limits of their sportbike’s performance. The stock brake components on most sportbikes are designed to provide a balance between performance and affordability, but they may not meet the demands of all riders.
Upgrading to high-performance brake pads and larger rotors can provide a noticeable improvement in braking performance, helping riders feel more confident on the track or road. High-performance brake pads can offer improved bite and modulation, allowing you to stop quickly and smoothly. Larger rotors can provide improved heat dissipation and stopping power, allowing you to slow down faster and with greater confidence.
Upgrading your brake components can provide a noticeable improvement in braking performance, helping riders feel more confident on the track or road. The stock brake components on most sportbikes are designed to provide a balance between performance and affordability, but they may not meet the demands of all riders. Upgrading to high-performance brake pads and larger rotors can provide improved bite and modulation, as well as increased stopping power, allowing you to stop quickly and confidently.
Conclusion
In conclusion, upgrading your sportbike can significantly enhance its performance and make it even more enjoyable to ride. These modifications can improve power delivery, handling, braking, and overall ride quality. However, it’s important to choose upgrades that are compatible with your bike and to have them installed by a professional to ensure optimal performance and safety. Whether you’re looking for a competitive edge or simply want to improve your riding experience, there are many options available for maximizing the performance of your sportbike.
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Viking Cycle – Warlock Textile Motorcycle Jacket Review
Finding a Great Entry-Level Cycle Jacket - Viking Warlock Jacket Review
When critiquing motorcycle jackets, we have a tendency to judge them by the standards and needs of long-term, experienced cyclists. The unfortunate truth is that, for those just getting into motorcycling, these criteria may be a good bit different. For one thing, beginners will tend to spend somewhat less time on their bikes as they’re still getting a feel for them, and they’re less likely to be out there in the more extreme temperatures of high summer and mid-winter.
This means that some forgiveness in fitting and materials is called for when looking at a prospective first motorcycle jacket. In the case of the VikingCycle’s Warlock jacket, this may work out pretty well.
To purchase, click here:
http://shrsl.com/1bl7e
Use Coupon Code Runthacity to receive 12% off your order!
The Look Of The Warlock Jacket
Well, let’s be honest with ourselves, we’re always going to demand that our jacket look really cool. It won’t do to look unstylish on our bikes, no matter if we’re a novice or a years-experienced rider. If the jacket doesn’t look good, nothing else matters. Maybe this isn’t the most prioritized way to think of things, but that’s just how it is.
While not the classic cruiser style so iconic in pop culture, this jacket does have a very modern classic vibe to it. It achieves a contemporary, unassuming but stylish look that blends many of the safety and comfort features of sport/street jackets, with the gentle form hugging and sleek nature that makes those cruiser jackets so beloved in the first place.
Moving forward, this even blend of these two styles will probably be somewhat timeless, which gives this jacket a unique future proof nature.
Comfort in a motorcycle jacket is a delicate balance. You don’t want to feel claustrophobic in the jacket, but at the same time, something too loose would have obvious problems. Similarly, you don’t want it to feel too bulky or heavy, but you want to feel like you’ve got something on. Finally, you want this balanced comfort to also provide good wind-cutting power, especially when it’s chilly out. Remember, the faster you go, the colder that air is going to be.
This jacket checks all but one of these boxes rather nicely. I felt like I had a solid jacket on, but I never felt claustrophobic, encumbered nor weighed down by it. The adjustable sleeves and collar meant that I didn’t feel like my circulation was cut off, but it still sealed me up well enough against the elements.
Unfortunately, the wind-cutting power of this jacket isn’t phenomenal, even with the liner in. It’s far from the worst, but in particularly chilly weather, the wind is still going to bite right into you with this jacket.
Motorcycle Jacket Safety
Safety is of course a big concern, especially for a beginner. This jacket manages to be pretty well-padded and abrasion-resistant, without feeling cumbersome. Granted, it’s not as fortified as a racing jacket, but I felt very safe in this jacket, especially thanks to the waist zipper that fastens to pants to provide a unified layer of protection.
It definitely passes my standards for safety, no question there.
VikingCycle’s Signature Rain Gear Fabric is a 100% 600D Polyester coated by PU (polyurethane). The 600D Polyester coated by PU, is also wind and water resistant so it will provide great protection against cold wind and rain and it will not sag and creates less wrinkle overtime. The fabric is light weight but highly resilient against abrasions to provide more resistance between the body and the road for your protection, and also stands against wear and tear for product durability.
Bells and Whistles
Finally, we come to the additional accoutrements this jacket offers. It’s not the most elaborate design out there, but it’s not without its charms.
- Large zipper tabs make it easy to operate the zippers with gloves on – something that can be exquisitely frustrating.
- Plenty of inside pockets for your phone, your wallet, etc. where they’re protected from the elements and impacts.
- Removable liner makes this jacket comfortable for warm and cool riding.
Warlock Jacket Textile Motorcycle Jacket Overview
Pros and Cons
Pros
- This is an affordable jacket, especially for the quality, which is a major deciding factor for the beginner motorcyclist.
- The inside pockets are a nice touch.
- The neutral, non-aggressive style is timeless, contemporary and pairs with any style of bike.
- The zippers are phenomenal.
Cons
- Removable liner takes most of the inner pockets with it, and doesn’t cut wind well.
- Velcro is used in stead of button clasps – this is a noisy material that wears out and accumulates “fuzz”.
- There are synthetic materials in the cuffs that may be less durable.
Warranty Information
VikingCycle takes the highest pride to provide the best motorcycle gear craftsmanship and material in the world. We always stand behind all our product quality. If you experience any manufacturing defects on any of our items, please let us know and return it for a replacement within 1 year of purchase.
This warranty does not cover any item damage due to normal wear and tear or improper care. Normal wear and tear is unavoidable and it is a sign that the product has been worn, such as small scratches or color change.
To claim any manufacturing defect warranty and to get your replacement as soon as possible, please let us know by emailing us at info@vikingcycle.com with your order number and a photo of the product defect.
Conclusion
This jacket’s not perfect, but then, is anything ever truly perfect? As a seasoned rider, I’d personally purchase this jacket. It is affordable, comfortable and a stylish first jacket for a beginner? I’d definitely be happy recommending the Warlock jacket.To purchase, click here:
http://shrsl.com/1bl7e
Use Coupon Code Runthacity to receive 12% off your order!To learn more about choosing the ideal motorcycle jacket for your needs, subscribe to my YouTube channel today!
