Great Britain is experiencing a considerable traffic congestion problem. The Department for Transport published a bulletin on various road statistics. The numbers show that the problem is not only currently present, but it is increasing at a rather exponential rate. Between the years of 2005 and 2006, it is estimated that the level of traffic increased by 7 billion vehicle kilometers to 506 billion vehicle kilometers. Of this vehicle traffic, car traffic accounted for 402.4 billion vehicle kilometers, or 79%.
Some areas in the UK are imposing a congestion charge on motorists who drive within certain zones during certain times. This charge was created to encourage motorists to think twice before taking their vehicles into typically congested areas, such as central London, thus encouraging them to find alternative forms of transportation. If the motorists elect to continue traveling in or through these zones, they will be subject to a daily charge, which they can pay daily, monthly annually. The charge is incurred between 7am and 6pm, Monday through Friday with the exception of public holidays.
All vehicles driving in or through the charge zone must pay. This behavior is governed by the implementation of cameras that allow the UK government to record the plates of drivers within the zone. Some vehicles do enjoy an exemption from the charge, though. Taxis, licensed minicabs, emergency service vehicles, blue/orange badge holders (disabled drivers) and alternative energy vehicles are not subject to the charge. There are also some groups of vehicles that are entitled to a discount such as breakdown services, residents and people who reside on the border of the zone.
Motorcycles, motorbikes with sidecars, mopeds and bicycles are exempt from the congestion charge. It is not necessary to register them; however, motorcycles that are more than one meter in width or more than two meters in length do not fit into the exempt class and are therefore subject to the charge. This leads to an interesting consideration. Should more people get their CBT in response to this zone charge? Or, even more compelling, will this zone charge (particularly as it is being extended) result on more people obtaining their CBTs and will there be more motorcycles on the road?
A CBT, or compulsory basic training, is what most new motorcycle riders need first. The CBT allows new riders to ride a legal moped, motorcycle or a scooter as a learner. For some people, remaining as a learner is fine for them, for others, they choose to pursue a full license test to obtain a full license that has a 2 year power restriction.
Will we see more people hopping on "hogs" to get from point A to point B, particularly if they must travel through a congestion charge zone? Perhaps, but the larger questions begs, should more people pursue their CBTs? Certainly a motorcycle reduces traffic congestion and has fewer emissions, meaning that they are more environmentally friendly that their four wheeled counterparts. But there are some tremendous safety issues and a certain danger stigma attached to motorcycles. Only time will tell.
Article Source: http://www.ArticleStreet.com/
Friday, April 24, 2009
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Ideas For Custom Painted Motorcycle Helmets
Love your bike? Spend a great deal of money on a custom motorcycle paint job? Looks amazing doesn't it? Then why not go for a helmet that makes the same statement. Here are some great ideas for custom painted motorcycle helmets.
The use of quality paints and clear coats is essential to getting a quality paint job. Settle for nothing less. Kolor is one paint that's great and of course there are others.
If you don't have your own design idea most air brushers will help you with designs. In fact they are usually full of plenty of great ideas that will get you on the right track. Try to keep lines crisp and clean. It always makes your design stand out and get noticed.
1. SkullsSkull designs look fabulous on helmet and they can be done in a variety of different styles which elicit different feelings. And you can have one or many skulls on the helmet.
2. FlamesFlames look fabulous and they look even better if you have flames on your bike. There's something about flames that's just seems to work great with speed themes.
3. FantasyFantasy helmets can be a variety of different designs from ultra feminine to very masculine. You can have a great deal of fun with this theme and the only thing that limits you is your imagination.
4. Race GraphicsRace designs are real styling. Motocross logos, Indy logos or a host of other related race designs.
5. Baseball HelmetsHow about your favorite all star team on your helmet? You love your baseball team why not show the world when you are riding your bike down the road.
6. Catcher's MaskThe catcher's mask makes a great motorcycle helmet. There is something about the look. Pick your team and have it done.
7. Team HelmetsYou can have any of your favorite team's logos or colors custom painted on your helmet. You could have a lot of fun with this creating something very special.
8. Aarron KauffmanHow about a driver's helmet? There are some great choices and the color are fabulous. Aarron not for you? How about Chad Barr or Andrew Peters?
When looking for a site that does custom airbrushing it's important that you ensure they use only Ditzler/PPG epoxy primers and solid clears. Check for samples and ensure the materials used will create a superior finish that's going to provide you with years of "show off" power.
You should also ask to see work of the air brusher. May paint this way but it's an elite group that has true artistic talent and you might as well get the most you can for your money. Why not get the best of the best. After all your helmet is a personal thing and just like your bike makes a statement about you, so does your helmet.
Be sure to get the cost upfront. It can vary a great deal from one painter to the other and from one paint design to another so you will want to know up front what your cost will be. Uniqueness comes with a price but it's worth every penny.
You are your own person and you love to express your individuality. That's just what your motorcycle does for you. And that's why custom painted motorcycle helmets are a great way to be unique and make your statement.
Author : Russell
http://www.articleclick.com/Article/Ideas-For-Custom-Painted-Motorcycle-Helmets/948095
The use of quality paints and clear coats is essential to getting a quality paint job. Settle for nothing less. Kolor is one paint that's great and of course there are others.
If you don't have your own design idea most air brushers will help you with designs. In fact they are usually full of plenty of great ideas that will get you on the right track. Try to keep lines crisp and clean. It always makes your design stand out and get noticed.
1. SkullsSkull designs look fabulous on helmet and they can be done in a variety of different styles which elicit different feelings. And you can have one or many skulls on the helmet.
2. FlamesFlames look fabulous and they look even better if you have flames on your bike. There's something about flames that's just seems to work great with speed themes.
3. FantasyFantasy helmets can be a variety of different designs from ultra feminine to very masculine. You can have a great deal of fun with this theme and the only thing that limits you is your imagination.
4. Race GraphicsRace designs are real styling. Motocross logos, Indy logos or a host of other related race designs.
5. Baseball HelmetsHow about your favorite all star team on your helmet? You love your baseball team why not show the world when you are riding your bike down the road.
6. Catcher's MaskThe catcher's mask makes a great motorcycle helmet. There is something about the look. Pick your team and have it done.
7. Team HelmetsYou can have any of your favorite team's logos or colors custom painted on your helmet. You could have a lot of fun with this creating something very special.
8. Aarron KauffmanHow about a driver's helmet? There are some great choices and the color are fabulous. Aarron not for you? How about Chad Barr or Andrew Peters?
When looking for a site that does custom airbrushing it's important that you ensure they use only Ditzler/PPG epoxy primers and solid clears. Check for samples and ensure the materials used will create a superior finish that's going to provide you with years of "show off" power.
You should also ask to see work of the air brusher. May paint this way but it's an elite group that has true artistic talent and you might as well get the most you can for your money. Why not get the best of the best. After all your helmet is a personal thing and just like your bike makes a statement about you, so does your helmet.
Be sure to get the cost upfront. It can vary a great deal from one painter to the other and from one paint design to another so you will want to know up front what your cost will be. Uniqueness comes with a price but it's worth every penny.
You are your own person and you love to express your individuality. That's just what your motorcycle does for you. And that's why custom painted motorcycle helmets are a great way to be unique and make your statement.
Author : Russell
http://www.articleclick.com/Article/Ideas-For-Custom-Painted-Motorcycle-Helmets/948095
Closeout Motorcycle Helmets
Planning to jump on your bike and take a road trip looking for the best prices on closeout motorcycle helmets and gear. Well although that sounds like plenty of fun why not jump on your keyboard and search online. So who offers closeout prices?
1. AGV Legendary HelmetsAGV has a reputation that goes back 60 years. Today they continue to provide quality helmets that are extremely safe and very well designed. AGV helped riders make motorcycle history and they carry those traditions on. In fact Valentino Rossi was wearing an AGV helmet when he won world champs.
2. Bell HelmetsBell has been producing quality helmets since back in 1954. Today those traditions carry on with expanded helmet lines that utilize the knowledge of the past and the technology of today.
3. Caberg HelmetsCaberg is now available in the US. The quite flip top makes this helmet a breeze to turn into an open face helmet for those hot days. It has been wind tunnel tested and gets a great rating.
4. Icon HelmetsThis helmet is strictly designed with the rider's safety in mind. The front of these helmets offer venture super vent systems for the maximum air flow. The shell is made of fiberglass and it is lined with a styrene liner for extra strength.
5. M2R HelmetsThese are a high quality helmet that's very unique and affordable. They are committed to ensuring their helmets fit well and provide the ultimate in protection.
6. Rodia HelmetsRodia came to be back in 1994 with a full line of helmets constructed from both molded polycarbonates and laminated fiberglass.
7. Schuberth HelmetsThese are all about German engineering and they've recently had some redesigning going on. These well built helmets are very affordable and they provide excellent safety features.
8. ShoeiHas been a name you can trust for decades and today it continues to be a leader in the industry. For more than 40 years it has been building top of the line helmets with their focus on quality and safety.
These are just eight of the motorcycle helmet manufactures. Eight of the best I might add, but there are certainly plenty of other choices. The key to closeout shopping is to shop around.
Whether you choose to jump in your car and go hunting for closeouts or grab your keyboard and put your fingers to work, that's up to you. What is important is that you recognize a great deal and a great price when you see it. Ask yourself these questions to help you buy smart.
1. Have I compared prices on the same item with at least 10 different sites?2. Is this last years or this year's model? You can save big on last years models.3. What is the warranty offered on the helmet and what are the requirements to filing a warranty claim?4. What sizes are available?5. What helmet shapes can you choose from? It's important to be able to choose a shape that works with your head shape.6. What features are offered?7. Is it DOT approved?8. How much is shipping?
Closeout motorcycle helmets and gear are a great way to save a lot of money, and what a great way to be able to buy something a little more high end then your regular budget would allow. So are you ready to go shopping?
Author : Russell
http://www.articleclick.com/Article/Closeout-Motorcycle-Helmets/948094
1. AGV Legendary HelmetsAGV has a reputation that goes back 60 years. Today they continue to provide quality helmets that are extremely safe and very well designed. AGV helped riders make motorcycle history and they carry those traditions on. In fact Valentino Rossi was wearing an AGV helmet when he won world champs.
2. Bell HelmetsBell has been producing quality helmets since back in 1954. Today those traditions carry on with expanded helmet lines that utilize the knowledge of the past and the technology of today.
3. Caberg HelmetsCaberg is now available in the US. The quite flip top makes this helmet a breeze to turn into an open face helmet for those hot days. It has been wind tunnel tested and gets a great rating.
4. Icon HelmetsThis helmet is strictly designed with the rider's safety in mind. The front of these helmets offer venture super vent systems for the maximum air flow. The shell is made of fiberglass and it is lined with a styrene liner for extra strength.
5. M2R HelmetsThese are a high quality helmet that's very unique and affordable. They are committed to ensuring their helmets fit well and provide the ultimate in protection.
6. Rodia HelmetsRodia came to be back in 1994 with a full line of helmets constructed from both molded polycarbonates and laminated fiberglass.
7. Schuberth HelmetsThese are all about German engineering and they've recently had some redesigning going on. These well built helmets are very affordable and they provide excellent safety features.
8. ShoeiHas been a name you can trust for decades and today it continues to be a leader in the industry. For more than 40 years it has been building top of the line helmets with their focus on quality and safety.
These are just eight of the motorcycle helmet manufactures. Eight of the best I might add, but there are certainly plenty of other choices. The key to closeout shopping is to shop around.
Whether you choose to jump in your car and go hunting for closeouts or grab your keyboard and put your fingers to work, that's up to you. What is important is that you recognize a great deal and a great price when you see it. Ask yourself these questions to help you buy smart.
1. Have I compared prices on the same item with at least 10 different sites?2. Is this last years or this year's model? You can save big on last years models.3. What is the warranty offered on the helmet and what are the requirements to filing a warranty claim?4. What sizes are available?5. What helmet shapes can you choose from? It's important to be able to choose a shape that works with your head shape.6. What features are offered?7. Is it DOT approved?8. How much is shipping?
Closeout motorcycle helmets and gear are a great way to save a lot of money, and what a great way to be able to buy something a little more high end then your regular budget would allow. So are you ready to go shopping?
Author : Russell
http://www.articleclick.com/Article/Closeout-Motorcycle-Helmets/948094
Roketa Scooters - Advantages and Disadvantages
The market today for many products is invaded with Chinese items. When we talk about scooters, you should know that half of the products you find anywhere are made in China. They are easily recognizable because of their lower prices when compared to other models, produced in America, Europe or Japan.
When we talk about quality, Chinese products do not enjoy a very good reputation, a fact that also affects the Roketa scooters that you can find on the market. There are many consumers that say that they have no reasons to complain about the Chinese scooters they have already bought, while other reviews that are posted online are not so appreciative. A good explanation would be that most of the customers that are satisfied with a product, usually do not jump on writing reviews online, as being too busy to enjoy the product as is.
What is bad?
One of the main disadvantages that users say that Roketa scooters have is the fact that the product includes too many defective or fragile parts that break after short usage. Also, other people say that the customer support is far from being reliable. Another comment on Roketa scooters refers to the fact that the item had to be started several times in order to warm up and start working, and the speed cable was very weak and it broke after just one month.
Customer service is, by far, one of things that buyers do not enjoy using when it comes to Roketa scooters. One reviewer says that the model they bought had a leak and it was discovered that the leak was coming from the gasket cover which was improperly installed. They received a new part, but they had to pay another $200 extra for the installment.
When parts of your scooter just fall off during usage, you cannot be a happy customer. And when the only answer you receive from the customer support is that you should check the nuts and bolts every time you go out for a ride with your new scooter, then you become an angry customer. Such angry customers already put together websites where they tell other people to avoid such products.
A matter of safety
To make things just, we should consider the reasons behind these complaints. First, you should know that there are far more Chinese scooters on the market than European or American models. This means that the more products are sold, the more complaints appear. Second, these products are sold by suppliers and distributors, which are not the same thing with the company that makes the Roketa scooters. When something bad happens, the buyer takes to issue to the company that sold the product, and they will receive customer support from that company only. If these companies are not as reliable as they claim, misunderstandings appear.
The best advice would be to buy your Roketa scooter from a dealer that already has an established reputation. Instead of just hunting for the lower price, try to keep this aspect in mind.
Author : Balva
http://www.articleclick.com/Article/Roketa-Scooters-Advantages-and-Disadvantages/1029052
When we talk about quality, Chinese products do not enjoy a very good reputation, a fact that also affects the Roketa scooters that you can find on the market. There are many consumers that say that they have no reasons to complain about the Chinese scooters they have already bought, while other reviews that are posted online are not so appreciative. A good explanation would be that most of the customers that are satisfied with a product, usually do not jump on writing reviews online, as being too busy to enjoy the product as is.
What is bad?
One of the main disadvantages that users say that Roketa scooters have is the fact that the product includes too many defective or fragile parts that break after short usage. Also, other people say that the customer support is far from being reliable. Another comment on Roketa scooters refers to the fact that the item had to be started several times in order to warm up and start working, and the speed cable was very weak and it broke after just one month.
Customer service is, by far, one of things that buyers do not enjoy using when it comes to Roketa scooters. One reviewer says that the model they bought had a leak and it was discovered that the leak was coming from the gasket cover which was improperly installed. They received a new part, but they had to pay another $200 extra for the installment.
When parts of your scooter just fall off during usage, you cannot be a happy customer. And when the only answer you receive from the customer support is that you should check the nuts and bolts every time you go out for a ride with your new scooter, then you become an angry customer. Such angry customers already put together websites where they tell other people to avoid such products.
A matter of safety
To make things just, we should consider the reasons behind these complaints. First, you should know that there are far more Chinese scooters on the market than European or American models. This means that the more products are sold, the more complaints appear. Second, these products are sold by suppliers and distributors, which are not the same thing with the company that makes the Roketa scooters. When something bad happens, the buyer takes to issue to the company that sold the product, and they will receive customer support from that company only. If these companies are not as reliable as they claim, misunderstandings appear.
The best advice would be to buy your Roketa scooter from a dealer that already has an established reputation. Instead of just hunting for the lower price, try to keep this aspect in mind.
Author : Balva
http://www.articleclick.com/Article/Roketa-Scooters-Advantages-and-Disadvantages/1029052
Oxtar Motorcycle Boots
Oxtar offers some of the best boots and best prices on the market. You get quality and comfort that's as good as what Sidi or Alpinestars offers and for a much better price. Oxtar Motorcycle Boots will help keep you safe.
Wearing quality gear can make you a better rider. You'll feel more confident knowing you are dressed for any occasion and this confidence will increase your competence in riding and help you focus more.
Now we all want to wear protective gear to keep us save should that dreaded accident or wipe out occur but at the same time you certainly don't want to restrict your movement.
Interestingly the new active protection gear actually helps you actually get an enhanced feel when riding. So whether it's your gloves or your boots the active protection can be a real advantage.
Boots designed for motorcycle riding have a very high safety rating built into them. Sadly they are the last item purchased and yet ankle, foot, and lower leg injuries are the number one injury causing permanent disability.
A good boot will keep you better in tune with your foot pegs and this let's you know what the rest of your bike is responding. Not all boots are equal. If you are going to buy a pair then make sure you spend the money and get a quality pair that will protect properly. Oxtar is one of those boots.
The patented Torsion Control System helps to reduce the amount of ankle flex from side to side as well as front to back. It provides the maximum support to ensure no bones are broken and to avoid abrasion.
Choose from the TCS Evo Ti or the TCS Sport which also has the Metatarsal Control System in the forefoot preventing the boot sole from flexing.
On the MCS the sole is very sturdy and has hardly any flex in the foot bed providing a sturdy base on the pegs. Perhaps not that important on the street but it is very important on the race track. The biggest draw back is these boots are not very comfortable to walk in.
The TCS boots are really comfortable with the inner sole leather lined and the rest of the boot lined in the Oxtar Air Tech lining a soft foam padding.
The air scoops found on each boot just below the ankle will keep your feet breathable fresh and they vents are covered with a protective stainless steel mesh. The air circulation is a must.
The front of the boot has a zipper system which means convenient on and off. Because it has a short zipper the boot will fit almost any calf size a real benefit. The top has a Velcro closure to keep things nice and tight and again allows for adjustment of almost any size.
Lorica covers the outside of the boot. This is a synthetic leather that is more abrasion resistant than even leather. The style and boot design is upbeat and trendy so not only do you get the best of the best when it comes to protectiveness you also get a nice looking boot.
Oxtar motorcycle boots are some of the best on the market. Don't you deserve the best?
Author : Russell
http://www.articleclick.com/Article/Oxtar-Motorcycle-Boots/948164
Wearing quality gear can make you a better rider. You'll feel more confident knowing you are dressed for any occasion and this confidence will increase your competence in riding and help you focus more.
Now we all want to wear protective gear to keep us save should that dreaded accident or wipe out occur but at the same time you certainly don't want to restrict your movement.
Interestingly the new active protection gear actually helps you actually get an enhanced feel when riding. So whether it's your gloves or your boots the active protection can be a real advantage.
Boots designed for motorcycle riding have a very high safety rating built into them. Sadly they are the last item purchased and yet ankle, foot, and lower leg injuries are the number one injury causing permanent disability.
A good boot will keep you better in tune with your foot pegs and this let's you know what the rest of your bike is responding. Not all boots are equal. If you are going to buy a pair then make sure you spend the money and get a quality pair that will protect properly. Oxtar is one of those boots.
The patented Torsion Control System helps to reduce the amount of ankle flex from side to side as well as front to back. It provides the maximum support to ensure no bones are broken and to avoid abrasion.
Choose from the TCS Evo Ti or the TCS Sport which also has the Metatarsal Control System in the forefoot preventing the boot sole from flexing.
On the MCS the sole is very sturdy and has hardly any flex in the foot bed providing a sturdy base on the pegs. Perhaps not that important on the street but it is very important on the race track. The biggest draw back is these boots are not very comfortable to walk in.
The TCS boots are really comfortable with the inner sole leather lined and the rest of the boot lined in the Oxtar Air Tech lining a soft foam padding.
The air scoops found on each boot just below the ankle will keep your feet breathable fresh and they vents are covered with a protective stainless steel mesh. The air circulation is a must.
The front of the boot has a zipper system which means convenient on and off. Because it has a short zipper the boot will fit almost any calf size a real benefit. The top has a Velcro closure to keep things nice and tight and again allows for adjustment of almost any size.
Lorica covers the outside of the boot. This is a synthetic leather that is more abrasion resistant than even leather. The style and boot design is upbeat and trendy so not only do you get the best of the best when it comes to protectiveness you also get a nice looking boot.
Oxtar motorcycle boots are some of the best on the market. Don't you deserve the best?
Author : Russell
http://www.articleclick.com/Article/Oxtar-Motorcycle-Boots/948164
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)