Whether you will be making your inaugural trip to the 66th Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in Sturgis, SD on Aug. 7th 13th or you are a long time veteran of the event, this article will be a useful document providing a wealth of information including a brief history of the event, lodging information, schedule of events and safety tips and travel tips.

The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally was organized by Clarence Pappy Hoel and members of the Jackpine Gypsies Motorcycle Club. The first ever Sturgis Rally was held on Aug. 14, 1938 featuring the Black Hills Classic, an event which featured 9 participants and a few spectators. It was determined that the event would be held annually on the first week after the first full weekend in August to avoid conflicts with other nearby events. By 1961 it had expanded to include Hill Climb and Motocross races and in 1963 the event expanded to three days. The Sturgis rally continued to grow in leaps and bounds and by 1975 it included a seven day event and by the year 2000 the event was attracting over half a million visitors annually with the 2000 rally attracting in excess of 600,000 visitors.

The small town of Sturgis, SD has a population of less than 7,000 so it is understandable that an event attracting over half a million travelers would create logistical problems with lodging concerns. If you are planning to attend, it is wise to make reservations for accommodations well in advance of your trip to ensure you can secure a room close to the site.

Camping is a popular option for those attending the rally. Nearby campgrounds include the following:

* Big Rig RV Park: – features wireless Internet access and spacious lots of 60 and 100 close to the rally site.

* Bulldog Campground: features RV camping as well as cabins which accommodate 2-8 guests. This campground is located five miles from Sturgis and features nightly entertainment and happy hour as well as an onsite restaurant.

* Creekside Campground: located 4 miles from Sturgis, this campground features RV camping, tent camping as well as cabins. Highlights of the campground include an onsite store selling food and beverages and easy highway access.

* Glencoe Camp Resort: has been catering to Sturgis participants for over 20 years. This campground has over 160 acres of camping with ample shade. In 2006 they will unveil a 34 acre outdoor amphitheater which will feature live music all week long. A 24 hour restaurant is also onsite for the convenience of campers.

* Hog Heaven Campground: – with over 150 acres of camping, this campground situated in the Black Hills is an ideal location for Sturgis participants. The campground is open from July 31st through Aug. 13th this year and will host live bands providing entertainment for guests.

* Katmandu Campground: – features 250 RV sites, cabins and 50 acres of camping. Located just two miles from Sturgis, this location is convenient for participants. Highlighted amenities include laundry facilities and wireless Internet access.

* Sturgis View Campground: – located only 1.5 miles from downtown Sturgis. This campground is famous for its spectacular views. Other highlights include RV camping, cabins and ample acreage for tent camping.

A complete event schedule for this years event can be found at the following web address: http://www.sturgismotorcyclerally.com/06Oeventschedule.pdf. This website provides the time, event name and location for each of the scheduled events. One way to fuel up for the extensive list of planned events is to partake in the daily pancake breakfast sponsored by the Marine Corps JROTC. They can be found daily serving breakfast from 6:00 am until 11:00 am in the Sturgis Brown High School. Most days also feature alternate breakfast events by other clubs, including Alcoholics Anonymous who also hosts meetings throughout the event, ensuring a variety of dining options for the most Additional resources important meal of the day.

Once breakfast is out of the way, participants are ready to enjoy the rest of the festivities. Live music is one of the undeniable highlights of the event. Although there are a variety of talented musicians scheduled to perform at this years event, the Buffalo Chip Campground has a lineup of headline performers scheduled for 2006 including Lynyrd Skynyrd, Kid Rock, Alice in Chains and David Lee Roth.

There are also plenty of motorcycle related events to keep participants occupied. Boss Hoss demo rides are featured throughout the event. Burnout competitions are also popular with spectators and are offered a few times during the tournament at the Full Throttle Saloon. Another highlight is the Discovery Channels Biker Build Off featuring Detroit Bros. vs. Jason Kangas. In addition, there are demos and exhibits throughout the day each day of the event and shows featuring custom bikes from around the country. There are also going to be many vendors on hand offering everything from motorcycle related merchandise to tattoos as well as food and beverages.

An unfortunate aspect of Sturgis is the frequent occurrence of the disappearance of motorcycles during the event. Estimates indicate approximately $250,000 worth of motorcycles are stolen each year during the course of the event. Motorcycles on the higher end of the price spectrum as well as custom bikes and show models are those most likely to be stolen, but all participants should take precautions to avoid becoming a victim. Care should be taken to park in well lit, high traffic locations as opposed to dark areas with few passersby. Additionally, participants should avoid leaving valuables such as cameras, leathers and souvenirs on their bike. Those who will be attending the event should also invest in a high quality lock to secure their bike. Even higher quality locks are not fool-proof to experienced thieves but they are a definite deterrent. Lower quality locks are not considered adequate protection because they can easily be broken or cut.

Participants who will be traveling long distances to the event on their motorcycle should also be aware of safety issues while traveling. Even those experienced with long distance rides should take safety precautions to ensure a smooth trip. One precaution is to create a copy of your detailed itinerary to leave in the possession of a friend or relative who will not be traveling with you. Travelers are also warned against traveling alone. Whenever possible, travelers should have at least one other rider accompany them on their trip. Taking frequent stops to rest and retiring for the night before fatigue sets in is also advisable.

Gas motor scooters are often regarded as toys, innocent and inexpensive entertaining. However it’s just that form of believing that may get a gasoline scooter driver into deep difficulties. First and foremost scooters are motor motor vehicles just like bikes and cars. They share the street with other automobiles and trucks and therefore are matter to related legislation and polices. And Even though They're an item of motivation For numerous they may be harmful for your unexperienced or unprepared.

For a typical rule gas run scooters are controlled by condition regulations as both motorcycles or mopeds and they are subject to very similar laws as these other motor autos. By being notify and making use of caution a lot of incidents is often averted. Most mishaps crop up because of carelessness. By being attentive to what is going on all-around you and what other drivers are accomplishing you may truly feel relatively Secure out within the freeway.

There's two things that result in nearly all of accidents, rushing and following far too carefully into the motor vehicle in advance. Driving securely is centered on giving other motorists sufficient response time. If One more driver wants to change into your lane immediately before you it may trigger you to get rid of Handle In case you are rushing and haven’t ample the perfect time to react. Without more than enough the perfect time to slow down this maneuver by the opposite driver may well call for you to move into One more lane to stay away from him. This could impact other motorists in other lanes that's the beginning of many incidents.

Another major blunder a large number of gas scooter motorists make is subsequent also closely. When the individual in advance of you abruptly slams to the brakes you require enough time to slow down easily. Ramming to the back of somebody’s car is just not what you want to perform, particularly when you might be driving a small scooter without any protection all over you. By next the speed boundaries and supplying oneself adequate area to decelerate if some thing unforeseen should really take place before you most incidents is often prevented.

The 3rd problem arises when gas driven Electric Scooter For Kids scooters are procured to be used by children and young people who never even have a legitimate driver’s license. Drivers with licenses will not be any safer around the road than unlicensed drivers, but at least they have experienced some coaching and experience at the rear of the wheel of an auto. Small children and teenagers with none coaching might be a collision ready to occur With regards to motor scooters. With none practical experience or coaching small children and young adolescents can promptly find them selves in positions that expert drivers Ordinarily wouldn't.

Youngsters happen to be recognised to throw warning in to the wind, darting out and in of traffic with out a clue regarding the risks. On gasoline scooters which are so tiny they are able to’t be witnessed properly by other drivers, and without A great deal driving encounter or training, Young ones will pose a hazard to both themselves and one other motorists they are available in contact with.

Moms and dads ought to be strongly cautioned to possess their little ones acquire the appropriate volume of training on their gas power scooters just before They can be allowed onto the busy town streets. Discover a deserted highway and put them by way of a instruction session. The existence a guardian will save may very well be his individual kids’s. Only after a dad or mum feels comfy along with his boy or girl’s driving capabilities ought to they allow the child on to the busier streets. By ensuring that that our kids know the security regulations from the street we've been lowering their probabilities of remaining linked to a significant accident. In advance of we can legally travel an automobile to the freeway we have to all go certain exams. Why should or not it's any distinctive for younger Youngsters?

Gas or electric powered scooters are wonderful very little automobiles which might be exciting to push, affordable to buy and are really helpful for traveling limited distances within the neighborhood to conduct errands. They sometimes have greater storage place than a bike and are certainly reasonably priced to function. There are several good reasons for proudly owning a gas scooter, but inside the palms of your untrained and inexperienced they are often fatal.

The ATV, go carts, Grime bikes and mini bikes are other automobiles that will often be owned and operated by youthful motorists. Nonetheless they are usually not witnessed on the town streets as scooters are. Go karts are typically driven on tracks precisely suitable for the go cart. Along with the mini bike, Grime bicycle or ATVs are usually pushed off street. These other autos keep away from many of the dangers that scooter motorists will have to experience, particularly visitors on the chaotic highway.

Gasoline scooters are quite preferred today, In particular Amongst the youthful sector who're too young to push automobiles nevertheless. Without the need of proper teaching for these Young ones it opens the door to achievable severe accidents. As the around the globe popularity of fuel scooters grows we need to make sure that folks’s consciousness of driving and security rules keeps pace, Specially Amongst the Young children which have no earlier drivers practical experience.

Young children often consider gas scooters as toys, not as probably unsafe vehicles. But a scooter is not really a toy. It's a motorized vehicle that's subject matter to specified guidelines and laws. Persons need to concentrate on the opportunity scooter risks and continue being notify when driving always. They must not push erratically, but be predictable and courteous to other drivers on the road. They need to Adhere to the pace limitations and continue being a secure length guiding other autos. Little ones ought to acquire proper training in advance of being authorized about the busier streets. By taking these few protection safeguards we can assist make certain an enjoyable Harmless driving experience for all.

Motorcycles Provide Inexpensive Motorized Travel and Recreation for People of All Ages

No matter who you are or where you live, it is not hard to see that gas prices are higher than they were a few years ago, and it is not likely they will drop much lower than they are now. In our society, bigger has often been thought to be better. When it comes to vehicles, bigger might seem safer, but that is not necessarily true. Think back to the high-center, rollover problems that SUV’s had just ten years ago.

The only conclusion that can be made about bigger vehicles is that they are more expensive to own and operate. Bigger vehicles require more expensive maintenance and repairs, and more recently, bigger means that it could easily cost $80 to fill the gas tank of that bigger, better truck.

Two decades ago, the federal government foresaw the need to teach Americans to use less fuel. The American Federal Government passed laws requiring auto manufacturers to manufacture vehicles with higher gas mileage ratings, but as is always the case with the political landscape in Washington, D.C., compromises were made. The one compromise that led us to our current fuel price crisis is that Washington exempted trucks and SUV’s from the higher gas mileage rules. If it were not for these exemptions being made, Arnold Schwarzenegger would not be driving the 15/10mpg Hummer H2H.

The 20-Somethings Get It…

Our younger generations get it. They get that America as a collective society must take steps to decrease our dependence on foreign fuel sources and we must take steps to protect the environment. The 20-Somethings have chosen to buy vehicles that get better gas mileage, and better yet, they have ushered in the acceptance of the scooter as a viable means of transport.

Young people in this country are opting to drive motorcycles and scooters, instead of their father’s Oldsmobiles. If you have any doubt, you only need to visit any college town across the country to see scooters filling the roadways.

Scooters On The Road

The Italian-made Vespa Scooters are one of the more popular gasoline-powered scooter brands on the road today. Their high-end LX models retail for under $5,000, and deliver 70-80 mpg at near 60 mph. The Vespa Scooters have actually been on the road since 1946, so the company has a lot of experience in manufacturing this type of product.

Other popular models include the Riptide Scooter, the Sinclair Scooter and the Wasp Scooter, all made by the American company GS MotorWorks. Historically, GS MotorWorks has also sold the Euro Scooter, the Retro Scooter, and Sport Scooters.

The Genuine Scooter Company produces its own line of scooters as well. Their super-charged Blur Scooters can turn on a dime and jet down the highway at nearly 70 mph. Their Black Cat model delivers more than 100 mpg on a scooter that is limited to a top speed of 30 mph. The Buddy Scooter will deliver 100 mpg, with speeds limited to 30 mph and 70 mph, depending on the model. Their Rattler Scooter is made for those rough country roads and is expected out later this year. The Genuine Scooter Company also offers a range of Stella scooter accessories, including the motorcycle-style, Stella sidecar.

Motorcycles Serve The Transportation Needs of All Generations of Riders

Motorcycles used to just be for rebels of society. Now, from teenagers to those approaching retirement, men and women, free spirits and business executives, motorcycles are everywhere. In rural areas and major cities, many people are choosing motorcycles to get them to where they want to be.

While scooters are popular among the high school and college students, older generations favor the motorcycle over the scooter. Many people were introduced to dirt bikes when they were kids, and they fell in love with the motorcycle at a young age. As adults, they now have a much wider selection of motorcycles from which to choose.

There are still many brands of motorcycles available in the marketplace: Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha, and the American-brands Harley Davidson and Kodiak. Of course, these manufacturers make a standard motorcycle for the average rider, racing bikes for the adrenaline junkies, the touring bike for those riders who like long, leisurely journeys across the country, and the recreational dirt bike for those who like off-road riding.

Off-Road Pleasures And Farming Utility

Of course, there are also people looking at motorcycles and ATVs not for transportation, but for recreation, a chance to get out in the dirt and blow off steam. The options here are no less limited, from lightweight motor-cross bikes to four-wheel ATVs, these motorcycles are built for fun.

The ATV is a popular product for the off-road riders, because it adds extra wheels to the riding surface, allowing for a slower pace and more safety. Even the aging rock giant Ozzie Osborne is known to ride a four-wheel ATV in his spare time for fun.

In the modern-age of ranching, the three-wheel and four-wheel ATV has replaced many horses, as the rancher’s transportation vehicle of choice. While you might be able to talk to and pet your horse, you cannot pull a trailer behind your horse. For strictly utilitarian purposes, the ATV simply makes more sense to most ranchers. In fact, many ranchers use the ATV to haul feed out to the horses. How is that for irony?

Motorcycle Safety Equipment

Riding motorcycles safely, whether riding for transportation between home and office, on longer trips, or just for recreation requires two things: common sense and appropriate gear. Common sense means understanding where it is safe to ride, following the rules of the road, wearing the right clothing, and avoiding unnecessary risks.

Even if there are not helmet laws in your state, requiring motorcyclists to wear helmets when they ride, helmets could mean the difference between a minor traffic accident and a funeral. Additionally, it is a good idea to wear proper shoes, boots, and clothing, as well as a visor or protective glasses.

Riders should keep in mind that vision is key to knowing what is going on around them; so choosing the proper helmet with a good viewing radius is important. If the rider chooses to not wear a helmet, a good set of goggles is the next essential piece of safety equipment. Remember, if that bug is flying across your path when it hits you, it could easily bypass those sunglasses and hit you in the eye, temporarily blinding you at 70 mph.

Proper Motorcycle Maintenance

The importance of proper motorcycle maintenance is fully realized when one thinks about the consequences of a front tire blowout at 70 mph. I don’t even want to think about that possibility. As they say, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

Good motorcycle maintenance means a lot of things. It means to make sure that the motorcycle always has a good set of tires on it. It means making sure that the motorcycle always has a good set of brakes. Motorcycles are inexpensive to care for properly, so there is no excuse for not taking care of it in a way that will prevent accidents and malfunctions.

By looking over the vehicle at regular intervals, one will be able to determine whether there are motorcycle parts, scooter parts, or even ATV parts that will need to be replaced in order to help keep the vehicle in its best condition. For example, with motorcycles, riders should always take a close look at the clutch cable, fasteners, spokes, steering heads, oil levels, and brake pads. These motorcycle parts often show signs of wear and not fixing the problem in a timely manner could easily lead to an accident.

Similarly, there are scooter parts that riders should examine regularly. Scooter tires, starters, batteries, fuel filters, chains, and other parts can suffer wear and reduce the safety and reliability of the scooter.

ATV and off-road cyclists who ride on trails and other rough surfaces will see wear and tear to a much larger degree, and they may need to replace a variety of parts to keep riding here fun: oil filters, gaskets, tires, pistons, and brakes. Additional ATV parts also need to be cared for and maintained at regular intervals. Off-road riders should also check the frame of their motorcycle or ATV on a regular basis, in order to ensure that the frame has not become a hazard to the safe operation of the bike.

No matter what, why, or how you ride, staying safe is the key. Replacing worn parts, wearing protective clothing, and following the rules of the road, all serve to keep motorized travel and recreation safe for people of all ages.

No matter whether you can be earning your inaugural vacation into the 66th Once-a-year Sturgis Bike Rally in Sturgis, SD on Aug. 7th 13th or you're quite a long time veteran in the function, This information will become a beneficial doc offering a wealth of data which include a short record on the occasion, lodging facts, routine of situations and safety strategies and journey ideas.

The Sturgis Motorcycle Rally was Check out this site organized by Clarence Pappy Hoel and associates on the Jackpine Gypsies Bike Club. The primary ever Sturgis Rally was held on Aug. fourteen, 1938 that includes the Black Hills Typical, an party which highlighted nine members and some spectators. It was resolute the event might be held yearly on the main 7 days just after the first entire weekend in August to prevent conflicts with other close by events. By 1961 it experienced expanded to incorporate Hill Climb and Motocross races As well as in 1963 the occasion expanded to 3 days. The Sturgis rally continued to expand in leaps and bounds and by 1975 it incorporated a 7 working day occasion and by the year 2000 the function was attracting about 50 percent 1,000,000 people per year Using the 2000 rally attracting in surplus of 600,000 site visitors.

The small town of Sturgis, SD has a populace of under 7,000 so it's easy to understand that an celebration attracting over half 1,000,000 tourists would build logistical problems with lodging worries. For anyone who is planning to attend, it is smart to generate reservations for accommodations well beforehand of one's trip to make sure you can secure a area near the internet site.

Tenting is a popular selection for These attending the rally. Close by campgrounds incorporate the subsequent:

* Large Rig RV Park: – features wireless Internet access and spacious lots of sixty and a hundred near the rally site.

* Bulldog Campground: capabilities RV camping and also cabins which accommodate 2-eight company. This campground is found 5 miles from Sturgis and options nightly leisure and pleased hour as well as an onsite cafe.

* Creekside Campground: Found 4 miles from Sturgis, this campground attributes RV camping, tent camping in addition to cabins. Highlights of your campground consist of an onsite retail store selling meals and beverages and straightforward freeway accessibility.

* Glencoe Camp Vacation resort: continues to be catering to Sturgis participants for more than twenty years. This campground has more than one hundred sixty acres of camping with sufficient shade. In 2006 they will unveil a 34 acre out of doors amphitheater that will attribute Dwell tunes all 7 days very long. A 24 hour cafe is also onsite to the comfort of campers.

* Hog Heaven Campground: – with around 150 acres of camping, this campground located while in the Black Hills is a super site for Sturgis contributors. The campground is open from July 31st by means of Aug. 13th this calendar year and can host Are living bands offering leisure for guests.

* Katmandu Campground: – capabilities 250 RV web pages, cabins and 50 acres of camping. Positioned just two miles from Sturgis, this location is convenient for participants. Highlighted features contain laundry services and wireless Internet access.

* Sturgis Check out Campground: – Found only one.5 miles from downtown Sturgis. This campground is popular for its spectacular sights. Other highlights consist of RV camping, cabins and ample acreage for tent tenting.

A whole function agenda for this decades function can be found at the next Internet handle: http://www.sturgismotorcyclerally.com/06Oeventschedule.pdf. This Internet site provides the time, occasion identify and placement for every of your scheduled activities. One method to gas up for your intensive listing of planned occasions is always to partake within the everyday pancake breakfast sponsored from the Marine Corps JROTC. They are available each day serving breakfast from six:00 am until finally eleven:00 am in the Sturgis Brown High School. Most days also attribute alternate breakfast functions by other clubs, such as Alcoholics Anonymous who also hosts conferences through the entire celebration, ensuring a number of dining options for the most important food from the working day.

After breakfast is outside of how, members are willing to enjoy the remainder of the festivities. Live new music has become the simple highlights in the function. Whilst there are a variety of talented musicians scheduled to complete at this several years party, the Buffalo Chip Campground features a lineup of headline performers scheduled for 2006 which includes Lynyrd Skynyrd, Child Rock, Alice in Chains and David Lee Roth.

Additionally, there are plenty of motorbike connected occasions to keep individuals occupied. Boss Hoss demo rides are showcased throughout the function. Burnout competitions are preferred with spectators and are supplied some moments through the Event at the entire Throttle Saloon. Yet another emphasize is the invention Channels Biker Build Off featuring Detroit Bros. vs. Jason Kangas. In addition, you will find demos and displays during the day daily of your party and exhibits that includes custom made bikes from throughout the country. Additionally, there are gonna be lots of sellers readily available presenting anything from bike connected merchandise to tattoos and food items and beverages.

An regrettable element of Sturgis would be the Repeated event on the disappearance of bikes through the celebration. Estimates indicate roughly $250,000 worthy of of motorcycles are stolen each and every year through the course on the celebration. Motorcycles on the upper close of the cost spectrum along with custom made bikes and exhibit designs are All those most certainly to generally be stolen, but all participants really should choose precautions to avoid getting to be a target. Care ought to be taken to park in very well lit, high traffic locations rather than dark regions with few passersby. Furthermore, participants must prevent leaving valuables like cameras, leathers and souvenirs on their own bicycle. People who might be attending the occasion must also invest in a top quality lock to secure their bicycle. Even better top quality locks usually are not fool-proof to knowledgeable thieves but They are really a definite deterrent. Lessen excellent locks aren't thought of sufficient defense mainly because they can easily be broken or Slash.

Contributors who'll be touring prolonged distances towards the party on their own motorcycle also needs to concentrate on security challenges although touring. Even People skilled with lengthy length rides should really just take security safeguards to make sure a smooth journey. One precaution is to produce a duplicate of your respective in-depth itinerary to depart during the possession of a friend or relative who will not be traveling along with you. Travelers can also be warned against touring on your own. Every time attainable, tourists must have at least 1 other rider accompany them on their own journey. Taking frequent stops to rest and retiring for your night time ahead of fatigue sets in can be a good idea.

With bike week just around the corner, bikers from all over the country are pulling their motorcycles out of winter storage and cleaning up their leathers in anticipation of a motorcycle rally like no other. While Daytona is definitely the place to be the week of March 5th, Florida offers some great stretches of road through pristine landscapes to some great biker destinations.

About an hour and a half north of Daytona on A1A lies the bustling beach community of Jacksonville Beach, which is where we will meet for the start of our road trip- because, well, thats where Im from! On any given day youll find bikes and bikers parked and hanging out at the Jax Beach Pier parking lot. Just across the street is the famed biker bar Mangos, a great place for bikers to meet, have some good home cooking and shoot some pool. Summer weekends will generally find some heavy metal band performing outside on the covered deck. So put on your best leather motorcycle jacket and come on out to Mango’s to start our first north Florida road trip.

Our first day trip will start from Jax Beach and head north on A1A to Fernandina Beach, a quaint little island town with its own unique attitude. If you follow A1A north, after bearing left at Mayport Naval Station, you will be cruising through the marshlands at the mouth of the St. Johns River and come to a dead end at the ferry in Mayport Village. A traditional fishing village, this is where most of north Florida gets their seafood. Shrimp boats, party boats, and deep sea charters line the docks, and you can even take a gambling cruise from here. If youre hungry, theres an old wooden Best Electric Scooters shack sitting on the water that serves some of the best seafood available. Singletons is not much to look at, but its been there forever and people drive for miles to sit on the water enjoying the freshest of Florida seafood, while watching the pelicans scrounge for theirs.

Taking the ferry across the river, youll once again pick up A1A heading north. To your right youll soon see a huge barren sandbar that was formed by the northern jetties at the mouth of the St. Johns. On the eastern edge are the jetties, the Atlantic Ocean, and a beach that is packed with babes of all shapes and sizes. The western side has a lagoon and the Fort George River inlet. A very wide beach at low tide, vehicles have been swallowed up and swept away by the Atlantic because of people parking just a little too close to the water, and taking a walk in the dunes. A great place for jet skiing, swimming, fishing and surfing, Huguenot Park also has a campground with primitive and RV camp sites and showers.

For the next several miles, you will be cruising through some of the most pristine and unspoiled wetlands in Florida. Island hopping through little and big Talbot Islands and the Timacuan Preserve, this coastal area is one of the few in Florida untouched by development, and will theoretically remain that way. Flora and Fauna abound, and nature lovers flock to the area in kayaks and flatboats to navigate the waterways in search of trout and redfish.

Heading across the Nassau Sound Bridge to Floridas northern most barrier island, the developments once again start to pop up. World renowned resort Amelia Island Plantation has vast acreages of condos, single family houses, an Inn rivaled by none, and a huge convention center that draws business from all over the world. A community within itself, the Plantation strives, and has done a good job, of preserving the natural habitat.

Not to be outdone, the Ritz Carlton is just a few miles north and is also a magnet for the well to do, with a golf course and all the pampering the Ritz is known for!

Almost there, we take A1A into downtown Fernandina Beach. An old fishing village like Mayport, Fernandina is much larger and has many unique and historical buildings. The waterfront is speckled with shrimp boats and deep sea charters, and Brents is the restaurant on the docks. Fernandina Beach also hosts an annual shrimp festival on the first weekend in May.

Ending our motorcycle excursion from Jacksonville Beach (about an hour non stop), our last stop is a very popular watering hole for bikers and locals alike. The Palace Saloon has been there since 1878, and although it burned in 1999, it has been restored to its original 18th century wooden dcor. More of a bar than a restaurant, this is where you get to know the locals, many of which are in the hospitality industry and definitely know how to party hardy! With live bands, dancing, flirting and drinking, the Palace Saloon is the place to party in Fernandina Beach!

In my next road trip article well head south on A1A to our nations oldest city. Founded by Ponce de Leon in 1513 and home of the fountain of youth, this place is just a tiny little drinking town with a fishing problem!

Before the 1920s it was an easy decision, a foot-powered push scooter or none at all. But once Gino Tsai from Shanghai, Taiwan developed the Razor scooter it changed everything. His motor scooters became popular so quickly there were people waiting in line for six months before they could get one.

In the 1950s companies like Vespa in the UK started selling the first of their gas motor scooters. It was a big hit at the 1950 Motorcycle Show and quickly became a big hit in the UK as well. Vespa sold over 125,000 in the UK between the years of 1950 to 1958. Piaggio from Vespa and Lambretta from Innocenti started selling their models in Italy and France too, quickly becoming the vehicles that everyone had to own. By the early 1950s the sale of motor scooters topped 1 million a year in France alone. Because of its popularity other countries such as France and Germany decided to get in on the boom by manufacturing their own models.

Today, after more than 50 years since the first gas scooters appeared, there are many different makes and models. We have electric, gas powered, foldable, mobility and utility motor scooters dotting the globe. There are specialized scooters for just about every task. They have become a worldwide phenomenon because they are cheap to own, economical to operate, are very handy and functional, and most of all they are a lot of fun. But with all of the makes and models which one is right for you?

Let’s start with the different types. Gas motor scooters are the fastest around. They will take you longer distances and reach higher speeds than any of the other varieties. There are smaller and lighter models that will be perfect for running errands around town while the larger and heavier touring models will take you on longer trips. Plus, the larger the gas tank the farther you can travel before needing to stop at a service station.

Electric varieties are a little more economical to run, but will usually travel only about 10 or 15 miles before needing a recharge. Their battery capacity has improved dramatically over the years, but they cannot be taken for long trips due to the fact that their batteries will need recharging periodically. However, for short trips around the city they are wonderful little vehicles. Plus, most scooters have a large storage capacity under the seat so they are ideal for trips to the grocery store or for other light shopping sprees.

The elderly or handicapped typically use what is referred to as mobility scooters. These are usually electric models and have 3 or 4 wheels for extra stability. These models give the elderly or disabled the ability to get about in their homes or around the neighborhood more easily. Without mobility scooters many of the disability-impaired would be confined to their beds.

Another very popular type is the foldable scooter. These are very small and are made for short trips around town. They are particularly popular among the younger crowds. The beauty of these models is that they are extremely compact and can Bike Repair Stands be folded for storage in small places. If you work just a few miles from your home you can travel to work on your folding scooter and then fold it up and put it underneath your desk at work. Very handy.

There are also utility scooters which can be used for many different purposes. They can be used as golf carts or for hauling things. Many big businesses use these types for getting around their factories. Schools use them for driving through the parking lot, checking for cars that shouldn’t be there. Major league sports stadiums use them to drive people from one place to another. These are wonderful vehicles that can be used for a variety of reasons.

Once you’ve decided which type is right for your needs the next step is to figure out what options, if any, you would like included on your vehicle. Of course you can choose from many different colors and designs, but there are other options available to you. You can choose from the many varieties of covers, locks (for security), cases or side bags for storage, helmets, seats, handgrips, windshields or windscreens, backrests for touring, chrome kits, rear luggage racks and many more options. The list of accessories can go on for quite some time.

As a rule of thumb first choose the type of scooter you want, whether it be electric, gas, foldable or utility. This is the easy part because the type you purchase will depend upon your needs. Once that decision has been made look at several popular models in your area and decide which one looks and feels right to you. Most have accessories that are manufactured for a specific model so accessories cannot be decided upon until you know which motor scooter you are going to buy. Once you’ve decided which accessories you want for the model you chose it’s a simple matter of driving your scooter out of the dealership. And it’s nothing but fun from there on out.

Motorcycles Provide Inexpensive Motorized Travel and Recreation for People of All Ages

No matter who you are or where you live, it is not hard to see that gas prices are higher than they were a few years ago, and it is not likely they will drop much lower than they are now. In our society, bigger has often been thought to be better. When it comes to vehicles, bigger might seem safer, but that is not necessarily true. Think back to the high-center, rollover problems that SUV’s had just ten years ago.

The only conclusion that can be made about bigger vehicles is that they are more expensive to own and operate. Bigger vehicles require more expensive maintenance and repairs, and more recently, bigger means that it could easily cost $80 to fill the gas tank of that bigger, better truck.

Two decades ago, the federal government foresaw the need to teach Americans to use less fuel. The American Federal Government passed laws requiring auto manufacturers to manufacture vehicles with higher gas mileage ratings, but as is always the case with the political landscape in Washington, D.C., compromises were made. The one compromise that led us to our current fuel price crisis is that Washington exempted trucks and SUV’s from the higher gas mileage rules. If it were not for these exemptions being made, Arnold Schwarzenegger would not be driving the 15/10mpg Hummer H2H.

The 20-Somethings Get It…

Our younger generations get it. They get that America as a collective society must take steps to decrease our dependence on foreign fuel sources and we must take steps to protect the environment. The 20-Somethings have chosen to buy vehicles that get better gas mileage, and better yet, they have ushered in the acceptance of the scooter as a viable means of transport.

Young people in this country are opting to drive motorcycles and scooters, instead of their father’s Oldsmobiles. If you have any doubt, you only need to visit any college town across the country to see scooters filling the roadways.

Scooters On The Road

The Italian-made Vespa Scooters are one of the more popular gasoline-powered scooter brands on the road today. Their high-end LX models retail for under $5,000, and deliver 70-80 mpg at near 60 mph. The Vespa Scooters have actually been on the road since 1946, so the company has a lot of experience in manufacturing this type of product.

Other popular models include the Riptide Scooter, the Sinclair Scooter and the Wasp Scooter, all made by the American company GS MotorWorks. Historically, GS MotorWorks has also sold the Euro Scooter, the Retro Scooter, and Sport Scooters.

The Genuine Scooter Company produces its own line of scooters as well. Their super-charged Blur Scooters can turn on a dime and jet down the highway at nearly 70 mph. Their Black Cat model delivers more than 100 mpg on a scooter that is limited to a top speed of 30 mph. The Buddy Scooter will deliver 100 mpg, with speeds limited to 30 mph and 70 mph, depending on the model. Their Rattler Scooter is made for those rough country roads and is expected out later this year. The Genuine Scooter Company also offers a range of Stella scooter accessories, including the motorcycle-style, Stella sidecar.

Motorcycles Serve The Transportation Needs of All Generations of Riders

Motorcycles used to just be for rebels of society. Now, from teenagers to those approaching retirement, men and women, free spirits and business executives, motorcycles are everywhere. In rural areas and major cities, many people are choosing motorcycles to get them to where they want to be.

While scooters are popular among the high school and college students, older generations favor the motorcycle over the scooter. Many people were introduced to dirt bikes when they were kids, and they fell in love with the motorcycle at a young age. As adults, they now have a much wider selection of motorcycles from which to choose.

There are still many brands of motorcycles available in the marketplace: Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Yamaha, and the American-brands Harley Davidson and Kodiak. Of course, these manufacturers make a standard motorcycle for the average rider, racing bikes for the adrenaline junkies, the touring bike for those riders who like long, leisurely journeys across the country, and the recreational dirt bike for those who like off-road riding.

Off-Road Pleasures And Farming Utility

Of course, there are also people looking at motorcycles and ATVs not for transportation, but for recreation, a chance to get out in the dirt and blow off steam. The options here are no less limited, from lightweight motor-cross bikes to four-wheel ATVs, these motorcycles are built for fun.

The ATV is a popular product for the off-road riders, because it adds extra wheels to the riding surface, allowing for a slower pace and more safety. Even the aging rock giant Ozzie Osborne is known to ride a four-wheel ATV in his spare time for fun.

In the modern-age of ranching, the three-wheel and four-wheel ATV has replaced many horses, as the rancher’s transportation vehicle of choice. While you might be able to talk to and pet your horse, you cannot pull a trailer behind your horse. For strictly utilitarian purposes, the ATV simply makes more sense to most ranchers. In fact, many ranchers use the ATV to haul feed out to the horses. How is that for irony?

Motorcycle Safety Equipment

Riding motorcycles safely, whether riding for transportation between home and office, on longer trips, or just for recreation requires two things: common sense and appropriate gear. Common sense means understanding where it is safe to ride, following the rules of the road, wearing the right clothing, and avoiding unnecessary risks.

Even if there are not helmet laws in your state, requiring motorcyclists to wear helmets when they ride, helmets could mean the difference between a minor traffic accident and a funeral. Additionally, it is a good idea to wear proper shoes, boots, and clothing, as well as a visor or protective glasses.

Riders should keep in mind that vision is key to knowing what is going on around them; so choosing the proper helmet with a good viewing radius is important. If the rider chooses to not wear a helmet, a good set of goggles is the next essential piece of safety equipment. Remember, if that bug is flying across your path when it hits you, it could easily bypass those sunglasses and hit you in the eye, temporarily blinding you at 70 mph.

Proper Motorcycle Maintenance

The importance of proper motorcycle maintenance is fully realized when one thinks about the consequences of a front tire blowout at 70 mph. I don’t Additional resources even want to think about that possibility. As they say, “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

Good motorcycle maintenance means a lot of things. It means to make sure that the motorcycle always has a good set of tires on it. It means making sure that the motorcycle always has a good set of brakes. Motorcycles are inexpensive to care for properly, so there is no excuse for not taking care of it in a way that will prevent accidents and malfunctions.

By looking over the vehicle at regular intervals, one will be able to determine whether there are motorcycle parts, scooter parts, or even ATV parts that will need to be replaced in order to help keep the vehicle in its best condition. For example, with motorcycles, riders should always take a close look at the clutch cable, fasteners, spokes, steering heads, oil levels, and brake pads. These motorcycle parts often show signs of wear and not fixing the problem in a timely manner could easily lead to an accident.

Similarly, there are scooter parts that riders should examine regularly. Scooter tires, starters, batteries, fuel filters, chains, and other parts can suffer wear and reduce the safety and reliability of the scooter.

ATV and off-road cyclists who ride on trails and other rough surfaces will see wear and tear to a much larger degree, and they may need to replace a variety of parts to keep riding fun: oil filters, gaskets, tires, pistons, and brakes. Additional ATV parts also need to be cared for and maintained at regular intervals. Off-road riders should also check the frame of their motorcycle or ATV on a regular basis, in order to ensure that the frame has not become a hazard to the safe operation of the bike.

No matter what, why, or how you ride, staying safe is the key. Replacing worn parts, wearing protective clothing, and following the rules of the road, all serve to keep motorized travel and recreation safe for people of all ages.

Gas motor scooters are often thought of as toys, innocent and cheap fun. But it’s exactly that type of thinking that can get a gas scooter driver into deep trouble. First and foremost scooters are motor vehicles just like motorcycles and automobiles. They share the road with other cars and trucks and are subject to similar laws and regulations. And although they are an object of desire for many they can be dangerous for the unexperienced or unprepared.

As a general rule gas powered scooters are regulated by state laws as either motorcycles or mopeds and are subject to similar regulations as these other motor vehicles. By staying alert and using caution many accidents can be avoided. Most accidents arise due to carelessness. By paying attention to what is going on around you and what other drivers are doing you can feel relatively safe out on the highway.

There are two things that cause the majority of accidents, speeding and following too closely to the vehicle ahead. Driving safely is all about giving other drivers enough reaction time. If another driver wants to change into your lane directly in front of you it may cause you to lose control if you are speeding and haven’t enough time to react. Without enough time to slow down this maneuver by the other driver may require you to move into another lane to avoid him. This can affect other drivers in other lanes which is the beginning of many accidents.

Another major mistake that many gas scooter drivers make is following too closely. When the person ahead of you suddenly slams on the brakes you need enough time to slow down comfortably. Ramming into the back of someone’s car is not what you want to do, especially when you are driving a small scooter without any protection around you. By following the speed limits and giving yourself enough room to slow down if something unexpected should happen in front of you most accidents can be prevented.

The third problem arises when gas powered scooters are purchased for use by children and teenagers who do not even possess a valid driver’s license. Drivers with licenses may not be any safer on the road than unlicensed drivers, but at least they have had some training and experience behind the wheel of a car. Children and teenagers without any training can be an accident waiting to happen when it comes to motor scooters. Without any experience or training children and young teenagers can quickly find themselves in positions that experienced drivers normally would not.

Kids have been known to throw caution into the wind, darting in and out of traffic without a clue as to the dangers. On gas scooters that are so small they can’t be seen well by other drivers, and without much driving experience or training, kids will pose a hazard to both themselves and the other motorists they come in contact with.

Parents should be strongly cautioned to have their children receive the proper amount of training on their gas power scooters before they are allowed onto the busy city streets. Find a deserted road and put them through a training Article source session. The life a parent saves may be his own children’s. Only after a parent feels comfortable with his child’s driving skills should they allow the child onto the busier streets. By making sure that our children know the safety rules of the road we are decreasing their chances of being involved in a serious accident. Before we can legally drive a car on the highway we must all pass certain tests. Why should it be any different for younger kids?

Gas or electric scooters are wonderful little vehicles that are fun to drive, cheap to buy and are very handy for traveling short distances around the neighborhood to perform errands. They usually have larger storage room than a motorcycle and are very inexpensive to operate. There are many reasons for owning a gas scooter, but in the hands of the untrained and inexperienced they can be deadly.

The ATV, go carts, dirt bikes and mini bikes are other vehicles that are often owned and operated by younger drivers. But they are usually not seen on the city streets as scooters are. Go karts are typically driven on tracks specifically designed for the go cart. And the mini bike, dirt bike or ATVs are typically driven off road. These other vehicles avoid many of the dangers that scooter drivers must face, namely traffic on the busy highway.

Gas scooters are quite popular these days, especially among the younger market who are too young to drive cars yet. Without proper training for these kids it opens the door to possible serious accidents. As the worldwide popularity of gas scooters grows we need to make sure that people’s awareness of driving and safety regulations keeps pace, especially among the kids that have no previous drivers experience.

Kids often think of gas scooters as toys, not as potentially dangerous vehicles. But a scooter is not a toy. It is a motor vehicle that is subject to certain laws and regulations. People need to be aware of the potential scooter dangers and remain alert while driving at all times. They should not drive erratically, but be predictable and courteous to other drivers on the road. They should follow the speed limits and remain a safe distance behind other vehicles. Kids should receive proper training before being allowed on the busier streets. By taking these few safety precautions we can help ensure a fun safe driving experience for all.

Whether or not you will be making your inaugural excursion on the 66th Yearly Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in Sturgis, SD on Aug. 7th thirteenth or you will be quite a long time veteran on the function, this article will be described as a valuable document supplying a prosperity of information which includes a quick background of the occasion, lodging facts, program of events and basic safety tips and vacation tips.

The Sturgis Bike Rally was arranged by Clarence Pappy Hoel and associates in the Jackpine Gypsies Motorcycle Club. The initial ever Sturgis Rally was held on Aug. 14, 1938 showcasing the Black Hills Classic, an celebration which featured nine contributors and a few spectators. It was determined which the event could well be held every year on the very first 7 days after the primary whole weekend in August to avoid conflicts with other nearby situations. By 1961 it experienced expanded to include Hill Climb and Motocross races and in 1963 the celebration expanded to three times. The Sturgis rally ongoing to mature in leaps and bounds and by 1975 it involved a seven working day event and by the yr 2000 the event was attracting more than 50 % a million site visitors each year With all the 2000 rally attracting in excessive of 600,000 guests.

The tiny town of Sturgis, SD features a inhabitants of fewer than 7,000 so it can be easy to understand that an party attracting more than half one million tourists would make logistical problems with lodging issues. If you are planning to attend, it's smart to generate reservations for lodging effectively upfront within your vacation to make sure you can safe a area near the positioning.

Tenting is a well-liked selection for Individuals attending the rally. Close by campgrounds include things like the subsequent:

* Massive Rig RV Park: – features wi-fi Access to the internet and roomy many sixty and 100 near to the rally web-site.

* Bulldog Campground: options RV camping in addition to cabins which accommodate 2-eight company. This campground is situated Additional resources five miles from Sturgis and capabilities nightly leisure and happy hour and also an onsite restaurant.

* Creekside Campground: located 4 miles from Sturgis, this campground functions RV tenting, tent camping as well as cabins. Highlights with the campground include things like an onsite shop promoting foods and beverages and straightforward highway entry.

* Glencoe Camp Resort: has long been catering to Sturgis individuals for over twenty years. This campground has above a hundred and sixty acres of tenting with ample shade. In 2006 they're going to unveil a 34 acre outdoor amphitheater which will aspect live music all week extensive. A 24 hour cafe is usually onsite for the usefulness of campers.

* Hog Heaven Campground: – with over one hundred fifty acres of camping, this campground located within the Black Hills is a really perfect location for Sturgis members. The campground is open from July 31st by Aug. 13th this yr and will host Are living bands offering entertainment for attendees.

* Katmandu Campground: – functions 250 RV websites, cabins and 50 acres of tenting. Located just two miles from Sturgis, this site is hassle-free for contributors. Highlighted amenities include things like laundry amenities and wireless Internet access.

* Sturgis Look at Campground: – Positioned only 1.5 miles from downtown Sturgis. This campground is famed for its stunning views. Other highlights incorporate RV camping, cabins and enough acreage for tent tenting.

An entire event agenda for this yrs celebration are available at the following World wide web handle: http://www.sturgismotorcyclerally.com/06Oeventschedule.pdf. This Site offers some time, party identify and site for every of your scheduled functions. One way to fuel up for your substantial listing of planned gatherings is always to partake during the day by day pancake breakfast sponsored via the Marine Corps JROTC. They are available daily serving breakfast from six:00 am till eleven:00 am within the Sturgis Brown Highschool. Most times also function alternate breakfast activities by other clubs, including Alcoholics Anonymous who also hosts conferences through the entire party, ensuring a number of eating selections for The most crucial meal in the working day.

After breakfast is away from the way, members are ready to appreciate the remainder of the festivities. Reside tunes has become the plain highlights from the occasion. While there are a selection of proficient musicians scheduled to conduct at this many years function, the Buffalo Chip Campground incorporates a lineup of headline performers scheduled for 2006 like Lynyrd Skynyrd, Kid Rock, Alice in Chains and David Lee Roth.

There are also loads of bike linked occasions to maintain contributors occupied. Manager Hoss demo rides are showcased through the celebration. Burnout competitions are common with spectators and are offered several moments in the Event at the Full Throttle Saloon. Yet another spotlight is the invention Channels Biker Establish Off showcasing Detroit Bros. vs. Jason Kangas. Furthermore, you will discover demos and exhibits throughout the day each day on the party and reveals featuring custom made bikes from around the region. Additionally, there are gonna be many distributors readily available offering every little thing from motorbike connected merchandise to tattoos along with foodstuff and beverages.

An unfortunate element of Sturgis may be the Recurrent incidence of your disappearance of bikes through the party. Estimates indicate close to $250,000 truly worth of bikes are stolen yearly over the training course with the party. Motorcycles on the upper close of the worth spectrum in addition to tailor made bikes and exhibit types are People almost certainly to be stolen, but all individuals ought to consider safeguards to stop getting a victim. Care should be taken to park in nicely lit, large targeted visitors spots rather than dark spots with few passersby. Also, participants must avoid leaving valuables for instance cameras, leathers and souvenirs on their own bicycle. People that is going to be attending the occasion must also put money into a high quality lock to secure their bike. Even higher high quality locks will not be idiot-evidence to seasoned thieves but These are a definite deterrent. Reduced high quality locks are certainly not regarded suitable defense since they can easily be broken or cut.

Members who'll be touring long distances to the function on their own motorbike must also be aware of basic safety challenges even though touring. Even These skilled with very long distance rides should really get safety safeguards to be sure a smooth trip. Just one precaution is to create a duplicate within your comprehensive itinerary to go away during the possession of a pal or relative who will not be touring with you. Vacationers are also warned towards traveling alone. Anytime probable, travelers should have at the least just one other rider accompany them on their own journey. Getting Recurrent stops to relaxation and retiring to the night time in advance of fatigue sets in can also be recommended.