Major Update to Ride Trader iPhone App, you can now post ads directly from the app

Step 1, Choose a make model and engine size for your motorcycle

We’ve added some major new functionality to the free Ride Trader UK iPhone application.

You can now head outside, snap a photo of your bike using the phone camera and create and upload your motorcycle advertisement straight from the app!

We’ve tried to streamline the functionality to make placing ads as quick and intuitive as possible, should only take a couple of minutes to create your ad and you don’t need to go anywhere near a computer!

Once your ad has been created, you can edit the text and add/remove photos using your phone at any time. Once your motorcycle has been sold you can also remove the ad from the site.

Step 2, Choose your bikes age and location

All motorcycle ads created using the iPhone application will appear within the app itself and also within the main www.ridetrader.co.uk website.

You’ll need an account on ridetrader.co.uk to post ads from the phone but if you don’t have one, you can register for your free account from the phone app itself.

As per the main Ride Trader website, uploading advertisements from your phone is completely free!

Here’s a few screenshots from within the app to show how simple advertising your motorcycle with Ride Trader is:

Step 3. Using the phone keyboard, type some text about the motorcycle for sale

Step 4. Upload photos of your motorcycle directly from your iPhone Photo Album


Step 5, Once your ad has been posted, you can edit it at any time whilst on the move


To install the Ride Trader iPhone app on your iPhone, iPod Touch or iPad, open the App Store on the device and search for ‘Ride Trader’.

Posted in Motorcycle News, Ride Trader UK | Leave a comment

Motorcycle Live, NEC 2011 – Stuff Wot I Seen

I hit the NEC show in Brum today, was a cracking day. Decent turnout from Joe Public and all major manufacturers present and correct.

Have posted a few photos below of several of the bikes that caught my eye (apologies for the roughness of some of them, couldn’t be arsed carrying a camera around so the iPhone was on photo duty):

Triumph Steve McQueen Limited Edition

First of all is the Triumph Steve McQueen special edition. Had seen a few pics of this before I went to the show but its a real beauty in the flesh. This is a limited edition run (1,100 bikes?) so guessing they’ll all be sold pretty much immediately. Nice.

The camera doesn’t do justice to how sexy the green looks.

It even has McQueens moniker slapped on the side of it.

Next up is not a new bike, but one that I thought looked particularly sweet in its Red/White/Black Evo form and thats the Ducati 848. I’d always liked the 848′s in their Arctic White livery but then saw this one. If I were to shell out for Ducati’s little superbike the it’d be in this colour.

And last but not least (unfortunately as i’d planned to upload a load of bike pics but while posting this have just realised that most of the photos i’d taken on my phone are rubbish) is the new Ducati 1199 Panigale.

It follows the Italian tradition of being unable to create something that looks shit and was certainly attracting big crowds of middle aged men who were nodding approvingly.

Would look nice on a plinth in my lounge.

As i’ve run out of useable photos, i’ll mention the Yamaha Off Road Experience. I missed out on this last year as it got booked up speedily and there are only limited slots available. This year though, we arrived early and legged it to the stand to book a place.

Have to say, i’d heartily recommend it. I’ve not ridden off-road for donkeys years and that was on an old Yammy DT, i’ve not tried one of these new fangled motocross bikes at all.

After gearing up and getting a brief on how to ride them properly we were let loose on the course which was a load of sharp hairpin-like bends and a few small jumps.

First thing that hits you is how ruddy tall these WR250′s are, i’m used to my little GSX-R750 so getting onto one of these and being on tippy-toes is bizarre. They are also monstrously tourquey, once you crack the throttle, bang, it goes. Nice.

Paul from Ride Trader goes off-road

First lap was shaky but after that it was a real buzz sliding the thing about and trying to get some air. Really different experience to road biking and something i’m going to explore more. If you fancy it, check out www.yamaha-schools.co.uk.

Heres a pic of me modelling the kit they gave us (which smelt like a mixture of dead Badger and burnt hair).

Paul

Posted in Motorcycle News, Ride Trader UK | Leave a comment

Fitting a Sat-Nav to a Suzuki GSX-R

Love them or loath them, it can’t be denied that a sat-nav is certainly a handy piece of kit to have around, especially when touring.

GSX-R with Ram Mount

I had a few days free so decided to take the bike over to Ireland and thought the trip would be much more pleasant if I wasn’t having to worry about checking a map. I normally use the plastic cover of my tank bag to hold a map but this time wanted to travel light and didn’t want a bag cramping my riding.

Looking around, there’s not a huge range of sat-navs available for motorcycles compared to the monstrous range of car devices so, in the end, I went for the cheapest option and got the TomTom Urban Rider ‘Regional’, which comes with UK & ROI maps. Will post a review of the unit once i’ve had the chance to fully test it on a number of rides in different conditions but initial impression is that its a nice compact robust little thing.

Then came fitting – obviously, all motorcycles are different, its not just a case of ‘one size fits all’. A lot of the kits are designed to be bar mounted, which, if you look at the bars on a GSX-R, isn’t a real option!

The TomTom itself comes with a number of different fitting widgets, but to actually attach it to your bike you’ll need a kit to create a mounting point for it. Various fitting kits I saw used the triple trees or the clutch/brake reservoir. I decided to fit mine to the reservoir clamps.

The following guide shows which parts were used and how the kit was fitted. Apologies for the quality of some of the images, this was a quick job after work and I was losing light.

1. Fitting Kit

GSX-R ram sat nav mount kit

gsxr ram sat nav mount

I went for a kit from Ram, took me a while to work out the right part for my GSX-R 750 (RAM-B-174-A-TOM1U). This is the UK part, I think the US part has a different code so be sure to search Ram’s site before you buy, they have a list of motorcycle makes and models along with the kit numbers.

The kit fits multiple models of bike so comes with a bag of various fittings, nuts and bolts and seems to also include kit to fix the mounting to the bikes bars (or any round rail) if required.

Bag-o-bolts

I went for the brake/clutch fitting though, and, as you’ll see below, this was pretty simple to fit.

2. Fitting the mount to the bike

The following fitting was performed on a 2009 GSX-R 750 but (as far as I know) should be the same on the Gixxer 600 or 1000 of various years. As stated before, make sure you check the exact year and model with the mount manufacturer before buying.

GSX-R Clutch/Brake Reservoir

First, unscrew and remove one of the bolts holding the clutch/brake reservoir clamp to the bars (don’t remove both or the reservoir will fall off!). This took an 8mm socket on my K8. Once you’ve removed the bolt then compare it against the two sets of long bolts supplied with the Ram mounting kit. Place the threads of the bikes’ bolt into each pair of fitting kit bolts, only one pair of kit bolts will match, this is the pair you’ll use for the fitting. Make sure you get the right set otherwise you could damage the thread on your reservoir clamp.

Ram Mount Assembly

Then select the following bits from the fitting kit:

  • Handlebar base (the long plate with the ball on the end)
  • 2 x long bolts that you matched to the thread of the bolt you took off the bike
  • 2 x larger diameter lock washers
  • 2 x plastic spacers

The mount is assembled as shown in the photo and, once put together with the spacers, the visible thread on the bolt should be pretty much the same length as the bolt you took off the bike.

Fitting Mount to GSX-R Reservoir

Now screw the mount to the bike at the mounting point of the bolt you removed earlier, just finger tighten it enough to ensure the reservoir clamp remains in place while you remove the other bolt. Once both mounting bolts are in place then tighten until the clamp is secure and there is no movement.

The mounting point is now complete and ready to accept the mounting arm. The backplate supplied with the Ram mount screws onto the TomToms’ plastic dock and then the dock connects to the bike via the plastic ‘arm’.

TomTom Mounting Arm

The mounting kit with the arm is shown in the following photo, once the bolt on the arm is unscrewed, it can be rotated into any position and then locked once you are happy with the location of the sat-nav.

The fitting itself seems very sturdy and once the arm is locked into place it is pretty solid, certainly doesn’t seem like it’d be affected by speed or vibration.

3. Impressions & Summary

The kit was very easy to fit, requires minimal tools (I only needed an 8mm socket and an Allen key) and seems well made.

Once the arm and sat-nav are removed, the mounting point itself is unobtrusive so I wouldn’t feel the need to remove it when not touring (i.e, it doesn’t spoil the ‘look’ of the bike).

GSX-R with TomTom Rider Sat nav

 

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Because the arm can be rotated to any position, its easy to position the sat-nav somewhere that looks good, only to find that it fouls the fairing when the bars are at left lock. So be sure to test by turning the bars fully to ensure its clear, and make sure the arm is properly tightened so it stays that way. Bit embarrassing to find at the first left-hand junction that the sat-nav smacks into your fairing and you can’t make the turn!

Now the unit is fitted, I need to feed it some juice. TomTom quote 6 hours battery life but I can’t comment on that yet. Fair to assume though that i’ll want to recharge it on the move, so the next article will be about setting up a 12v feed to it.

Will also post on how I find the Urban Rider performs on my upcoming trip round the Emerald Isle.

Durbs.

Posted in Ride Trader UK | Leave a comment

Brighton to Russia on a 125!

Anthony Jackson is on a mammoth journey for charity across all sorts of terrain to the capital of Mongolia, on a Chinese built Sinnis Apache 125! So far he’s ridden all the way from Goodwood in England 7,000 miles through 11 countries on his way to Mongolia.

Anthony Jackson Brighton To Russia 125 Trip

Currently Anthony and the Apache have made it to Barnaul – his last city in Russia before reaching the Mongolian border, saying “I travelled across France, Belgium , Germany then into Czech Republic, through Austria, Hungary, Slovakia, then Poland… Ukraine and now Russia.“. Riding as much as 14 hours in a day and covering as much as 2,500 miles in just 4 days both bike and rider are being tested like never before.

He’s been chased away from campsites and forced to wait at borders for days as he chose not to pay the $1,000 to $2,000 fines for apparent ‘invalid paperwork’ but he’s kept his nerve and made it through with just the delay.

The only issues he has had with the bike, apart from the school boy error of running out of fuel in Germany, has been with a fork leg. Anthony managed to damage it when servicing the bike in a car park, but was fortunate enough to get a replacement part from a local dealer in the Ukraine. Very handy considering he doesn’t have a support vehicle.

Describing the current leg of the Mongol Rally Anthony says “Russia has been tough, hot, dirty, smoggy & literally thousands of trucks trying to push you out of the way! Police everywhere, there’s nowhere to buy food just filling stations… I’m coughing up black dirt!… I’ve covered most of southern Russia in a few days, am very tired but bike’s been great!”

Anthony says the quality of the roads has been degenerating throughout the journey, and they actually disappear when he crossed the last border to Mongolia saying “Unfortunately the border I’m registered with has very bad roads… i.e. none.”, so this is when the challenge steps up a gear!

Anthony has had to rely on his gear supplied by many sponsors including Ocford Products, Akito, Nitro, LS2 helmets, Lazer helmets, Silkolene, Putoline, Forcefield armour, Bike it, Lloyd Lifestyle and many dealers have all played their part and I am so grateful!”

You can follow Anthony’s journey via his page www.facebook.com/anthonysadventure or support his cause at www.justgiving.com/antjack55 to help raise money for leukemia Research.

Posted in Motorcycle News | Leave a comment

Would you know what to do if your mate crashes?

First Aid Training – not one of the first things that pops into a bikers mind when heading for a rideout.

What if the worst happens though? You are out for a ride with a mate and a car pulls out on him/her, or you both round a corner to find another biker lying in the road – are you confident that you would know how to handle it?

How a casualty is treated immediately after an accident is extremely important so, as a rider, its a great idea to familiarise yourself with what to do if you are first on scene.

Northern Training Services offer training performed by bikers, for bikers – view the following PDF for details: Northern Training Services

Posted in Ride Trader UK | Leave a comment

Rain Or Shine, Furygan Has You Covered

When the British summer time can bring morning sunshine followed by an afternoon monsoon, it’s not always easy to find weather-appropriate motorcycle gear. Whatever the conditions this year, Furygan has it covered with a range of items for the unpredictable weather.

The Cup 3 En 1 touring-style jacket is, as its name suggests, a three-in-one model that covers all-weather riding. It features not only a removable thermal lining for those chilly summer mornings, but also a separate 100% waterproof lining that can be removed dependent on the weather. All exposed zips are watertight and the front zip is protected by a double storm flap.

If the elusive heat wave arrives, the Cup 3 En 1 offers an advanced Airflow System with two large chest vents, arm slits and two exhaust vents in the rear. The openings are held in place with magnetic studs to ensure constant airflow while on the move. The jacket also comes with a removable CE-approved D3O protection in the shoulders and elbows and a back protector as standard. It is available in Black in sizes S-4XL with an SRP of £199.99.

For a sportier model that offers the same level of versatility, the Warrior textile race-style jacket is ideal. It is waterproof, windproof, highly breathable and also features the Airflow System to keep the rider cool in hot weather. When the summer takes a turn for the worse, the removable alu-thermal lining works to retain body heat. With CE-approved D3O armour in the shoulders and elbows and a back protector fitted as standard, the Warrior jacket is available in Black in S-4XL with an SRP of £199.99.

For downpour days when nothing but a full waterproof covering will do, Furygan introduces its rainwear collection. With the all-in-one Rain Suit (SRP £69.99) or the two-piece Rain Suit 8 jacket (SRP £29.99) and Rain Pant (SRP £14.99) to choose from, there is an option to suit all riders. All three items feature a 100% waterproof outer with a breathable fixed lining, watertight seams and zips and a casual fit for ease of movement – guaranteed to keep you riding whatever the weather.

For more information on Furygan products and to find your nearest stockist visit www.nevis.uk.com or call 01425 478936.

Posted in Motorcycle News | Leave a comment

Prodigy Frontman Keith Flint Puts New GSX-R750 Through Its Paces

Prodigy frontman and Suzuki fan, Keith Flint, finally got the chance to put his new 2011 GSX-R750 through its paces last month, as he joined Suzuki customers for the first GSX-R track day of the year at Brands Hatch in Kent.

Flint, who races a specially prepared GSX-R1000 in the Hottrax Endurance Championship, took delivery of the new 750 last month, with the initial intention of turning it into a special track bike, but after riding it on the road, quickly decided to use it for the big road trips he has planned this summer.

Talking about the new GSX-R750, Flint said,“I’ve had a string of GSX-Rs over the years and with the 750 renowned for offering the perfect balance of power and handling, when I heard about the new one, I had to have it. I spoke with Michael Neeves at Motorcycle News about it after the launch and knew it was the right choice, so got my name down sharpish. The plan was to race it, but when I realised what a good road bike it is too, I decided to leave it in road trim a little longer ready for the trips to Le Mans and the TT that I have planned with my mates.”

The 2011 GSX-R750 boasts an incredible 8kg weight reduction over its predecessor and offers Showa Big Piston Forks as standard and Brembo’s infamous Monoblock Calipers. Combined with the legendary 750cc engine, the 2011 GSX-R750 offers the perfect balance of power and control.

Posted in Motorcycle News | Leave a comment

Follow Ride Trader On Twitter

We’re certainly not as prolific Tweet-wise as Stephen Fry and still aren’t overly sure what a ‘hash tag’ is but if you want the occasional biking nugget then you can follow us on Twitter via http://www.twitter.com/ridetrader.

Posted in Ride Trader UK | Leave a comment

‘I, SUPERBIKER’ Movie Now Available On DVD!

Following fantastic reviews, a hugely successful film premier in Leicester Square and sell-out screenings ‘I, Superbiker’ is now available to buy on DVD.

‘I, SUPERBIKER’, is a no-holds barred full length motorcycling documentary film, directed by Mark Sloper (The Final Cut and Small Time Obsession) in association with the MCE Insurance sponsored British Superbike Championship (BSB) and Motorcycle News (MCN). With the film score by David Vanian of The Damned, and music by Phil Collen of Def Leppard and Man Raze it is definitely a must see.

This high-octane documentary is the first of its kind to closely follow the exploits of four motorcycle racers as they compete in the hotly contested MCE Insurance sponsored British Superbike Championship. The film, shot in high definition, takes an intimate look at the two-wheel gladiators as they risk life and limb at each race meeting knowing that there can be only one champion. As well as capturing stunning on-track action, the film goes behind the scenes to follow the unfolding drama among wives, girlfriends, teammates and managers. Everyone wants their rider to win and passions are aroused when things go wrong.

One of the four riders featured is the great British hope, Tommy Hill; having cheated death at the age of 14 Tommy is now fearless and his parents have sacrificed their home, holidays and finances to support his burning ambition to be Britain’s number 1 superbike racer. Tommy commented, “British Superbikes is motorcycle racing at its very best and this film shows that brilliantly. It’s amazing to see BSB on the cinema screen. It’s a massive sport with a great following – now hopefully people who don’t know it that well can see what an incredible event it is”.

Alongside Tommy Hill, ‘I,Superbiker’ is a revealing portrait of the highs and lows of fellow racers, James Ellison, Josh Brookes and Gary Mason, riding through torturous conditions and risking life and limb at every race meeting. Motorcycle fans and thrill seekers alike will be able to experience the gladiatorial speed, strength and tenacity of the riders as they battle their way through the dramatic 2010 BSB Championship.

+ EXTRAS INCLUDING: THE LEICESTER SQUARE PREMIER – GARY MASON’S LAP OF BRANDS HATCH JAMES ELLISON’S ROAD TO RECOVERY – TRAINING WITH TOMMY HILL – JOSH BROOKES IS KING OF THE MOUNTAIN AND THEATRICAL TRAILER!

The film’s writer, producer and director Mark Sloper of 400 TV commented: “I wanted to capture the emotion and passion of motorcycle racing – a classic motorcycle racing film that might be set in the 2010 season but can still be fresh in years to come”. He added, “I also wanted it to appeal to people outside of the motorcycle industry and fan-base. And I wanted to try and change outsiders’ perceptions of motorcycling”.

Posted in Motorcycle News | Leave a comment