http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news.aspx 60 en-us http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/fuel-efficient-electric-motorcycles-may-sell-better-than-electric-cars-800717584.aspx While sales of hybrid and plug-in electric vehicles fell below expectations, some auto industry experts say new electric motorcycles could be more appealing for eco-friendly drivers. John Welsh, a writer for the Wall Street Journal*, blogged about his experience at the International Motorcycle Show and says amid the heavy and powerful bikes and motorcycles available, lighter, more fuel efficient models may appeal to some riders.

Many drivers turned to riding on two wheels instead of four when gas prices hiked up, but some potential motorcyclists may have avoided switching from car to bike because traditional motorcycles are seen as hard to ride and their loud engines can be intimidating. Welsh said the electric models are the solution to these driver concerns.

Instead of running on gas, lithium batteries power electric motorcycles and eliminate the loud noise and emissions associated with traditional motorcycles.

The higher pricetag that comes with electric cars carries over to two wheels and could be the one factor that delays customers from converting to the more fuel efficient versions. Two models from the manufacturer Zero, the S and the DS start at $11,495 and get around 76 miles per battery charge. Welsh says to increase range to 114 miles, drivers can upgrade to models with higher-capacity batteries which also have a higher value, just under $14,000.

After having ridden the Zero S model in 2009, Welsh said the newer version has improved from its earlier edition. In the blog, he noted that the quiet ride allows drivers to hear surrounding traffic and the speedy acceleration is great for the stop-and-go traffic of big cities. The motor of the Zero S provides riders with 28 horsepower and weighs under 300 pounds, a considerably lower amount than other motorcycles.

Motorcycle.com** reports that despite their recent revealing, electric motorcycles are already gaining popularity in the market. The site predicts that as the technology continues to improve and prices become more competitive, drivers will flock to the quieter models.

The only downfall of the eco friendly motorcycles is the range they get on a single charge. According to the site, the mileage should improve as more major manufacturers develop electric models.

*according to the Wall Street Journal on January 20, 2012

**according to Motorcycle.com on February 28, 2012 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/fuel-efficient-electric-motorcycles-may-sell-better-than-electric-cars-800717584.aspx Tue, 28 Feb 2012 10:19:38 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/celebrity-motorcycles-go-on-auction-block-in-vegas-800709748.aspx Leather motorcycle jackets were among the common sights beheld at the Rio Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas in early January, as more than 500 motorcycles used by celebrities were put up for auction.

Auctions America by RM held its first annual motorcycle auction in Las Vegas on January 12 through 14. A motley crew of motorcycles was in attendance from some of Hollywood's most recognized names, such as Steve McQueen, best-known for his roles in the action films "The Great Escape" and "The Getaway." His 1938 Harley Davidson was among the bikes on display and up for sale.

Prior to the start of the event, auctioneer Dennis Wisbey told FoxNews.com* how much he anticipated the bike would sell for.

"We're hoping that this particular motorcycle brings in the $65,000 to $75,000 range," said Wisbey.

Bikes from the collection of NBA legend and Hall of Famer Michael Jordan were also up for sale. According to the source, four of Jordan's Yamahas were set to be sold prior to the auction, all of which were estimated to command between $20,000 and $25,000 each.

Noted magician and illusionist Criss Angel's motorcycles were on display as well. Hoping the bike would establish its own disappearing act via auction, Wisbey said Angel's 2010 Camagna T-Rex has 200 horsepower, powered by a ZX-14 Kawasaki engine was expected to bring in between $55,000 and $75,0000.

Ed Capuran, chief financial officer of Auctions America, told the source that celebrity ownership is a definite draw for casual and serious motorcycle shoppers alike, which is why he anticipated attracting more than $5 million in bids.

Based on sales results, however, the event fell just short of expectations.

Auction yielded $4.1 million in sales

Auctions America reported that approximately $4.1 million in total sales was generated during the three-day event, with 82 percent of its volume purchased by auction attendants.

"We are extremely pleased by the response and outcome of the sale," said Donnie Gould, president of Auctions America. "

He added that for a first-time event, sales were solid and received "nothing but positive feedback from the buyers, sellers and attendees on the quality and diversity of the offering."

The celebrity motorcycle weekend's top seller went to the 1910 Flying Merkel, selling for $86,800, according to Auctions America. Another top finisher was Angel's 1926 Cleveland Flowler, which fetched $76,160.

Full sales results from the motorcycle event are published at Auction America's website. The company has scheduled additional motorcycle auctions around the country throughout the year.

*according to FoxNews.com on Jan. 14, 2012 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/celebrity-motorcycles-go-on-auction-block-in-vegas-800709748.aspx Thu, 16 Feb 2012 13:05:57 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/motorcycle-customers-pleased-with-their-new-rides-shopping-experience-800692184.aspx As biking enthusiasts drive off of motorcycle dealerships' lots, many are doing so with a smile on their face.

According to J.D. Power Associates' 2011 U.S. Motorcycle Competitive Information Study, the satisfaction of motorcycle buyers rose considerably this past year when compared to 2010 in almost every satisfaction indicator.

Customers most satisfied with sales experience

J.D. Power assessed motorcycle customers' contentment with new motorcycles based on six factors, including the overall product, the quality of its build, the cost of ownership and the sales experience. Of all the measurements, customers’ appreciation of the sales experience registered the biggest increase, rising to 85 on a 1,000-point scale from last year's 838. Satisfaction with the product and cost of ownership also rose year-over-year.

"The increase in overall satisfaction and the improvements in five of the six factors are very positive news for the industry, which is still trying to fully recover from the blow the economy has delivered in recent years," said Brent Gruber, senior manager of power sports and commercial vehicles at J.D. Power. "Improving the quality of motorcycles, as well as the sales and service experience, certainly positions the manufacturers and their dealerships well for market recovery."

Half of respondents say they've encountered zero problems during ownership

Another reason why motorcycle customers' satisfaction levels have risen the way they have may be related to encountering fewer problems during ownership. For every 100 motorcycles, there was an average of 122 problems, down from 133 in 2010, the report found. The study also indicated that as many as 50 percent of owners said they encountered no problems whatsoever with their new motorcycles. As a result, these individuals had a satisfaction level of 963 out of 1,000 with the build of motorcycles. However, when respondents reported experiencing two or more problems in the course of ownership, satisfaction with build quality plummeted to 871.

Gruber said that customers' sense of satisfaction is something motorcycle dealers should take seriously, as these owners tend to reward dealerships through future purchases. According to the survey, among owners with satisfaction levels of 900 and above, 97 percent said they'd be willing to recommend their motorcycle brand to others who were considering buying a bike. Eighty-one percent said they would likely buy the same brand the next time they were in the market.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/motorcycle-customers-pleased-with-their-new-rides-shopping-experience-800692184.aspx Wed, 25 Jan 2012 12:31:12 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/the-fonzs-motorcycle-to-be-auctioned-off-800631796.aspx The motorcycle of an American institution who epitomized what it was to be cool is on the auction block.

The New York Times reports the motorcycle of Arthur Fonzarelli—affectionately known as "The Fonz" of the 1970s television series "Happy Days"—will be sold to the highest bidder at the Bonhams' Classic California Sale at the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles on November 12.

The vintage motorcycle for sale is a 1949 Triumph Trophy TR5 Scrambler. And while it never actually ran in the 10-year span of filming the series, according to the motorcycle's builder and owner, it's in significant need of repair.

Jared Zugg, a specialist with the auction house Bonhams, told The New York Times in a telephone interview that the motorcycle seat sags, it's riddled with rust and the speedometer is smashed. Nevertheless, the bike is expected to fetch between $60,000 and $80,000, according to Zugg, mainly because of its rarity and prestige.

The motorcycle that's up for auction isn't the only one The Fonz straddled between 1974 and 1984, the length of the show's production. As The New York Times reports, Fonzie sat, leaned on or posed next to at least four motorcycles during the show's decade-long run. However, Zugg says the 1949 Triumph Trophy TR5 is the only one that's survived more than 25 years later.

The history of The Fonz's motorcycle

As the Times reports, the man that provided The Fonz and the "Happy Days" cast with the motorcycle was Bud Ekins, who was a well-known motocross rider in the 1950s and 60s, excelling in many off-road races in the U.S. He eventually left the sport, but continued his motorcycle riding in other ways, becoming a stunt double for Hollywood legends like Steve McQueen in "The Great Escape."

Ekins' popularity prompted "Happy Days" producers to get in touch with him when they needed a motorcycle for Fonzie. Initially, Ekins had Fonzie, played by Henry Winkler, try out a Harley-Davidson. But because Winkler lacked any motorcycle riding experience, show producers asked Ekins for a smaller ride, which led to the '49 TR-5.

While Arthur Fonzarelli was known for exuding confidence, Winkler admits he never had faith in his motorcycle riding abilities. In a 2000 interview with Cycle World magazine, he confessed his reticence.

"I am scared to death of motorcycles," said Winkler. "That's how good an actor I am."
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/the-fonzs-motorcycle-to-be-auctioned-off-800631796.aspx Tue, 01 Nov 2011 12:11:13 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/air-force-offers-motorcycle-safety-course-for-servicemen-800602213.aspx Though a limited number of Air Force service members drive motorcycles—approximately 8 percent of all airmen consider themselves riders—there's been a rash of motorcycle accident fatalities within the past several years among its ranks.

According to the Air Force Center, 176 Airmen have lost their lives after being involved in a motorcycle accident within the past 10 years. Of those accidents, 73 percent of them were attributable to reckless driving.

But the Air Force isn't the only branch of the military that's seen a surge in motorcycle accidents among its core. The same source reports that Army service members have seen a 50 percent increase in motorcycle accident fatalities for soldiers within the past year.

Motorcycle safety course is free to service members

A division of the Air Force located in Richardson, Alaska, runs a motorcycle safety course for members of the military called the Basic Riders Course to encourage responsible driving. It's hosted by Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson. The training session is held over two days and equipment is provided to the participants—all at no cost to the service member.

JBER also offers a one-day safety course that lasts for three hours, and includes interactive classroom lessons in addition to four hours of actual riding time. Some of the driving techniques taught include what speed is the optimum level to drive at and how to maneuver around tight corners safely.

"Lack of training, riding beyond skill levels and excessive speed all contributed to the injuries and deaths we all work so hard to prevent," said JBER in a press release. "Don't become a statistic."

Motorcycle fatalities hit record high in 2008

While the fatality rate among military members has been high, taking a motorcycle safety course is advisable for everyone based on the prevalence of bike accidents. According to the U.S Department of Transportation's National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, approximately 4,500 people died in motorcycle crashes in 2009 alone, the latest year for which data is available.

While that total is lower than the previous year--where 5,312 bikers died from motorcycle accidents - 2008 marked the highest rate of motorcycle accident fatalities on a yearly basis since the NHTSA began keeping track of the statistic in 1975. Based on the frequency of fatalities, the NHTSA says that in 2008, motorcyclists were 39 times more likely to die in a crash compared to individuals who were in a passenger vehicle.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/air-force-offers-motorcycle-safety-course-for-servicemen-800602213.aspx Thu, 22 Sep 2011 14:46:45 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/motorcycle-website-for-consumers-now-provides-full-history-reports-800407047.aspx NADAguides.com, the online consumer guide to motorcycles and motorcycle parts, is now adding a database of Cyclechex motorcycle history reports.
Cyclechex provides historical information about motorcycles, scooters and dirt bikes dating back to 1981. Using reports from governmental agencies, Cyclechex tells consumers the bike's last odometer reading, its registration number, the manufacturer's recall history and VIN decoding.

Now, NADAguides.com will let its customers purchase Cyclechex reports from their website for $24.95 each or $49.95 for three reports.

"In-market buyers come to our site to have their questions answered so that they can walk into a dealership with assurance that they are making a smart purchase," says vice president of operations Lenny Sims. "Adding motorcycle history reports by Cyclechex is just one more step we have taken to assist consumers with making a purchase they can be sure of."

Information and data obtained from vehicle history reports may be important when deciding on what kind of motorcycle insurance policy is best for you and your bike, given its specific maintenance or crash history.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/motorcycle-website-for-consumers-now-provides-full-history-reports-800407047.aspx Tue, 15 Feb 2011 14:46:24 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/giffords-to-return-as-co-chair-of-motorcycle-caucus-800410544.aspx Though Representative Gabrielle Giffords is still recovering from the public shooting in Tucson, Arizona, she has already announced her intent to return to the Congressional Motorcycle Safety Caucus.

The bi partisan group has 11 members who work to advocate the interests of motorcyclists in congress. Giffords co-chaired the group alongside Representative Michael Burgess of Texas during the last congressional session.

Many in the industry are excited about Giffords return to the Caucus and say she has been a powerful voice for the motorcycle community.

"Giffords is a rider herself and has always been enthusiastic about motorcycle safety. We look forward to her continued recovery and return to the House," said Kathleen Van Kleeck, senior vice president of the Motorcycle Industry Council.

In a video posted on YouTube, Giffords promotes Ride To Work Day, which she touted as a chance to showcase the economic and ecological benefits of riding motorcycles as opposed to other methods of transportation. She also mentions the bi partisan initiative to recognize May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month and encourages all motorcyclists to ride carefully and respectfully. Motorcyclists may be able to learn better safety skills by registering for a motorcycle   http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/giffords-to-return-as-co-chair-of-motorcycle-caucus-800410544.aspx Wed, 09 Feb 2011 21:26:19 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/popularity-of-electric-motorcycles-on-the-rise-800410537.aspx Eco-friendly electric motorcycles may soon become a new phenomenon, according to a recent article in the Colorado Daily.

The paper focused on University of Colorado at Boulder researcher, Noah Podolefsky, who has built his own electric motorcycle in an effort to combine the bold social appeal of a motorcycle with the environmental benefits offered by his electric scooter.

Podolefsky is not alone in his desire to cross-breed the "cool" reputation of a motorcycle while minimizing its ecological footprint. Dave Hurst, senior analyst for clean technology company Pike Research, told the paper the demand for this type of bike will continue to increase.

"We're anticipating about 73 percent growth rate annually over the next six years. At the end of 2010 there were about 2,300 electric motorcycles. By 2016 we're expecting that to grow to about 46,800," he told the source.

One of the potential deterrents for purchasing electric motorcycles is they are slightly more expensive than their non-electric counterparts. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/popularity-of-electric-motorcycles-on-the-rise-800410537.aspx Wed, 09 Feb 2011 21:03:47 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/san-antonio-motorcyclist-attacked-bike-stolen-1050-800410535.aspx A San Antonio man was attacked after his motorcycle had a minor collision with a truck, the passenger of which attacked him and stole the bike, according to the San Antonio Express-News.

Police told the news source a man was driving his 2005 Harley Davidson Road King, when he collided with a truck in front of him.

The motorcyclist pulled over at a nearby intersection, when a passenger in the truck jumped out, pointed a gun at him and physically forced him off of his motorcycle. That attacker proceeded to get on the motorcycle and speed off with the truck following behind it.

Police only have a partial description of the suspects and have so far been unable to locate them since they were last spotted.

Motorcycle thefts are not the only risk facing riders. There are a number of other ways that they may encounter harm while using their bikes. To protect themselves and their motorcycles against all forms of injury, riders should make sure they have adequate motorcycle insurance coverage.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/san-antonio-motorcyclist-attacked-bike-stolen-1050-800410535.aspx Wed, 09 Feb 2011 21:01:30 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/two-major-motorcycle-brands-issue-recalls-800410533.aspx Two major motorcycle brands, Harley Davidson and Ducati, have each had to recall thousands of motorcycles due to serious defects found with certain parts, according to Power Sports Business.

Ducati's recall affects 4,000 Multistrada units, which have been found to have defective flange seals on the fuel tank pumps. The improper seals may result in fuel leakage, which has the potential to cause a fire. The OEM is contacting the dealers of the affected model and asking them to replace the O-rings of those with defective seals.

Harley Davidson has recalled 7,000 motorcycles from their 2011 softail line, the source said. The security system kit accessories contain Body Control Modules that may have been improperly sealed when the kits were manufactured. As a result, the water may seep through the seal into the BCM, potentially causing an engine stall. Dealers and owners of the model will be notified by the original equipment manufacturer beginning February 21.

Motorcycle recalls occur fairly often and are essential to make sure bikes are safe for riders. However, sometimes recalls come after a fatality has already occurred. Motorcyclists should always take extensive measures, such as motorcycle insurance, to protect themselves and their bikes.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/two-major-motorcycle-brands-issue-recalls-800410533.aspx Wed, 09 Feb 2011 20:59:29 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/nh-motorcycle-case-remanded-to-county-court-800410532.aspx Though the group New Hampshire Citizens Against Loud Motorcycles (CALM) may potentially have a valid claim against local dealership Seacoast Motorcycles, their case does not belong under federal jurisdiction, according to a recent U.S. District Court ruling.

Judge Landya McCafferty ruled that NH CALM had no grounds to file a federal claim and has remanded the case back to the state's superior court, according to Seacoast Online. The judge has also ordered the group to pay the legal fees that the dealership incurred as a result of the hearing.

The group believed its claim should be under federal jurisdiction because, in their opinion, it dealt with a federal statute limiting motorcycle exhaust noise levels. However, the judge stated the case dealing with the federal statute was a separate matter and since the town was not a party in CALM's federal claim, they had no legal standing, the source says.

The original case, filed by the dealership against the county, concerned an ordinance that would have restricted motorcycle exhaust to a noise level below 80 decibels, much lower than New Hampshire's 106-decibel limit.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/nh-motorcycle-case-remanded-to-county-court-800410532.aspx Wed, 09 Feb 2011 20:57:08 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/honda-selects-its-top-four-motorcycles-to-watch-in-2011-800410529.aspx As 2011 gets underway, Honda has decided to reveal four street bikes from their upcoming spring roll-out they think motorcyclists will love.

The company has announced they are adding updated models of the Sabre, Stateline, Shadow Aero and NT700V, with suggested retail prices ranging from $7,999 to $11,899. These versions boast an array of features including added torque and a classic V-twin engine sound and feel.

Despite the fact that Honda just added these models to their yet-to-be released 43 motorcycle line-up, the company is already looking ahead to next year.

"These 2011 machines will bring considerable depth and variety to our dealer's showrooms this spring, and I'm pleased to say even more good news is in the works as we'll begin to announce 2012 models shortly," said Bill Savino, press manager of Honda's power sports department. 

Anyone thinking about purchasing one of these Honda models should also consider motorcycle insurance, to protect both the bike and themselves if they are involved in an accident.
  http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/honda-selects-its-top-four-motorcycles-to-watch-in-2011-800410529.aspx Wed, 09 Feb 2011 20:51:23 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/electric-motorcycle-could-offer-alternative-to-buying-a-car-800355972.aspx The Zero DS electric motorcycle offers some exciting upsides - and crucial disadvantages - as a futuristic commuter vehicle, according to a report from the Los Angeles Times.

The vehicle's main advantages center around its all-electric propulsion, the paper reports, since the operating costs are lower than those of other commuting options at just a penny per mile. The DS is also quiet and accelerates instantaneously, unlike gasoline-powered rides.

However, the electric motorcycle's cost - nearly $10,000 before a federal rebate is applied - represents a significant barrier to entry, and its low top speed and short range restrict it to a commuting role only, the Times reports. The relatively high seat also makes it uncomfortable to use for shorter riders.

The area in which a commuter lives could be crucial to a decision about the Zero DS, experts say. If a short trip through consistently warm weather is all that's needed, the advanced vehicle might be just the thing. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/electric-motorcycle-could-offer-alternative-to-buying-a-car-800355972.aspx Thu, 20 Jan 2011 16:57:59 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/motorcycle-gloves-essential-to-riding-safety-800355778.aspx Motorcycle gloves do more than just keep rider's hands warm. They could possibly save a rider's life in an accident and should be chosen carefully, according to a press release from Glove Universe.

The company states hands are vulnerable to injury during an accident because people naturally reach forward when they are falling. Therefore, hands may receive the brunt of a violent impact. Though some believe a palm injury is not deadly, it is possible to lose enough blood through the hands to require a transfusion.

Whether riders choose leather or a synthetic material, the company says there are many new motorcycle gloves that provide warmth and protection for the hands without being overly bulky and making the rider's hands feel uncomfortable.

Glove Universe recommends riders select gloves with wrist protection and padding on the hand interior. They should also look for gloves with solid stitching in areas that could absorb impact on the hands, if the rider was in an accident.

Though selecting protective gloves is important, they cannot protect against fatal full-body crashes. Therefore, life insurance is also an important consideration for those who ride motorcycles.   http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/motorcycle-gloves-essential-to-riding-safety-800355778.aspx Thu, 20 Jan 2011 15:18:17 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/bill-to-allow-motorcycle-sales-on-sunday-heading-for-approval-in-new-jersey-800350195.aspx A bill which would allow motorcycle dealerships to operate on Sunday is heading to the desk of New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, the state's Star Ledger newspaper said.

The bill was sponsored by state Senator Donald Norcross of Camden, according to the Star Ledger, who introduced it after a Harley-Davidson dealer complained that potential customers were being driven to neighboring states because of the ban on Sunday sales.

Norcross told the paper the Sunday prohibition didn't make sense.

"Our laws have to reflect the fact that, for many people, motorcycles are [for] recreational purposes. It is only reasonable that our dealers are given the option of opening on Sundays to vie for sales," he said.

Prospective buyers should make sure to purchase motorcycle insurance, experts say, along with considering a safety course to offer peace of mind on the road. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/bill-to-allow-motorcycle-sales-on-sunday-heading-for-approval-in-new-jersey-800350195.aspx Tue, 18 Jan 2011 16:24:16 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/report-grand-rapids-could-see-motorcycle-festival-roll-into-town-800350192.aspx Organizers of River City Bike Week presented their plans for the festival to city commissioners in Grand Rapids, Michigan this month, but there could be opposition, according to local ABC affiliate WZZM.

The central concern, the TV station said, was that local businesses might not realize as much benefit from the festival as organizers hope. Additionally, commissioners were worried that the noise levels caused by the event could be excessive.

However, backers of Bike Week said it would do wonders for the town's economy, allowing vendors to set up shop and bringing events to Grand Rapids' Van Andel Arena, according to WZZM.

Large motorcycle events can pose risks, experts say. In big crowds of bikes, it's more important than ever for riders to use safe driving habits and stay aware of everyone on the road around them. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/report-grand-rapids-could-see-motorcycle-festival-roll-into-town-800350192.aspx Tue, 18 Jan 2011 16:22:57 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/rare-motorcycle-set-for-auction-at-bonhams-800350189.aspx The Megola motorcycle, one of the few radial engine rides ever designed and built, is up for auction February 5 and is expected to go for up to a quarter-million dollars, according to Bonham's.

The Megola - one of around 2,000 produced in Germany between 1921 and 1925, the auction house says - is notable in part because of its rare radial powerplant, whose five cylinders are mounted within the front wheel. The engine displaces 640cc, Bonham's adds.

According to the auction house, historian Erwin Tragatsch says the Megola has a possibly unique place in motorcycle history.

"[It is] probably the most unorthodox motorcycle ever made on a commercial basis." Tragatsch told Bonham's.

Those lucky enough to be able to bid for the Megola should be wary, however, and make sure to familiarize themselves with the ins and outs not only of its operation, but of the motorcycle insurance necessary for such an old and valuable machine. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/rare-motorcycle-set-for-auction-at-bonhams-800350189.aspx Tue, 18 Jan 2011 16:21:39 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/motorcycling-dream-prompts-hard-work-from-massachusetts-teen-800350187.aspx The idea of riding a motorcycle through the streets of Pittsfield, Massachusetts, apparently fascinated local 15-year-old Shaun Pero, who took advantage of heavy snowfall in the region to earn some money clearing driveways and helping to fund his purchase, the Berkshire Eagle said.

In the company of his father Matt, Shaun pushed a snowblower through the parking lot and driveways of Sacred Heart Church in his hometown days after the second massive snowstorm in less than a month struck the area, the paper said.

It still wasn't the worst snowfall he'd ever seen, according to the Eagle.

"From one to 10? I'd probably give it a seven," he said, adding that the tapering-off of snowfall and the lack of high winds made the job easier.

While the snowy weather doubtless provided a great opportunity for Pero to earn cash for his vehicle and its associated motorcycle insurance, he should probably think twice about riding in such weather, experts say. Snowy conditions can be even more dangerous for riders than for normal motorists. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/motorcycling-dream-prompts-hard-work-from-massachusetts-teen-800350187.aspx Tue, 18 Jan 2011 16:18:17 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/motorcycle-maker-to-shift-hq-manufacturing-to-alabama-800350178.aspx A maker of high-end motorcycles previously based in Minnesota said it plans to transfer its headquarters facilities and main workshops to Auburn, Alabama, said the Birmingham News. The move will bring jobs and economic development to the area, the paper added.

Viper CEO John Silseth told the News his company was looking to make the move within months.

"Yep, we really are coming. We are looking at completing the move to Auburn in the second quarter, and you should be seeing the first Alabama-made Viper motorcycles on the roads within 60 days of that," he said.

While the company has recently been posting losses, the newspaper said, the incentives offered by local government in Auburn should help it reverse its financial fortunes.

Regardless of where the vehicles are made, experts say, consumers should be sure their motorcycle insurance policies are up-to-date to protect them from the financial consequences of an accident. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/motorcycle-maker-to-shift-hq-manufacturing-to-alabama-800350178.aspx Tue, 18 Jan 2011 16:15:49 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/craigslist-brings-man-stolen-motorcycle-back-together-800350171.aspx The owner of a stolen motorcycle, who saw his bike for sale on Craigslist, notified police, who on Sunday arrested two men suspected of stealing it, the Glendale News-Press reported.

The motorcycle's owner, noticed damage unique to his ride when he received a response to his inquiry, police told the newspaper. The owner then immediately contacted law enforcement, and officers arranged a meeting with the sellers, later revealed to be Jack Hoogasian and Garabed Koussayan.

The two men were arrested at the scene, according to the newspaper, as police were able to identify the motorcycle from its vehicle identification number despite Hoogasian and Koussayan's efforts to disguise it.

Most owners whose rides are stolen won't be as lucky as the man from Glendale, experts say. It might be worth investing in comprehensive motorcycle insurance coverage to protect one's self financially against such an event. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/craigslist-brings-man-stolen-motorcycle-back-together-800350171.aspx Tue, 18 Jan 2011 16:12:27 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/freezing-weather-no-problem-for-southwestern-idaho-desert-racing-association-800338979.aspx Despite the cold temperatures, motorcyclists can race through western deserts as part of the Southwestern Idaho Desert Racing Association's (SIDRA) new 2011 season, reports the Boise Weekly.

As the season begins, the paper says, SIDRA will offer classes aimed at getting new racers up to speed and broadening participation in the sport, as well as teaching safe driving habits. Each race will have a distinct theme and is sponsored by a different local club, the Weekly adds.

Among the more notable races is the National Hare and Hound race, to be held in March, according to the newspaper, which also points out the event will allow riders to gain national recognition and see some renowned racers strut their stuff.

Before anyone races through the Idaho desert, however, they should make sure their riding skills are up to scratch and their motorcycles are in tip-top shape, experts say. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/freezing-weather-no-problem-for-southwestern-idaho-desert-racing-association-800338979.aspx Wed, 12 Jan 2011 14:35:12 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/victory-motorcycles-hands-out-two-top-shelf-models-to-military-personnel-800338978.aspx A Lance Corporal in the U.S. Marine Corps' 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines is the latest to receive a high-end motorcycle from Victory as part of the company's partnership with Operation Gratitude, according to Clutch and Chrome.
The lucky Marine found the keys to a 2011 Victory Vegas 8-Ball in a care package shipped to him by Operation Gratitude, along with the usual DVDs and letters of appreciation, Clutch and Chrome said. He'll receive the bike itself when his unit returns to Camp Pendleton.

Victory Motorcycles general manager Steve Menneto told the online motorcycle news source his company was lucky to be able to participate.

"The opportunity to partner with Operation Gratitude and donate one of our motorcycles to the organization's 600,000th care package means a lot to our company. We encourage everyone to continue finding ways to thank our troops for all they sacrifice in service to our country," Menneto said.

High-end motorcycles like the Vegas 8-Ball may require an expert rider well-versed in safe driving habits, experts say. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/victory-motorcycles-hands-out-two-top-shelf-models-to-military-personnel-800338978.aspx Wed, 12 Jan 2011 14:33:37 http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/santa-monica-motorcycle-cop-hit-by-motorist-in-weekend-accident-800338976.aspx An unnamed Santa Monica police officer was hit by a car recently as he rode his motorcycle west on the city's Broadway Street, the Santa Monica Mirror reported.

Police spokesman Sergeant Jay Trisler told the newspaper the crash was an accident, and the driver of the car - a Honda Element - was not being charged with a crime, though an investigation was still ongoing.

The officer struck by the car was kept overnight at a local hospital, but his injuries were slight enough to allow him to be released the next day, according to the Mirror. Trisler told the paper the victim was going to take some time off, but would soon be back on the job.

In a collision between a car and a motorcycle, it's rarely the car which gets the worst of it, experts say. Motorcyclists need to scrupulously follow safe driving habits and stay alert. http://www.allstate.com/insurance-industry-news/motorcycle-insurance-news/santa-monica-motorcycle-cop-hit-by-motorist-in-weekend-accident-800338976.aspx Wed, 12 Jan 2011 14:31:45