Tag Archives: Motorcycle

The 13 Motorcyclists You’ll Meet

Over the years that I’ve been riding motorcycles, the topic of segmentation and polarity comes up frequently in conversation. Cruiser people versus sportbike people versus commuters; greybeards and teenage fools… The longer I ride, despite the discussion about tribalism, I … Continue reading

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Harley Sportster Project: Adventure Tourer Planning

For folks not following on Instagram, I brought home a new (to me) motorcycle a couple of weeks ago. “Charlotte” is a 2006 Harley-Davidson Sportster 883 Custom with about 9,000 miles on the clock. For anyone that followed the Dirtster … Continue reading

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Posted in Bikes | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

Triumph Scrambler Project: Stage 4 Upgrades

Somewhere in late 2020, I started writing this update on the status of Rosie the Scrambler and it “got lost in the move”. At any rate, a buddy of mine asked me the other day if I planned on posting something that covered all the stuff I’ve done to the Scrambler since I’ve had it. As I’m publishing a library of “scrammy knowledge” here on the blog, it seemed fitting to post that update here first. Continue reading

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Posted in Bikes | Tagged , , , , , , | 4 Comments

What’s a Dual-Sport Motorcycle? Part 2

In the previous edition of “What is a Dual-Sport Motorcycle?”, I outlined some ground rules and essentially drew a circle around the bikes I feel fit squarely in the segment. While talking to motorcyclists that are considering the purchase of a new dual-sport, I find that many are still unfamiliar with the breadth of models available, moreover the divide in both cost and capability between the bikes at both extremes of the range. 

With that in mind, I want to describe the various sub-categories of dual-sport motorcycles in more detail. I also want to highlight some of the models available from rarer brands. If you have the patience, I’m gonna take a deep dive into the specifications of various models. Lastly, I think there’s a demand for a motorcycle squarely in the middle of the segment that I don’t think currently exists from any of the manufacturers. Continue reading

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Posted in Bikes | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

Racing Dirtbikes: Reflections on Cross-Country Racing

failure is an experience we want to avoid. Wearing mismatched socks, getting toilet paper stuck to your shoes, and dumping your motorcycle in the parking lot tend to induce feelings of embarrassment. Unfortunately, that aspect of human nature can also prevent us from taking risks; which in turn tends to prevent us from experiencing life’s greatest “highs”. Continue reading

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What’s a Dual-Sport Motorcycle?

You’ve probably heard the expressions “enduro” or “Street & Trail” in the past, but today I suspect most folks use the word “dual-sport” to describe a motorcycle that’s intended for use both on and off the pavement. On and off-road … Continue reading

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Posted in Bikes | Tagged , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Shinko Off-road Tires: Longterm Review

At the beginning of this year, I contacted Shinko Tires about their off-road offerings. Since I had plans to compete all season in Kentucky Cross-Country Racing (KXCR), Shinko sent me 3 tires to test. Full disclosure, Shinko didn’t ask me … Continue reading

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Posted in Reviews | Tagged , , , , | 7 Comments

Dirt Bike Tales: First Half of KXCR 2021

“Pain, anguish, adversity, struggle, exhaustion, defeat, financial stress, maintenance nightmares… growth, adventure, challenges, community, accomplishment, satisfaction.” Something I wrote on Instagram a few days ago. Since my departure from the military, I’ve never had such a passion for something, nor … Continue reading

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Posted in Events & Rides | Tagged , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

Hare Scrambling 101: Your First Cross-Country Race

So you bought a dirt bike after some nagging from your riding buddies? You’ve noticed photos on Instagram of your friends crossing logs and splashing through the mud with numbers on their helmets. Suddenly you’re feeling more and more curious … Continue reading

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Harley-Davidson Is Doing It Wrong

In recent days Harley-Davidson has trickled out more information about their new “Hard Wire” plan. While there is a lot that goes into this, including information consumers aren’t privy to, the plan in general sounds like “cut expenses, maximize margins, … Continue reading

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Posted in Opinion | Tagged , , | 15 Comments