PDF Version

Join our Mailing List
Follow us on:
The Motorcycle Gadgets Newsletter is a quarterly report of what’s new at MG, the
latest in the gadget industry, our take on useful motorcycle news, and much more...
The Garage
What’s New at MG
We would like to thank all our customers that visited us at the New York and Chicago
International Motorcycle Shows; nothing like talking about motorcycles in the winter to
give you spring fever. Fortunately for us in the Northeast, the winter was mild and
spring has arrived early. We are getting our bikes ready to ride (read about our
detailing products below) and searching for the latest products to test and offer.
A recently introduced gadget that has been very well
received is the RAM X-Grip™ Universal Holder. The X-Grip
is RAM Mount’s solution to today’s ever growing cell phone
and GPS market.
Continued on Page 7
Spring Detailing: Spring has arrived in the Northeast and
it’s time to wipe down the bike; nothing like spending quality
time with your motorcycle by polishing it up for your spring
ride. At MG, we have created a detailing product perfect for
the job. Our Plastix detailing kit is up for the task.
Tire Care
Newsletter Spotlight
Motorcycle Review:
Triumph Sprint GT Gadget Ready
RAM X-Grip Holder
Helmets: What You
Should Know
Continued on Page 7
Customer Feedback and Requests
The Latest in Motorcycle Alarms
The following article provides a background on today’s alarms and highlights some of the
features available.
Motorcycle alarms are a good investment and can provide the peace of mind you need
to know your bike is safe. From parking your bike at home in your garage to parking
your bike overnight at the hotel, a good motorcycle alarm can alert you immediately
and can prevent tampering with your bike and deter a would-be thief.
Gorilla Cycle Alarm
Some motorcycle manufacturers now offer alarm
systems as standard (or optional) equipment on
some new bikes, but the majority of today’s
motorcycles have no protection other than a
steering lock. Other manufacturers have added
security features to the ignition that requires the
key to be close to enable the ignition; but that just
prevents a thief from starting the engine.
Improvements in anti-theft technology have made
today’s motorcycle alarms affordable and easy to
install and use. This article explores the most
common feature of today’s alarms.
Motorcycle News - A few articles of
interest
Next Addition
Motorcycle Review: BMW K1300S
Product Spotlight: Bike-to-Bike
Communication
The Garage: Power Outlet Installation
Questions or comments?
Email us at:
[email protected]
or call 866-BUY-MG4U
Continued on Page 8
Motorcycle Gadgets LLC is an online retailer, specializing in unique gadgets and accessories for motorcycles.
We respect your right to privacy and do not sell or distribute customer e-mails.
If you wish to be removed from our mailing list, please notify us at: [email protected]
All correspondence, please send to:
Motorcycle Gadgets LLC
P.O. Box 4139 — Leesburg, Virginia 20177
Tire Care: Simple Steps to Maintain your Tires
Tire care is one of the easiest and probably the most important maintenance items to perform on your bike. It goes without saying; take
care of the tires that you ride on and they will take care of you. The following answers some basic tire care questions and highlights some
simple rules to follow.
Factors that Impact the Life of a Tire

Over/Under Inflation: Improper air pressure can result in problems with
both performance and wear. Riding on tires that are over or under inflated
can also be dangerous. Under inflated tires will build excessive heat and
can lead to a blow-out. Over Inflation can weaken the tires seal with the
rim and cause a blow-out.

Severe Impact: Bad road conditions or running into rigid surfaces can
result in cuts, cracks, splits or bruises in the tread and sidewall areas.

Chemicals: Gasoline and oil products can result in contamination of the rubber compound over time. Cleaners such, as Armor All can
degrade the rubber and speed up cracking as well. Soap and water is always the best cleaner to use on tires.
What you Need to Know
Quality Tire Gauges
1. Always check your tires pressure BEFORE riding – Your tire’s recommended air
pressure is for cold tire inflation. After riding, the tire heats up and the pressure in the tire
will be greater. Always use a quality digital tire gauge to get the best measurement.
2. Know your tires pressure level and load limits – Refer to your motorcycle’s manual
for recommended tire pressure for normal and heavy loads. Most motorcycles have
different pressure ratings for front and rear tires, and loads over 200lbs and 2
passengers.
offered by Motorcycle Gadgets
Lighted Tire Gauge
3. Inspect your tires – Check for any imbedded objects, bulging or excessive wear.
4. Secure the valve stem cap – The cap seals the valve stem and prevents leaks. At
higher speeds, centrifugal force can open the valve inside the stem causing leaks.
5. Be prepared for roadside repairs – Repair kits can get you back on the road quickly
and portable air compressors are small enough to fit under some seats or in a tank bag.
Mini Digital Tire Gauge
Remembering these basic tire care facts can prolong the life of your tires and provide the best riding experience. And remember, “The most
important thing riding on your tires is YOU”; quoting the Michelin Man.
Portable Roadside Repair Products
Mini Air Compressor
Measures 4” x 2” x 6”
Weight: 14 oz.
Pocket Tire Repair Kit
Measures 7.5" x 3.5" x 1"
Weighs: 12 oz.
Return to Cover Page
Triumph Sprint GT - Gadget Ready
First introduced in 2011, the Sprint GT (Grand Touring) is the next
generation of the Triumph Sprint ST (Sport Touring). The Sprint GT is a
refined sport touring motorcycle that delivers on performance while
providing the touring features you need for longer trips. The motorcycle
delivers the classic look you see in many sport bikes and comes
standard with features you expect in a touring bike; most notably the
saddlebags. The fairing is well designed and is sculpted around the
engine with the turn signals moved from the fairing to the mirrors. The
front fairing has a distinctive look with 3 halogen headlights and a
sporty, low profile windscreen.
2011 Triumph Sprint GT
Photos by Triumph Motorcycles Inc.
After spending some time with the Sprint GT, you will conclude that the bike falls more in the
sport category than the touring category. As with many sport bikes, there are few extras.
Absent are the heated grips, cruise control, adjustable windscreen and other features most
required for a touring motorcycle. The Spring GT is capable of becoming the touring vehicle
many riders want. Present is the power required for long distances. What is needed are a few
accessories and gadgets, hence the title “Gadget Ready”.
Performance
The Sprint GT borrows the same 1050cc inline 3cylinder engine found in Triumph’s Speed Triple
sport motorcycle. The fuel injected engine puts
out 128hp at 9200rpms. The Sprint GT is
improved over the ST with smoother throttle
response, more power and torque and improved
fuel consumption. The bike is a little on the heavy
side, weighing in at 583lbs with a full 5.3 gallons
of fuel.
Features
Those familiar with the previous models will immediately notice the change from the under seat exhaust to the side exhaust. This
change was notably made to improve the passenger comfort. The Sprint GT features a sporty single swing arm that keeps the exhaust
tucked away tight against the bike. As with previous models, anti-lock breaks are standard and is welcome with a bike this heavy. A
feature seen on most motorcycles in this class but missing on the Sprint GT is the shaft drive. A blessing or curse depending on which
side of the fence you are on. The chain provides the feel of a sport bike engagement, but requires the constant cleaning and adjustment
for those use to the maintenance free advantage of the shaft drive.
The most notable touring feature is the standard-equipment saddlebags that hold a
large 31 liters and are big enough to hold even the largest helmet. The aluminum rack
is also standard, and comes pre-wired to accept an optional 55-liter top box. The top
box features an internal mounted 12-volt power socket.
The dash features two analog (tach. and speedometer) and one digital gauge with a
digital clock, fuel gauge and trip computer. The trip computer, operated by the 3 buttons
below the tachometer, offers average and instantaneous fuel consumption, range, trip
distance, average and maximum speed.
Accessories
Triumph, unlike other motorcycle manufactures, offer a variety of accessories from the top box to a first aid kit. Some accessories worth
investing in would be the higher windscreen, comfort gel seat and of course the top box. These accessories truly transform the Sprint
GT from a pure sports bike to the sport touring bike it is intended to be. As with most manufacturer accessories, there is a high price for
most accessories. The top box with all the necessary components will cost you $700. The Triumph toolkit, manufactured by Cruz Tools,
is actually the Cruz EconoKit M2 with a Triumph logo. At a cost of $59.95, you may want to consider the same toolkit at $20 less.
Return to Cover Page
Continued on the next page...
Triumph Sprint GT (cont.)
Summary
Triumph advertises this bike as, “Equally capable of crossing continents or taking on a track
day”. That should be the motto for all sport touring motorcycles in our opinion. The Sprint GT
aspires to be that. A day on the track, yes. This is definitely a sports bike that can handle the
twisties and has the power for the track. The touring aspect needs a little help. With added
accessories and a few must have gadgets, the Sprint GT lives up to this motto.
The overall cost of ownership is lower than most motorcycles in this class. The base price is
$13,399 which is thousands less than other sport touring motorcycles. This price includes
everything but the accessories, which can be pricey as most manufacturer accessories can be.
As for gadgets, there is nothing out of the box; so consider it gadget ready.
Complete Bike Specifications
2011 Triumph Sprint GT
Photo by Triumph Motorcycles Inc.
Additional Triumph Sprint GT Resources:
Official Triumph Sprint GT website - http://www.triumphmotorcycles.com/motorcycles/range/touring/sprint
Complete List of Sprint GT Accessories - http://www.triumphmotorcycles.com/accessories/create-my-triumph
Triumph Motorcycle History - http://www.triumphnapress.com/History.aspx
Triumph Sprint Forum - http://www.triumphrat.net/sprint-forum
Return to Cover Page
What You Should Know About Helmets
Why wear a Helmet?
In the United States, it is proven that helmets reduce the risk of head injury by 62%. According to the Highway safety organization, US
motorcycle fatalities tallied 4,376 in 2010, of which 42% were not wearing helmets. Currently in the US, only 20 states, plus the District of
Columbia, have universal motorcycle helmet laws that require all motorcyclists to wear helmets. Some people believe that wearing a helmet
is an intrusion on freedom. Unfortunately, there can be a cost for that freedom and it isn't free.
At Motorcycle Gadgets, we wear our helmets for more than the obvious reason of safety. With today's technology, motorcycle helmet
devices have evolved, providing riders with better options for helmets such as hands-free communication and entertainment using a
number of different interfaces. Nothing beats riding your motorcycle while intermittently being able to talk to you fellow riders, listen to your
favorite tunes and receive directions from your Navigation unit in a completely safe way.
If you live or are ride in a "no helmet law" state, you may choose to take the risk of riding with no helmet. At MG, we believe that wearing a
helmet increases the chance of survival in the event of a motorcycle accident and can enhance the riding experience, plus we don't care
about messing up our hair.
Choosing the Right Helmet
Whether you are a beginner or experienced rider, choosing the proper motorcycle helmet is one of the most important choices you can
make when buying motorcycle gear. At Motorcycle Gadgets, we wear full face helmets. However, each type of helmet has its advantages
and disadvantages, and the one you prefer will likely depend upon many factors such as safety, comfort, appearance and cost. There are
five basic types of helmets intended for motorcycling. All five are secured by a chin strap, and their protective benefits are greatly reduced,
if not eliminated, if the chin strap is not securely fastened so as to maintain a snug fit.
The Full Face helmet
covers the entire head
and offers the most
protection of any other
helmet.
The Open Face helmet
provides better visibility
than an full face helmet
but lacks the protection
of a lower chin bar.
The Modular helmet
combines the safety
of a full face helmet
and convenience of
an open face while
not actively riding.
The Half helmet is similar
to an open face helmet
but has no lower back.
This helmet provides the
minimum coverage generally allowed by law.
The Motocross helmet
covers the entire head
and has an elongated
chin bar which allows for
the flow of air during the
physical exertion of this
type of riding.
Helmet Safety Standards
There are two organizations that set safety standards for motorcycle helmets in the United States, the Federal
Government's Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Snell Memorial Foundation. To meet legal
requirements for those states that have a mandatory motorcycle helmet law, all motorcycle helmets must
meet the DOT standard, a minimum safety standard set by the DOT. Any helmet meeting this standard is
required to feature a DOT sticker.
The SNELL Memorial Foundation is a private not-for-profit organization that sets voluntary standards for motorcycle helmets, bicycle
helmets and auto racing helmets, etc. Snell Standards are the world's toughest. Manufacturers are required to put a Snell serialized label
inside each of their Snell certified helmets by the Licensing Agreement.
Selecting the Proper Helmet Size
The first step in selecting the right helmet is choosing the proper size. Start by measuring the circumference of your
head about 1 inch above the eyebrow with a cloth tape measure. If you don't have a cloth tape measure, use a piece of
string instead and then measure the string against a ruler. Once you have the measurement, select the helmet select
size that corresponds most closely to your head size on the manufacturer sizing chart. If you fall between two helmet
sizes, try on the larger helmet first and then the smaller size. Keep in mind that manufacturers do not use the same
standard for sizing. Each company has its own idea about shape and fit, so be sure to try on a comparable helmet
before you pull the trigger on a purchase, even if it’s a good deal online.
Return to Cover Page
Continued on the Next Page
Trying on a Helmet
When trying on a helmet, it should go
on with some resistance. Simply hold
the helmet upside down and place your
thumbs on the inside of the chin
straps. Next, spread both sides of the
helmet apart and slowly slip it over your
head while pulling down on the chin
straps. The helmet should fit snugly
but not to the point of cutting off your
blood circulation.
Once the helmet is on, securely
fasten the chin strap by passing
the strap through the center of both
rings. Then separate the rings,
and pass the strap back between
both rings and pull comfortably
tight without causing discomfort or
choking. In order for your helmet
to function properly, the chinstrap
must always be securely fastened
while in use.
Choosing the Right Helmet Fit
With the chin strap still securely fastened and your
head locked straight, grab the sides of the helmet
or chin bar firmly and try to move the helmet from
side to side and up and down. If the helmet slides
on your skin or head, or feels like you can pull it off
when you roll it forward and backward, it is too
large. Proper fit means that the helmet is snug
enough to move your skin when you try to move
the helmet on your head.
Once you find the right fit, make sure the crown
padding on the inside of the helmet is flush against
the top of your head. There should be moderate
contact between your cheeks and the helmets
cheek pads. If there is excessive pressure on the
cheeks, consider different sized cheek pads.
Equally as important, be sure that the back of the neck roll does not push the helmet forward when looking up. This could cause the helmet
to roll down over your eyes in a forward leaning position. If you wear glasses while riding, make sure the helmet fits properly over and
around them. Finally, remove the helmet and check for any red spots on your forehead. Pressure points can be uncomfortable and can
cause a headache after a long ride, so you may want to choose a larger size or different manufacturer as every head and helmet are not the
same.
Accessorizing your helmet
There are other advantages to wearing a helmet other than safety such as adding accessories and unique gadgets. At Motorcycle Gadgets,
our vision is to do for riders what we want done for ourselves, offer unique products at affordable prices online. We don’t sell products that
we don’t believe in. Most importantly, we are dedicated to providing honest and professional service to our customers.
Moto-Hanger: Protect your helmet or tank bag
from dirty floors and thieves by hanging it next to
you on the edge of a table or flat surface with the
Moto-Hanger™. Engineered to hold up to 15lbs.,
the Moto-Hanger is a is a light-weight foldable disc
that is strong enough to hang most of your light
riding gear, small enough to carry in your pocket
and makes a great conversation piece. Each Moto
-Hanger includes a black velvet storage pouch and
a rugged gift box. The Moto-Hanger is a practical
gadget that should be part of every rider’s arsenal.
Chatterbox: Chatterbox™ is the world's
X1 Slim features:
acknowledged market leader in bike to bike
communication systems for motorcycles. The
products provide the most powerful, feature-rich
intercom devices available on the market. The
XBi2 model is the smallest unit that we have
tested and is ideal for riders in smaller groups of
up to 3 people. The X1 Slim provides industry
leading 5 mile range and is capable of
communicating among an unlimited amount of
riders over 22 channels.
▪ Maximum range of 5 miles
▪ Communication among unlimited riders
▪ Hands-free voice activation
▪ Push to talk capability
▪ Rider to passenger communication
▪ Make and Answer phone calls
▪ Listen to music & GPS wirelessly
▪ FM Radio with 10 preset channels
▪ Multi-function Hi-Fi noise suppression headset
▪ True Hi-Fi stereo speakers
▪ 8 hours of talk time and 20 hours of standby
Return to Cover Page
-sam k. 03/25/12
What’s New at MG (cont.)
RAM X-Grip
The RAM X-Grip™ is a compact, universal mount for your cell phone, GPS navigation, iPod or
other device that doesn't have that cookie cutter shape. The X-Grip is the perfect solution for
holding today's larger cell phones and iPhones with protective covers. The spring loaded holder
expands and contracts for the perfect fit of your device. The X-Grip has a clean and clever four
leg design that provides extreme holding power without interfering with your devices power
ports and controls. Made of high strength composite material with rubber tips; once attached,
your device is safe from vibration and heavy impact.
As with all RAM products, the X-Grip is compatible and
interchangeable with a wide variety of mounting
options. Whether you want to mount your device to you
handlebars (shown at right), fork stem, brake fluid
reservoir, or multiple other areas, RAM has a product
for your mounting needs. At Motorcycle Gadgets, we
use and recommend RAM Mounts for that very reason;
versatility.
To read more about the RAM X-Grip and to view our
easy mounting guide, visit our RAM Mounts Page.
Spring Detailing
Odds are your bike collected some dust over the winter and some of the
dirt and dead bugs left on from last Fall have solidified like glue. You
spend a lot of money on your bike and accessories, so don’t just clean it
with household cleaning products. Motorcycle windscreens, fairings,
panniers, instrument panels, and other bike parts can be easily scratched
or be dulled if not cleaned with the proper products. At Motorcycle
Gadgets, we created the ideal detailing kit for cleaning and polishing your
motorcycle; safely and effectively. Our Plastix Detailing Kit contains two
bottles of our Plastix cleaner, a plastic mini-scraper, and the highest
quality micro-fiber towel.
Plastix
Plastix is a one-step plastic, glass and shiny metal solvent that is specifically formulated to clean
motorcycle surfaces that can be easily damaged or scratched. When applied with our quality
microfiber towel, Plastix provides a clean, scratch free, high-gloss finish that protects the bike
surfaces from dirt, harsh road chemicals, and scratches. Plastix is safe, non-toxic and
contains no alcohol or ammonia. The detailing kit comes with a 4 oz. bottle, for the garage, and a 1
oz. bottle to carry with you for the road. The 1 oz. bottle can be refilled and costs significantly less
than other plastic cleaners on the market.
Plastic Mini-Scrapper
For the stubborn bugs and dirt, or removal of stickers, the plastic mini-scrapper is the ideal
tool. The plastic mini-scrapper provides the same edge as a metal blade, but will not
scratch the surface. Each scrapper comes with 2 plastic blades.
To read more about our motorcycle cleaning products, visit our Cleaning Products Page.
Return to Cover Page
The Latest in Motorcycle Alarms (cont.)
It goes without saying that the most important feature of a motorcycle alarm is a very loud siren. Most alarms on the market today are a loud
120-130 decibel; the louder the better. Other common features to look for in today’s motorcycle alarms are:
Shock Sensor – The most common and probably the most important feature; the shock sensor activates the alarm when
the motorcycle is disturbed. Most alarms provide an adjustable sensitivity level.
Tilt Sensor – Used in conjunction with or in place of the shock sensor, the tilt sensor activates the alarm when bike is stood
upright from its side stand.
Power Sensor- This features activates the alarm when there is a drop in the motorcycle power, which would be common
when the electrical system is being tampered with in order to disable the alarm.
Ignition Cutoff – This feature cuts power to the ignition preventing the motorcycle from being started. Special wiring is
typically required to identify the ignition wires for installation.
Paging – When out of range to hear the alarm, the paging feature wirelessly alerts you that your alarm has been activated.
Typical range is up to 1/2 mile.
GPS – Alarms with the GPS feature give you a chance to track and potentially recover your motorcycle after it is gone. This
feature is typically more expensive and sometimes requires a subscription to a recovery service.
Other items to consider when purchasing an alarm are: Does the alarm come with multiple remotes in case you lose a remote? Is the
siren and main electronics waterproof? And, How easy is it to install? Many of today’s alarms come as a self-contained unit that should
be fairly straightforward to install under the seat or other concealed area and should be waterproof.
Is a Motorcycle Alarm right for your Motorcycle? Today’s
alarms work on all makes and models of motorcycles. Most
motorcycles are not alarmed, and thieves know that. A good
alarm can protect your investment. With many alarms under $100,
can you afford not to?
Other Security Recommendations:
Don’t advertise your bike – Park it in a garage or out of plain
view. In some cases, plain view may be best. When we
travel at Motorcycle Gadgets, we always ask the hotel if we
can park our bikes at the entrance under the carport so
that the hotel security can watch our bikes.
Cover your bike – A motorcycle cover
is a deterrent and keeps people
from squatting on your bike. A
cover alarm provides added
security and alerts you when
someone removes the cover.
Grenade Cover Alarm
Reinforce your garage - Don't confuse
a garage-door opener with a lock. A
lot of motorcycles are stolen right out
of the garage. Consider arming your
garage as you would your house with
a Zone Alarm.
Xena Zone Alarm
Carry Insurance – When all else fails, insurance can replace
the wheels (but not the memories). If the cost is too high to
add theft to your insurance policy, consider adding the
coverage just for long trips.
Return to Cover Page
Customer Feedback and Requests
Chatterbox DUO – We have received a number of inquiries regarding availability of the new
Chatterbox DUO. The new DUO is expected to be available by the first week in April. The DUO
is Chatterbox’s latest low-cost communication device for rider/passenger or a single rider.
Replacing the XBi, the DUO offers an extended range and advanced features to include
Bluetooth remote control. The remote control feature allows you to control your Bluetooth
devices wirelessly, keeping your attention on the road when riding.
Chatterbox DUO
We are accepting pre-orders on our website at: CHATTERBOX DUO. The price is the lowest
allowable resale price of $119.95. All pre-orders come with a $10 Motorcycle Gadgets Gift Certificate
towards your next purchase.
Flat Rate Shipping: Everything Ships for one low Price – We have had a number of inquiries
on what the cost of shipping is for multiple items. Our flat rate policy is simple: everything ships
for one low price. We have recently reduced our flat rate shipping cost from $5.95 to $4.95 due to
overall lower shipping costs. The advantage of flat rate shipping is you don’t have to worry about
the rising cost of shipping as you add products to your cart; OR have to buy stuff you don’t
necessarily need to make a $100 minimum for free shipping. At MG, our goal is to provide the
best prices on the best products and we don’t believe shipping costs should be a factor in your
purchase.
Motorcycle News
A few articles of interest we discovered while researching new products and accessories.
Need or Greed? The Case for Multiple Bike Ownership - Pros and Cons of multiple bike ownership
Article link: RoadRUNNER Motorcycle Touring & Travel
Virginia Law bars Motorcycle Only Checkpoints - May be coming to a state near you
Article link: American Motorcyclist Association
Motorcycle Customer Satisfaction on the Rise - JD Power
reports customers more satisfied with motorcycle purchase,
quality, and accessories
Article link: AllAboutBikes.com
Ten Things All Car & Truck Drivers Should Know About Motorcycles - Good tips to send to your non-motorcycle rider friends
Article link: MotorcycleSafetyNews.com
Motorcycle Gadgets LLC, operating as Motorcycle-Gadgets.com with a short name of Motogads.com,
is an online retailer specializing in unique gadgets and accessories for both the casual and serious motorcycle rider.
The company strives to provide an exceptional customer service experience and unique product reviews and recommendations.
All correspondence, please send to:
Motorcycle Gadgets LLC
P.O. Box 4139 — Leesburg, Virginia 20177
We respect your right to privacy - If you received this as an e-mail in error or wish to be removed from our
mailing list, please notify us at: [email protected]
Return to Cover Page