Motorcycles, with their sleek designs and powerful engines, are not just a mode of transportation but a lifestyle choice for many. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or a novice enthusiast, maintaining your motorcycle is crucial to ensure it not only looks good but also runs smoothly. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the importance of keeping your motorcycle clean, especially during the winter months, and discuss essential practices like protecting your bike from salt and maintaining the battery with a trickle charger.

1. Preserving Aesthetics:
Riding a clean motorcycle not only boosts your pride but also preserves the aesthetics of your beloved two-wheeler. Regular washing helps prevent dirt, grime, and road salt from accumulating on the exterior, maintaining the paint job and preventing corrosion.

2. Winter Woes:
Winter can be harsh on motorcycles, particularly with the liberal use of salt on icy roads. Salt is corrosive and can lead to rust, potentially causing long-term damage to your bike’s components. To combat this, it’s essential to wash your motorcycle regularly during the winter months, paying extra attention to the undercarriage and hidden areas where salt may accumulate.

3. Protecting the Finish:
The paint and chrome finishes on a motorcycle are more than just for show—they serve as a protective layer against the elements. Regular cleaning and waxing not only keep your bike looking shiny but also create a barrier that shields it from the effects of sun, rain, and snow.

4. Battery Health:
Your motorcycle’s battery is a critical component that requires attention, especially during periods of inactivity. In winter, when bikes may spend more time in storage, using a trickle charger can prevent the battery from losing its charge. This small investment can extend the lifespan of your battery and ensure your motorcycle starts up effortlessly when you’re ready to hit the road.

5. The Trickle Charger Advantage:
Trickle chargers, also known as battery maintainers, provide a low, steady charge to the battery, preventing it from discharging completely during extended periods of inactivity. This is particularly beneficial in winter when cold temperatures can contribute to battery drain. Connecting a trickle charger is a simple and effective way to keep your motorcycle’s battery in peak condition.

To Summarise:

In the world of motorcycle enthusiasts, a clean bike is not just a matter of vanity—it’s a testament to your commitment to the longevity and performance of your machine. Regular cleaning, especially during winter, and the use of a trickle charger for the battery are practical steps that every rider can take to ensure their motorcycle remains in top-notch condition. So, invest a little time and effort in the upkeep of your ride, and you’ll be rewarded with a motorcycle that not only looks great but performs at its best when you’re out on the open road.

Mar-Train Yamaha has initiated its preparations for the upcoming 2024 British Superbike Championship season by unveiling its new livery and announcing McAMS as the team’s latest title sponsor.

In the forthcoming 2024 season, Mar-Train Yamaha is set to embark on a fresh chapter, with 2015 Moto3 World Champion Danny Kent taking on the role of the rider. This new venture is accompanied by full title sponsorship from McAMS, a prominent brand in the BSB arena. McAMS has a history of sustained success, notably backing the Raceways Yamaha team and contributing to their 2021 BSB title with Tarran Mackenzie.

Following Raceways’ departure from BSB, McAMS is set to throw its support behind Mar-Train Yamaha for the 2024 season.

Expressing his enthusiasm for the collaboration, the spokesperson for McAMS Racing stated, “I am really excited to be launching the new-look McAMS Racing team. We were keen to continue in BSB for 2024, but it had to be with the right people as we’ve had such an incredible journey over the last seven years with McAMS Yamaha.”

Highlighting the importance of finding the right partners, the spokesperson added, “From the moment we first started discussions, it became clear that Tim and Sonya could provide us with that opportunity in another close-knit, family-run team.”

Acknowledging the capabilities of the Yamaha bike and the valuable addition of Chris Anderson from McAMS Yamaha to the team, the spokesperson expressed confidence in the partnership. “We know what the bike is capable of, and it’s great to have Chris Anderson from McAMS Yamaha in the team too.”

The spokesperson concluded with optimism, stating, “Not only is Danny a World Champion, but he also really impressed us last year with his own team, so we are hopeful of this being a very successful partnership.”

Though it might appear unusual, there are motorcycles available for riding with just your car license if you meet the eligibility criteria. The process of transitioning from four wheels to a two-wheeled machine is outlined in this blog, elucidating how you can utilize your driving license to operate a motorcycle. Although we use the term “motorcycle” all 50cc machines are legally classed as “mopeds”, whether they are scooter style or motorcycle style mopeds.

Do all car license holders have this privilege?

Not every individual holding a driving license is automatically eligible to ride a motorbike. Eligibility is contingent on the date of passing the driving test. In certain cases, completing a Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) course may be a prerequisite before motorcycle riding is permitted.

For those who obtained their driving license before February 1, 2001, they possess the legal entitlement to ride a moped up to 50cc without requiring L plates or undergoing a CBT test. A Category P on the license signifies this privilege. However, if one desires to ride a moped or motorcycle with a larger engine, undertaking the CBT test becomes necessary.

On the other hand, individuals who passed their driving test on or after February 1, 2001, must successfully complete the CBT before legally being able to ride any type of motorbike or moped.

What sort of machines can I ride on my car license?

The primary consideration when selecting a motorcycle for use with a car driving license is its engine capacity. According to the government website, if you passed your driving test prior to February 1, 2001, you can operate a moped up to 50cc without the need for L plates or a moped test. It is crucial that the chosen bike also has a maximum speed of 50 km/h.

Opting for this type of motorcycle comes with a significant advantage – cost-effectiveness. These bikes are more affordable compared to their more powerful counterparts, making them a financially viable option.

What exactly is a CBT and how much does it cost?

CBT, which stands for Compulsory Basic Training, is commonly misconstrued as a test, but it’s important to note that it is not a pass-or-fail examination. The CBT course is designed to provide beginners with fundamental skills necessary for safe and proficient motorcycle riding on UK roads.

Typically achievable within a single day, the CBT imparts essential knowledge and practical skills. However, if your instructor deems it necessary for you to undergo additional training to meet the minimum standard, you may be required to complete extra sessions.

The CBT consists of five crucial elements, and progression to the next stage is contingent on your instructor’s assurance that you have comprehended each element and exhibited the requisite skills. The cost of the course typically ranges between £135 and £150, depending on your chosen training provider and geographic location within the country. The five-part CBT course includes:

1. Introduction and sight checks
2. Training onsite
3. Riding on site
4. On-road training
5. On-road riding

Upon successfully finishing your CBT, you can initiate the process of obtaining a motorcycle license.

Expiry of the CBT certificate.

The validity of your CBT lasts for a period of two years. In practical terms, this implies that if you don’t progress to obtaining a motorbike license within two years of completing your CBT, you will need to retake the course to maintain legal authorization for riding on public roads.