May 30, 2008

25 Top Tips To Do Before Going Offroad (Part.2)

7.Pack a roll of toilet paper in a zip-top plastic bag and put it behind the sear right now. I promise you that someday you’ll thank yourself

8.Pack a fully charged cell phone and car adapter, if you have one. You’d be amazed where you may find a signal. You may have to climb a tree or hike to the top of the ridge, but that could mean the difference between spending the night in you own bed or your rig.

9.If you have a GPS, don’t forget it! If you don’t buy one. There are reasonably inexpensive, hand-held units that are easy to operate. This could be the best money you ever spend, should a real emergency arise. Bring spare batteries in a zip-top baggie and a car adapter, if so equipped.

10.If you can, get a pair of handheld family radio service (FRS) walkie-talkies. Just like the GPS, they are common today and are reasonably inexpensive. In case you need to temporarily split up the party: (in search of a cell signal, for instance) you do no want to be out of touch, even if you are out of sight. And don’t separate beyond the range.

11.Bring something to eat and drink. Even if it’s only a short trip, bring something. Sports drinks, bottled water, energy bars, and dried fruit are good ideas. Items that don’t need to be refrigerated are best. Avoid salty foods, unless you have lot’s to drink. If things go awry, it’s easier to think clearly if you have a little something in you stomach. And never travel without a cooler, even if space is at a premium.

12.Fill the gas tank on every trip. It’s amazing how many people forget to do this. Always remember the One-Third/Two-Third Rule: Only use one-third of a tank to get where you are going and save two-thirds for getting out, unless you know there’s fuel at your destination. If you fuel tank doesn’t have the capacity, carry extra fuel or re-think your route.

13.Always carry your extra fuel outside the vehicle. Fuel containers have vents, and not only are gasoline fumes explosive, they are toxic

14.Step up and buy good jumper cables with heavy-gauge wire and quality connectors.

15.Bring a tow strap.

May 26, 2008

25 Top Tips To Do Before Going Offroad (Part.1)

1.Check all your fluids -coolant/anit-freeze, oil, windshield washer fluid, brake fluid, ATF, differentials, etc. Make sure there are no leaks, everything is at the proper level, and carry extra fluids just in case. Also, this should go without saying, but we’ll say it anyway: If you know of any mechanical or electrical problems with your rig, repair them first. There’s no excuse for off-roading with a worn U-joint or an intermittent short in the ignition. By the way, check you air filer, too.

2.Check your shock absorbers for signs of leakage or damage.

3.Check you tires for pressures and condition, including the spare. Make sure the tread is appropriate for the terrain you will be traveling.

4.Jack up the front of your rig and make a quick check of all ball joints, tie rods ends and wheel bearings. Grab the tire by the and at the top and bottom, and check for any excess movement by rocking the wheel in and out. Do the same by rocking the tire side to side. Any excessive free play should be checked out by a qualified mechanic. Do the same at the rear

5.Plan you trip! File a “flight plan.” Let someone know where you are, when you are leaving and when you’ll be back. Let then know when they should start to worry if they haven’t heard from you, and whom to contact. You should have a map of where you are going, and so should someone staying behind.

6.Check the weather forecast. Bring appropriate clothing and protective gear (hats, sunglasses, lip balm, sunscreen). Pack extra clothing in case you get wet or it gets a little colder than expected. If there’s room, throw in at lease one sleeping bag (preferable one for each member of your party), even if you don’t plan to spend the night.

May 24, 2008

Maxxis Tire - Choosing the Right Tire

Choosing the right tire for your specific application can be a tough process. To help with your selection, we've compiled a list of the most popular Maxxis ATV and motorcycle tires along with their intended application.

Maxxis ATV Tires

The Bighorn ATV Tire is one of the most popular Maxxis tires. This ATV tire features large widely spaced lugs allowing you to traverse rocky desert terrain with ease. This is a 6 ply Maxxis tire for maximum puncture resistance. Sidewall lugs also help to protect the sidewall and your wheels.

The Maxxis Mudzilla ATV Tire is (obviously) geared toward mud riding. This is also a 6 ply Maxxis ATV tire and features a unique rubber composition for longer wear. For more budget friendly mud Maxxis tires, check out the Mud Bug.

Lastly, the Maxxis Razr tire is well-suited for intermediate terrain. This is a favorite tire among racers. This tire features, smaller closer lugs for maximum traction in versatile dirt conditions. If you are looking for a high quality replacement for your OEM tires, this is it.

You can expect to spend in the neighborhood of $150 for a high quality ATV tire. Be sure to shop around for the best price as they vary quite a bit. Additionally, you can usually find good deals on Maxxis tires online.

Maxxis Motorcycle Tires

For dual sport applications, you'll want to look at the M series Maxxis tire. These have a unique compound to give you performance both on and off-road. For an off-road use Maxxis tire, you will be choosing from the following: IT, HT, ST, and CI series tires. Of this group, the IT is the strongest tire and is designed for the varied conditions. The HT is a hart terrain Maxxis tire and the ST series Maxxis tire is designed for soft sand and mud riding.

Lastly, the CI series Maxxis tire is designed for intermediate terrain. This is the best all-around Maxxis motorcycle tire and a good OEM replacement tire.

There are 5 different types of street Maxxis motorcycle tires. The Supermaxx tires are designed for speed and performance. These are great sportbike tires. Classic and Promaxx are intermediate tires offering a good balance of wear and performance. Touring Maxxis tires are built with heavier bikes in mind. These are great for cruisers.

Although Maxxis tires are moderately priced, it is important to shop around before purchasing. You can usually find good deals on Maxxis tires online.

By Lyle Dove