Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Is It Wise to Start a Mobile Auto Services Business At the End of 2012 or Beginning of 2013?

Most people may not realize this but service businesses particularly those in the auto sector are generally the last hit by a recession, and the first to recover. Now then, a mobile auto service business, one which is home based has even more advantages. This is because there are no high-rent costs hanging over your head. Does this mean there is little risk to operating a business of this type in an economic downturn?

No, of course not don't be silly - yes, of course there is risk in operating any business especially in a recession. It's just there may be less risk, and with lower costs in the automotive service sector. Thus, it improves you chances of weathering the storm. Okay so, let's talk shall we?

Well, as I write this article we are in the fourth quarter of 2012, and looking ahead at a recession in the first two quarters of 2013. Now then, by definition a recession is two-consecutive quarters of negative GDP growth, so we may not know if we are even in a recession until we are well into the second quarter or even the third quarter of 2013, by then who knows it could be one-third to half over with you see? Do I recommend that you start your business now know this information?

Well, if you are out of work, you might consider it, but no I am not going to necessarily recommend it. Personally, and realize I am retired from this sector, I wouldn't advise anyone starting a business in the US until the socialists are run out of office, or the voters grow up and realize that socialism is a dead end. But, since you are interested let me tell you what I know from experience.

You see, I was in the franchising sector previously, franchising automotive service businesses usually home based where someone could work out of a trailer, van, pick-up, or flatbed truck. We had units operating in 23-states, and we served some 450 different cities. We operated through decades of good times and bad, recessions and growth periods. Times when we couldn't find any labor because Bush's tax cuts had the unemployment rate down to 5.4% and times when the economy was so bad, we had reduced our prices so low, it's amazing we made any money at all, but we went to a "low-down menu" strategy and made it up in volume remaining highly efficient.

Tuesday, November 13, 2012

Features That Make Harley Saddlebags Suitable For Citizen Journalists

The growing skepticism regarding state sponsored media and the news enterprises regulated by commercial corporations has led to a rampant increase in the number of citizen journalists. Primarily concerned with endorsing untainted truth and unadulterated facts, citizen journalists go to extreme lengths to cover a political, social or cultural event of immense significance!

As opposed to privately owned news enterprises, citizen journalism advocates free sharing of information. Due to its anti-monopolistic nature, this form of journalism is regarded as an authentic alternative to state media.

An analysis of the post-millennium era in particular reveals notable examples of several independent journalists who have courageously highlighted military coups, public uprisings and anarchism amongst citizens of a particular state. Vinukumar Ranganathan, the Indian Business Development Manager who uploaded graphic images of the 2008 Mumbai attacks, and Mayhill Fowler - a self-employed American journalist who presented intriguing insights into Barack Obama's 2008 presidential campaign, are two of the most prominent individuals affiliated with the realm of citizen journalism.

It is note-worthy that every citizen journalist who travels by means of a bike needs to bring along an appropriate-sized, durable motorcycle luggage in order to accommodate his/her vital accessories. Manufactured by skilled personnel, Harley saddlebags have all the essential features that will facilitate independent journalists in accommodating the essential equipment required for news reporting. The following discussion will serve to substantiate this stance.

a) Every self-employed journalist needs to carry certain electronic accessories at all times. These accessories include: a smartphone, mini tripod, laptop, net-book with webcam and a digital camcorder.

The heavy-duty, plastic reinforced lid and body of Harley bags along with the interior metal frame has extraordinary shock-absorbing capacity and will protect all of the aforementioned electronic equipment from getting damaged especially in the midst of massive unrest!

b) Vivid, up-close images increase the validity of a particular news report. A mini tripod will greatly facilitate every independent journalist in capturing steady shots of a significant political rally or an important public demonstration.

Fortunately, the spacious inner compartment of Harley sportster saddlebags affords ample space for the safekeeping of a small-sized, portable tripod thereby enabling the journalist to take graphic, high-resolution shots of heart-rending, newsworthy events.

Monday, November 12, 2012

Making a Motorcycle Helmet Cam Work for You!

If you've ever watched any motor sports you know that the teams, drivers, or riders will review footage of their races and practices to see where they can improve. In recent years this has been taken to the next level for dirt bike and motorcycle riders. The riders can strap on helmet cams and literally relive their race to see where they made mistakes, or where they could have made better choices. The pros will do this to pick up a tenth of a second per lap sometimes. They can see very minor mistakes or better lines that make them a better rider or give them a faster lap. A motorcycle helmet cam can make YOU a better rider too!

When it comes to motorcycle riding, we are an obsessed bunch. That should be the case for improving our skills as a rider also! A helmet camera can help us do just that. Take for instance a dirt bike rider on a trail ride through the woods. There's going to be lots of obstacles to traverse and a number of line choices. With you camera rolling, you get to review your ride back at home. Sure the camera gets to capture the ride and some scenery but it's also capturing more. It can show you what you're doing right, and what you are doing wrong. While riding you have to make split second decisions about what line to take, or how to traverse or avoid an obstacle. Sometimes we make the right choice, sometimes the wrong. Reviewing footage of a ride can help you to hone those skills and be better prepared for the next time.

That's how a motorcycle helmet cam can go to work for you, but all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. Your cam is great for capturing riding footage to share with friends and family or make a video log for your website or YouTube channel. You can edit the video, add commentary, and more. If you take a spill when jumping that off camber sand dune you can choose to take that out, or add some colorful voice over. Use the cam for street rides to help identify risky intersections and other poor behavior that we see so often from our 4 wheeled counterparts. There are so many good reasons to have a helmet cam and you really only need one reason to go out and buy one. So what are you waiting for?

Sunday, November 11, 2012

How To Utilize Your Motorcycle Pants And Chaps For Making A Splendid Halloween Costume!

Every enthusiastic child and adult eagerly waits for the festive occasion of Halloween. Regarded as an occasion that encourages communal merriment, Halloween enables one to rekindle one's relationship with one's: immediate family members, contemporary friends and long-estranged school friends!

Aside from serving as an event that provides ample opportunity for catharsis and spilling one's guts (no pun intended), Halloween also propels one to explore one's creative streak by experimenting with various spooky, eye-popping and bone-chilling costumes. In effect, for individuals possessing an artistic disposition, this national holiday is the ideal occasion for manifesting the silent, reflective artist that lies buried within each of them- yearning for expression!

It is noteworthy that while children traditionally opt for costumes based on legendary comic book heroes such as Superman, Spider-Man, Batman, Captain America, The Hulk etc., introspective adults and college students often derive inspiration from renowned literary, political and revolutionary figures such as Virginia Woolf, Charlotte Bronte, Oscar Wilde, Abraham Lincoln, Napoleon, Che Guevara and Castro etc. when it comes to designing innovative costumes.

Those of you, who have an extra pair of well-stitched motorcycle pants and chaps at home, can utilize this essential apparel item for putting together an intriguing Halloween costume. Highlighted below are some of the tips that will come in handy while experimenting with your leather biker pants on the much-awaited Halloween eve!

a) Many people dread the sight of clowns; perhaps this reason accounts for their presence in haunted houses. Since Halloween predominantly aims at inciting a palpable degree of fear in your peers, a clown costume will serve as the ideal attire for this spooky occasion.

To add a unique touch to your clown apparel, you can opt for a form-fitting pair of black leather bike pants. For making the dressing process relatively easy, most of these pants have thigh length side zippers. To project a scarier and a more believable look, you can pair your black leather pants with a pair of brightly colored clown shoes with wide toe-boxes.

Furthermore, extremely loud makeup coupled with a fake round red nose and a pair of white gloves will also add to the fearful aura of your disguise!

b) Manufactured from top-quality leather, dark-colored motorcycle chaps will enable a man to flaunt an Indiana Jones look while sitting with his peers- circled around a warm, cozy bonfire.

To generate a flawless Indiana Jones look, it is recommended that you wear a pair of brown leather cowboy chaps with fringed edges. Moreover, a brown leather jacket coupled with a pair of brown cowboy hat will enhance the western-like appeal of your personality.

Wednesday, October 31, 2012

High Performance Exhaust Systems By Termignoni

A common choice in improving the performance of a motorcycle is to change the exhaust system. It is relatively simple to do this as replacing an existing exhaust system is normally a straight swap. The only difficult part is deciding what type of exhaust would be best for you. There are a couple of things that you need to look at when you are thinking about changing your exhaust system. What sort of power increase can you expect? How much weight will you save? Is it going to be worth the money? These are the sort of questions you need to ask yourself before you make the purchase. You could sit for hours trying to find the perfect exhaust but a good place to start would be with Termignoni Exhausts.

If you haven't heard of Termignoni before, they are an Italian producer of high performance race & road legal exhausts. Their exhausts have been used for years in Moto GP & Moto 2 and they have a reputation for producing some of the world's best performance exhaust systems. Using the experience the company has gained from being at the top levels in motorcycle racing they have produced an enormous range of aftermarket exhausts that are available to the general public. What makes these exhausts more impressive is that the entire aftermarket line of Termignoni Exhausts are all designed by the same team of people!

It is true that Termignoni Exhausts are often thought of as being made for Ducati's alone but this is absolutely not the case! The range of aftermarket exhausts is huge and these systems are available for the majority of modern motorcycles. Yamaha, Honda, Kawasaki, Harley-Davidson, Buell and many more all have their own selection. Made from a variety of different materials such as Stainless Steel, Alloy, Carbon & Titanium you should be able to find a high performance exhaust that suits your budget. The price is very fair for what you get out of these exhausts. Other than the performance exhausts they also offer great looks.

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

Benefits of Saddlebag Support Systems

Bikers love to travel and carry their stuff along. They are passionate about having the best accessories that offer great utility. Saddlebag support systems serve as the right choice for bikers who wish to keep their saddlebags in the best shape even after years of use. The look offered to heavy bikes by a leather saddlebag is simply fabulous and much better in contrast to the plastic and fiberglass counterparts. Therefore, it is very important to care for the saddlebags and replace them whenever required to improve the look of the bike. Saddlebags are made of leather and are perfect to be used in heavy bikes and cruisers.

Saddlebags shrink or lose their shape over a period of time due to which they need to be replaced. Instead of replacing them, you can use the saddlebag support systems and install the accessories on your own. When you opt for the support system, you do not have to worry about purchasing a new bag whenever the saddlebag loses its shape. You will be pleased to know that many sellers are nowadays offering the support systems to their clients at an affordable price. A warranty is offered too so that you do not have to worry about the maintenance of the saddlebag. The support system consists of the best quality adhesives, stiffeners, lid inserts and utility pouches. The use of stiffeners greatly reduces the sagging effect ultimately increasing the life of saddlebags. Likewise, the use of saddlebag lid inserts offer the necessary strength and rigidness to the bags.

The saddlebag support systems have adhesives for installing the lid inserts. This is very popular among people who are concerned about their saddlebags while travelling. Before installing the motorcycle saddlebag accessories, do not fail to take the exact dimensions where you will install it. The size of the saddlebag will depend entirely on the measurements taken. The best technology is used for the manufacture of the saddlebag support system so that the saddlebag does not lose its shape even after a bumpy bike ride. While choosing the accessories for installation, make sure that it does not have a negative impact on the aesthetic appeal of your bike. In case you are looking for the best accessories for your bike, you can find them easily at various online stores. You can get a complete list of accessories and their prices by checking out these stores. To know more about the products, you can directly mail or call up their customer care executives.

Sunday, October 28, 2012

Gear Up for Your Ride With Men and Women Biker Jewelry

Being a biker not only requires the right edge and attitude, but the right gear as well. To evoke a biker feeling, both men and women need to have the right accessories. One may not think that accessories and bikers go in the same sentence, but bikers need the right jewelry for both practical and fashionable purposes.

Biker bracelets are not only cool looking, but they also serve useful purposes, protecting the wrists while riding. They will look great with any vest or leather jacket and are a simple and useful piece of jewelry around the arm area. Biker Leather Bracelets are simple to strap on and will provide extra comfort and protection to the wrists. There are also pendants and buckles attached to these bracelets and are an interesting piece to have on any wrist. The same applies to Biker Necklaces. Any kind of necklaces will look great around the neck and there are numerous styles available that will express a person's personality. There are skull, spike and chain necklaces that will truly make a statement for the wearer. Biker Pendants are an excellent jewelry to have around they come in a variety of styles that will suit anyone's taste. Pendants are one of the many accessories that bikers love to wear and there are plenty of styles to choose from.

There are also many Biker Rings that will stand out and make any biker look stylish. Biker Earrings can match the rings as well and are for both men and women. Biker Belt Buckles are a key people of any biker gear and there are many varieties to choose from that will suit both young and old bikers. Biker Chains can match well with the belt and can come in the form of wallet chains, necklaces or pendant chains. There are also Biker Watches that are stylish and will look different from what other stores are offering.

Regardless of the great, biker accessories are a great way to stand out be unique. Bikers will be surprised by the stares and complements they will get from this quality jewelry. Bikers are more than just about riding bikes; it is a lifestyle and with lifestyle should come the right gear. There is all kinds of gear in the form of jewelry, bandanas, facial masks and necklaces. Everything a biker need is at one's disposal and there is enough gear to make any biker truly stand out. The gear available will make a biker unique from their fellow bikers while feeling a part of something greater. There are all kinds of styles and varieties that will appeal to bikers of any age.

Thursday, September 27, 2012

Getting Your Van Sunroof Converted

We love camper vans. They come in all shapes and sizes and those who are fortunate to own one, tend to love them. For me it became such an integrated part of the family we even had to name it... Harriet.

Family holidays all centred round the van. I recall many a break where the family were sat outside on a warm summers evening. We all crowded round a camping table playing board games of monopoly, risk and cards.

Whilst the van was cramped it had one important advantage over a caravan. It was quicker. And I don't mean that in a speed demon petrol head, kind of way. The fact we didn't have the extra weight of a tourer meant that we could get to our destination quicker than the 48mph caravan. This meant that family holidays could be a little further afield.

The one disadvantage of our particular model was that it nearly always leaked. And in particular the sunroof caused us many an angst moment.

On one particular occasion, I remember a rather windy night. The rain nearly always woke me up. The noise of the rain on the van roof was always noisy. We didn't notice the dripping at first, it quietly dropped onto the duvet cover. However, it took until the morning, when my sister was wrongly accused of wetting the bed that we found out the problem.

If you are looking to install a sunroof in your van you need to ensure that it is professionally fitted. This guide is meant to help you ask the right questions before you embark on this project.

1) First of all ask your installer how often they fit new sunroofs. It is important to get an installer who is experienced in fitting. You want to know that they have fitted 100's of vans and know what they are doing.

2) Ask what type of glass they will use. Professional installers will have access to manufacturer glass panels. This will ensure customers that they getting a quality product.

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

What You Need To Check On Your Car After A Collision

If you've been driving for a few years, the chances are you've been involved in an accident of some sort at some stage. Indeed, that sense of dread you get the moment after you've collided with another car certainly stays with you. However conscientious and considerate a driver you are, there are bound to be times when you simply can't legislate for the ill-considered and ill-timed actions of other road users. After all, it only takes a poorly-judged lane change to result in a serious accident. It's important to keep a level head in these situations if you can, however.

According to CNN, car accidents can happen when drivers least expect them - and even the calmest motorists can suddenly be thrown into confusion in the immediate aftermath. The first step to take following a collision is of course to ensure that everyone in the car is uninjured. You may feel the need to call the emergency services depending on the severity of the accident. You should try to avoid inadvertently admitting guilt in the moments after a car crash. It can be difficult to get your bearings again but you should try to ensure you don't end up accepting the blame for a collision that turns out to be someone else's fault.

A guide from Wikihow.com recommends carrying out thorough checks to your vehicle following an accident, so that you know precisely what needs to be repaired.

Before you start giving your car the once-over, it's a good idea to check its history. This will give you a clearer idea of what repairs have been carried out in the past, and whether it has been involved in any accidents in the past.A visual inspection of the vehicle is essential and can help you get a better idea of what needs to be repaired. Take a good look at the bodywork and bumpers of the vehicle and keep a close eye out for any cracks, scratches or indentations. Bumpers in particular can break easily as they're made of plastic, and any damage to them could be an indication of other problems. Make sure you have a good look at your windscreen, looking in particular for chips, cracks or webbing.

Take a look at the gaps between bodywork panels to check whether they're properly aligned. It's quite common for gaps to appear between doors and panels following an accident, and these kinds of problem will obviously need to be resolved relatively quickly. Checking thoroughly for signs of damage is a very important task to carry out following an accident. You might not realise the extent of the damage at the time, as problems can emerge almost unnoticed.

Tuesday, September 25, 2012

Guide to Buying Car Parts Online

Purchasing Car Parts

Identifying the Right Car Parts

1. No matter how handy you may be, or how much you think you know about cars, don't make a diagnosis without checking with a qualified mechanic first. If you have problems later, you may void your warranty or ability to exchange the purchased car parts once installed.

2. Rather than rely only on the seller to recommend the right parts, call your local dealer and get the part numbers you require. Some dealers may not give this information out over the telephone. In these cases, call another dealer.

3. Contact the online seller and confirm the part numbers. Do this even if they have the car parts listed for your application (without the part numbers).

4. If you receive parts that look incorrect, do not install them. If you do, you may not be able to exchange them. Contact the seller immediately.

5. Be aware that some car parts have multiple part numbers.

6. Be aware that some parts may have superseded part numbers or may have been revised and look different to the original car parts or photos provided online. In these circumstances, the part is OK.

7. If buying from a seller in another country, it is essential that you use part numbers to identify the required car parts. Overseas applications may vary even if the cars appear to be the same.

8. Unless the buyer is very reputable, make sure you only buy parts which have photos of the actual part on the advertisement. That way you know what to expect when you receive them.

9. Although not always effective, checking the photos may help differentiate them from other car parts that may also be applicable to your application.

Quality of Car Parts

1. There are various levels of quality when buying online.

2. Ask the seller about brands of the parts you are interested in.

3. Please be aware that the vehicles manufacturer does not always manufacture the car parts you are replacing. For example, many cars have Bosch fuel injectors installed in the vehicle by the manufacturer. In these cases, Bosch fuel injectors are the genuine replacement. If you buy your fuel injectors from Ford, they may come in Ford packaging even though they are Bosch injectors. If you buy online and receive them in packaging such as Bosch, that does not mean they are not genuine.

4. Ask the seller whether there is a warranty and for how long the warranty applies to your car parts. Also ask whether there are any conditions on the warranty. One such condition may be that they be installed by a licensed mechanic.

5. While there is a preference to replace your car parts with genuine parts, many aftermarket brands are built to OE quality standards and will suit your application just fine.

6. In the EFI market, you can always rely on brands such as Bosch, Delphi, Hitachi, Denso,Walker, VDO, Valeo, Standard, General Electric, Walbro, Pierburg, Bremi, Bougicord etc.

7. Cheaper car parts manufactured in countries such as China are the ones where greater care needs to be taken. While some of these car parts are built well, others are not. Ask your seller about the reliability of these as well as the warranty.

8. Remember you get what you pay for. There are many online sellers listing car parts that appear to be a bargain, however it is important to note that these may not last very long, or worse still, they may put you and your family in danger.

9. Be aware of fake or counterfeit car parts and report someone trying to sell these. A Bosch 044 fuel pump for example may be listed as "Bosch 044 'style' fuel pump" or "Bosch 044 'replacement' fuel pump". This may be misleading as the fuel pump is not a genuine Bosch and 'Bosch' should not feature in the title. Others simply advertise fake parts as genuine items and sell these with fake packaging. Buy from a reputable seller and purchase using PayPal (see below) so that you're covered.

10. Don't always go for the cheapest car parts. Remember that a reputable and trusted seller will provide you quality parts, better service and further assistance after they have sold the items to you (if needed). Things can go wrong so ensure you are dealing with someone you trust.

Payment

1. Read the terms and conditions of the transaction and ask questions before committing purchasing. Often the terms are displayed at checkout or on a separate page of the website. There may be disclaimers about the photos and/or information displayed on the website.

2. It is highly recommended that you use a form of payment that provides you with cover in case something goes wrong. Credit card companies or Paypal provide such a service. For example, you may be eligible for a refund if your item does not arrive, arrives damaged or is not what you were expecting. For more information refer to the Paypal website or your credit card company.