Category: Blog

Keeping Your Hands Warm

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Chicago seasons are pretty drastic and before you know it, you’ll feel a little chilly as you ride your motorcycle. As a used motorcycle dealer serving Chicago, we want to make sure you have all the tips and tricks to stay comfortable during the colder months while you ride.

Purchase Cold Gloves

A quality pair of cold gloves goes a long way in keeping your hands comfortable while controlling the bike. Make sure the gloves you choose are not too bulky and you’re satisfied with the benefits, such as good insulation, and what type of temperatures the gloves can handle.

Invest In Hand Warmers

Hand warmers can be inserted into your gloves before begin your ride. Make sure you give the hand warmers some time to heat up and place them comfortably in your gloves so you don’t notice them as you drive your motorcycle. The only downside to hand warmers is that they do not last as long as other products, but they are cost-effective and you can buy them in bulk, using them for shorter spurts of rides.

Muffs For Hands

Most muffs are fleece-lined on the inside and waterproof on the outer side, so they work well to keep your hands and arms warm and dry. They are removable so you can put them on your handles as needed and take them off during the warm, summer months. The downside to the muffs is that they are huge and bulky, but if you know you get cold, they could still be worth it for your rides.

Consider Heated Grips

Heated motorcycle grips are great in that they are effective and not bulky in the least. Their popularity has risen exponentially, so much so that many manufacturers have started to include heated grips with a standard package. The heating element underneath the handlebar is connected to the motorcycle’s battery, so once the bike starts, the heaters begin to take effect and riders will immediately feel some relief from the cold weather.

Final Tips

Make sure you consider these tips before you purchase any warming products.

  • Always buy leather as it’s best at preventing wind impact
  • Look for breathability in the product so you have ventilation and avoid moisture buildup
  • Think about your safety when it comes to bulkier products and how it may affect your driving abilities

 

If you are still unsure of what warming products to buy, contact your used motorcycle dealer in Chicago today and we will be happy to help you figure out what will work best for you.

What To Consider When Learning How To Ride

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The summer and fall are perfect seasons to learn how to ride a motorcycle. If you are new to motorcycles and want to test out your used Harley in Chicago, make sure you understand how this machine works, take some classes, and learn how to ride the motorcycle safely. Here are some tips to follow.

Take A Class

If you want to ride a motorcycle, you need to take a course in order to get on the bike. Having someone physically show you what you’re doing right and wrong will help you become a better rider and more confident on the road. Even if you are a seasoned rider, consider taking a Motorcycle Safety Foundation course to brush up on your riding skills.

Insurance, License, Registration

While the DMV can be frustrating and time-consuming, it’s important to obtain all of these documents in order to become street legal on your motorcycle. You need to pass a written test in order to obtain a license. Additionally, make sure you are insured while riding because the danger that comes with riding a motorcycle is written all over the news. In case you end up in an accident—which hopefully never happens—you’ll be glad to have motorcycle insurance.

Buy A Cheaper Bike

For your first bike, try not to get the coolest, most expensive one out there. Instead, be more cost-conscious and look for bikes in the under $10k range. Buying a used motorcycle, such as a used Harley in Chicago, can be beneficial while learning to be on the road for the first time.

Wear Safety Gear

Make sure you are dressing in the right safety gear before you get on your motorcycle. Protective gear helps you stay comfortable while riding in various conditions and helps prevent or reduce injuries. Of course, the most important gear you can wear is a helmet. No matter the law in your state, you should always wear a helmet while riding your motorcycle.

Contact Us Today

Fall is upon us and if you are ready to learn how to ride a motorcycle, we are here to answer any questions or concerns you may have. If you want to embark on the world of motorcycles, contact us today and we will be happy to help you choose an affordable bike. As a first time rider, we will walk you through all the necessities and make sure you are comfortable and confident before you leave our store.

How To Maintain Your Used Harley

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Any motorcycle new or used must be maintained correctly. Properly maintaining your bike will ensure that it is always ready to give you the smoothest, safest ride possible. It is especially important to perform regular maintenance on your used Harley in Chicago because as the miles go up the wear and tear does too.

Know Your Bike

Many of us think that we know our bike, but to keep it properly maintained it is important to understand all the ins and outs of your ride.

Read the Manual

While you may know the basics and then some, the creators of Harley Davidson motorcycles might know a little bit more. Before you start cruising on your used Harley, you should read the bikes manual to learn about maintenance requirements and other important information about the cycle.

Know How to Operate It

If this is your first time buying a used Harley or your hundredth, you should know exactly how to operate it before setting it in motion. Failure to operate the bike properly can lead to unwanted damage that requires pricey repairs. One part of maintenance is making sure that you are operating the Harley with care.

Oil Changes

Oil changes are just as important for your bike as they are for your car. When the oil is old it can clog filters and make your engine run less smoothly. Keep an eye on the miles you’ve been traveling and know when it’s the right time to change out your bike’s oil. Most used Harleys will need an oil change sooner than newer ones, so check in with your odometer regularly. It is recommended to get an oil change every 5,000 miles and at least once every year.

Air Filter Replacement

Any motorcycle requires good air filters to run properly. Be sure to replace or clean yours regularly to keep it from clogging. This maintenance step is crucial for those of you who plan on riding in dusty or dirt-filled terrain.

Tire Replacement

To keep your used Harley in Chicago maintained and safe, it is best to ensure the tires are in good shape. One thing you should check often is the tire pressure, this is important to keep your handling and fuel economy where it should be. Checking your tire tread height will also help you maintain your ride. Tires are critical to safety, make sure that yours are properly maintained.

If you would like any more information on how to maintain your used Harley take a look at our website or call (708) 397-5151.

Why You Should Invest In Detailing Your Motorcycle

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Giving your motorcycle a good wash regularly is always a great idea, but what about regular detailing? It can be a hard thing to justify paying for in some cases, but the benefits of having a newly detailed motorcycle might be a good decision for you. Here are some reasons why investing in detailing your used Harley Davidson in Chicago is well worth it. 

More Invasive Than Just A Wash

Basic washes rinse off dirt and dust, detailing is much more invasive. When the professionals get their hands on your used Harley Davidson in Chicago you will be happy you spent the extra money. Detailing services to keep the exterior of your bike looking good for much longer than just a basic wash. At home detailing is also an option, but for the best end result, it’s good to leave it up to the professionals. 

Protects Your Ride

The process of detailing the exterior of your motorcycle can protect your ride for miles. The process includes a little pre-wash, wheel cleaning, dash and control shining, engine scrubbing, chrome polishing, leather treating, and after the rinse and dry, a paint sealant applying. This over-the-top process is worth every penny because in return your ride’s exterior will be protected for longer and the resale value of your bike will go up. 

Helps with Maintenance 

Maintaining your used Harley Davidson in Chicago isn’t just about the engine and tires, the exterior is important too. With the added processes that come with detailing your vehicle will need fewer washes to keep it in tip-top shape. The paint sealant and leather treatment save you time in the future for repairs, so consider investing in detail now might save you money later on. 

Keeps Your Ride Looking Good

We all know that appearance is important for any vehicle, detailing can give your motorcycle a fresh shine. While waxing after a wash can add that shimmer, detailing can make it last much longer. After professional treatment, your bike can shine like it just rolled out of the showroom. Regularly washing your motorcycle to keep its shine can wear down the exterior, so if you are extra conscious of its appearance detailing might be perfect for you. 

If you are interested in getting your motorcycle detailed visit Chicago Cycles & Motorsports off of Mannheim Road in Stone Park, IL or visit our website for more information.

What to Pack for a Motorcycle Road Trip

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There’s nothing quite like the thrill of packing your bike full of the necessary gear and heading out on a little road trip with some of your friends. This is especially true in the summer when the weather is warm and the sun is shining. If you’re in the process of planning a motorcycle road trip with your friends, here are some helpful packing tips from our used motorcycle dealer in Chicago to keep in mind.

Roll Your Clothes

Your clothes will likely take up the most room on your bike, so strategically packing them is ideal. Rolling your clothes is a tried and true way to save space while still bringing everything that you want with you.

Use Your Boots for Storage

Another way to save space is to put smaller items into your boots. Of course, this only applies if you are bringing an extra pair of boots that you are not wearing while riding, but it is something to consider! If you aren’t bringing boots, you can try putting smaller items into your regular shoes as well.

Develop a Packing System

You likely don’t have a set packing system in place, so taking the time to stay organized will suit you well in the long run. Packing efficiently is a lot easier when you have a system in place, and you can implement this strategy during your future trips as well. Each bag that you pack can hold a different category of clothing and you should try to always put your items back in the same place when you are done using them.

Lock Your Valuables

Regardless of where you are going, it is always a good idea to keep your valuables locked up and stowed away. If you don’t have a locking compartment of some sort on your bike, this is a good investment for both current and future rides.

Don’t Overpack

This goes without saying but packing too much for your bike will be a hassle. Stick to bringing the bare essentials so that you aren’t stuck trying to keep track of fitting too much onto your bike. You can also pack detergent to help reduce the amount of clothing that you need to take.

A successful road trip starts with a reliable bike! Our team at Chicago Cycles Motorsports is dedicated to ensuring you have a high-quality bike no matter the situation. If you’re looking for a used motorcycle dealer in Chicago, look no further than our team.

The Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

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We’re all motorcycle enthusiasts here, but that doesn’t mean that accidents don’t happen. Riding a used Harley Davidson in Chicago is one of the more exhilarating things that you can do in life, so taking the extra steps to stay safe is always a good idea. Did you know that motorcyclists are 27 times more likely than passenger car occupants to die in a crash and are five times more likely to be injured? The following are common reasons that motorcycle accidents occur; make sure that you are aware of these incidents to help stay safe!

Unsafe Lane Changes

Changing lanes even in a regular motor vehicle can be tricky, but doing so while riding a motorcycle is even harder. You’ll want to make sure that you check your blind spot before you switch lanes. The last thing that you want is to get hit by a car while you are switching lanes. Double and even triple-checking for other vehicles before you switch lanes is never a bad idea.

Car Doors Opening Unexpectedly

Parked cars may not seem like a danger to motorcycle riders, but it is when a driver unexpectedly opens their car door while they are parked that motorcycle riders are caught off-guard. Always proceed with caution when it comes to riding past a parked car!

Speeding

Regardless of if you are driving a used Harley Davidson in Chicago or if you are in a standard motor vehicle, you should always obey the speed limit. Speed limits are a tool to help control the flow of traffic and reduce the number of accidents on the road. Disobeying the speed limit, especially by more than 10 miles per hour, puts you and other drivers in a dangerous position. It’s no surprise that speeding is one of the main causes of motor vehicle accidents in the U.S.

Dangerous Road Conditions

Motorcycles aren’t always the best method of transportation if the weather isn’t ideal. If you have a choice, opt for taking a car if it is snowing, raining, hailing or anything between! If you don’t have a choice and you need to take your used Harley Davidson in Chicago, don’t drive too fast and keep a safe following distance behind other cars on the road.

Don’t let the fear of driving a motorcycle keep you away from your bike! Being aware of potential dangers on the road is half the battle when it comes to your safety.

Does Your Motorcycle Need an Oil Change?

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One of the easiest ways to keep your motorcycle in good shape is to get oil changes on a regular basis, just as you do your car. Even used Harley motorcycles in Chicago need TLC to keep them running the right way! Engine oil is important because it helps lubricate and cool down the engine, which prevents the engine from overheating. However, over time, engine oil becomes dirty and it loses the chemical properties that make it effective.  Be aware of the following signs, as they alert you to when your oil needs to be changed.

What Color is It?

One of the easiest ways to check the status of your oil is by looking at what color it is. If you see that the oil is a translucid light brown color, this means that your oil is fresh and the way it should be. If the oil is black and thick, this is a sign that it may be time for an oil change.

In order to check the thickness of the oil, carefully put your finger inside the canister and rub it against another finger. Notice the texture; if it is smooth, it is in good shape, but if it is gritty or full of particles, this is a sign of contamination.

Notice How Your Engine Sounds

Your bike’s engine should sound a particular way, and if it doesn’t, this could be a sign that you need to change its oil. You know your bike better than anyone else does so you will be able to tell if the motor isn’t running correctly. Keep in mind that new oil in your engine will help create a layer between all of the metallic parts inside of your engine, so if you hear loud noises, this means that your oil should be changed.

You Don’t Remember When You Last Changed Your Oil

Even though your used Harley motorcycle in Chicago has the right amount of oil, it might not be the cleanest option to help your bike run smoothly. If you don’t remember the last time you had your oil changed, it’s time to head to the shop to get it changed. Make sure to write down the date that you get it changed moving forward so there isn’t any confusion.

Taking care of your motorcycle’s engine oil is a simple task that can greatly extend the life of your bike! If you have more questions about motorcycle care, don’t hesitate to contact our team at CCM Rides!

Safely Riding Your Motorcycle in the Rain

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The city of Chicago and its surrounding areas have been hit with a lot of heavy rain in the past few weeks, throwing a wrench in many peoples’ travel plans. Riding a used Harley Davidson in Chicago in the rain comes with its challenges, but it can be done if the rider has the knowledge of how to stay safe. Some motorcycle riders love riding in the rain while others can’t think of anything worse. If you aren’t currently a fan of riding in the rain, the following changes in your technique may make you realize it’s not so bad!

Beware of Puddles

When you see a puddle, you may think that it is small enough to safely ride over. But the truth is, you never know exactly what is underneath that puddle. For all you know, it could be a pothole that appears as a small puddle. Go around the puddle if traffic patterns allow you to do so. If you can’t avoid it, hold the throttle, keep your bike upright and don’t touch the brakes in any way.

Watch for Shiny, Smooth Surfaces

The rain instantly turns otherwise-safe parts of the road into potentially dangerous conditions. For example, painted lines on the road, manhole covers, tar snakes and metal plates become much more dangerous when they are wet. If you can’t avoid these surfaces, make sure to avoid sudden braking or acceleration.

Focus on One Thing at a Time

When the weather isn’t bad, you can easily accelerate, turn or shift at the same time while you are on your Used Harley Davidson in Chicago. But when the weather isn’t ideal, you’ll want to focus on doing only one action at a time. This will help reduce the stress on your tires and allow them to safely complete the task at hand.

Invest in Visible Waterproof Gear

Getting riding gear that is waterproof is important, but it’s even more important to find gear that is also reflective to help make yourself visible to other drivers around you. Keep in mind that rain makes it more difficult for other cars to see you as it is, so buying a reflective coat and accessories is an easy precaution to take.

Driving your motorcycle in the rain doesn’t have to be as scary or intimidating as you think! If you want more tips and tricks, contact our team at Chicago Cycles Motorsports today!

Spring Motorcycle Maintenance

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Now that the weather is finally warming up again, you can dust off your bike and hit the road once again! Your bike has likely been sitting for months on end, so you’ll want to give it a little bit of TLC before riding it. This will ensure that you have a smooth and safe ride every time you step onto your bike. Here are some spring motorcycle maintenance tips from our used motorcycle dealer in Chicago.

Check Your Brakes

Your brakes are arguably one of the most important aspects of a well-running bike. Inspect your brake pads, your brake lines and your brake fluid before you ride for the first time this spring. If you notice that your brake pads are worn down or there are cracked lines, you’ll want to get this fixed before you ride. Squeaking or squealing noises are also red flags that something is wrong with your brakes.

Check Oil and Fill the Gas Tank

The last thing that you want to do is ride your bike using the leftover gas that was in the tank. As a general rule of thumb, if gas is more than 6 weeks old, you don’t want to use it. The gas can evaporate and even turn thick if it is left for that long. Checking the oil is another easy thing to do that will have a large impact on how well your bike runs.

Evaluate the Tires

Flat tires will quickly put a damper on your ride before it truly begins. Check the air pressure in both of your tires before riding. If the pressure is too low, it will make handling your bike more difficult in addition to creating more wear and tear on your tires. Visit our used motorcycle dealer in Chicago if you need help with your tires!

Charge the Battery

Winters are long in Chicago, so your bike has probably spent a good amount of time in a closed off, dark space. If you hadn’t removed the battery before the winter started, you’ll want to charge it before riding.

Start Slow

It’s been a while since you last rode a motorcycle, so you don’t want to come out of the gate guns blazing. It is best to start with a casual ride around your neighborhood before getting into the tight turns and busy roads.

Looking for a used motorcycle dealer in Chicago to provide you with quality bikes at an affordable price? Visit our team at CCM Rides today!

Safety Tips from Seasoned Riders

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There’s no such thing as being too safe when it comes to riding a motorcycle. While experience helps you feel more confident while navigating the roads, accidents inevitably happen. In order to help minimize your chances of getting into an accident on your used Harley Davidson in Chicago, our team at Chicago Cycles Motorsports has compiled a list of tips from seasoned riders that can make a huge difference in your safety.

Ride with People You Trust

The motorcycle pack surrounding you on the road is extremely important in how comfortable you feel. If you’re a beginner, you’ll want to gravitate towards people who are experienced so they can help show you the ropes. You should also ride with people who are a good example of how to ride safely; not showing off, always riding soberly, and able to handle any situation thrown their way, including bad weather!

Don’t Ride When You’re Tired

Riding your bike when you are tired is the equivalent of riding when you are intoxicated. Every rider should be aware of their riding limit. You should also make sure that you stop every 75-125 miles to stretch and eat something to regain your energy. Stepping off the bike is a great opportunity to refresh.

Have an Escape Route Planned

You always want to have an escape route planned when you are coming to a signal and stop. Plan to stay in gear and to keep an eye on the traffic that is approaching behind you. Leave enough room to switch lanes if push comes to shove.

Be Aware of Tight Turns

Taking a turn on a used Harley Davidson in Chicago is a lot different than taking a turn in a car. If you use all clutch or no clutch at all, this could lead to tipping your bike over when you are making turns. Feathering your clutch is the ideal way to have the right amount of momentum when you are making the turn.

Watch for Semi Trucks

The blind spot for a semi truck driver is a lot larger than a blind spot in a regular-sized vehicle. If you have to pass a semi truck, make sure that you do so efficiently so that you don’t spend too much time in the blind spot. These large trucks also produce more wind turbulence which can be dangerous to ride besides.

What are some of your favorite riding tips that you have learned throughout your experience?