Hawkeye Rider News

When it comes to fuel systems, the carburetor is the analog option compared to cutting-edge electronic fuel injection (EFI). Both have their advantages and disadvantages, but EFI is a more popular option for newer vehicles.

Now a days, carburetors are usually found on older vehicles or small ones, like scooters. They're cheaper to make than EFI systems and help keep unit prices low. Known for their affordability, parts are usually easier to get a hold of. Carb systems rely on the intake vacuum. It's a strictly mechanical process which requires no electricity. While that might sound like a benefit, it can make it difficult to start in the cold, or at high elevations.

On the other hand, EFI is more complicated. The throttle body is filled with circuit boards and sensors. It's unaffected by the air temperature or atmospheric pressure. Instead, the EFI creates its own pressure to deliver the right ratio of fuel and air. With this sophisticated system, the cost of making vehicles with EFI is higher than those with carburated systems.

Overall, EFIs are more reliable and precise in creating the right ratio of fuel and air. You don't have to worry with a choke or leaking fuel lever. There is less maintenance to do on the EFI system. On a carburetor, you must keep constant attention to it, which can be time-consuming. EFIs have taken over simply for their convenience factor and more fuel efficient ways. Strict environmental regulations have also made it difficult for manufactures to produce carburated vehicles. Unfortunately, it looks like the carburetor is going the way of the dinosaurs.

    As seasons change, it's important not to forget your battery when preparing your vehicle for storage.

    For the best results when storing a battery, remove it from your vehicle before storage. Store the battery in a well-ventilated location. We also recommend using a trickle charger, as they can be used for long periods of time without damaging the battery. A battery will discharge regardless of temperature or storage location. This method will keep the battery in a good condition, as long as it had full health at time of storage. For more information, talk to one of our knowledgeable service techs at 563-391-9009.

Since it's officially fall, days will be shorter and you could find yourself riding without sunlight quickly. Night riding does have it's benefits though. The road can be less busy and filled with fewer distractions. However, it can also be more risky as there is less visibility. Here are some helpful tips on staying safe this fall.

• 1. Your vision: Switch to a non-tinted visor or get a helmet with flip-down sunshades. As obvious as this one sounds, the darkness can creep up on you without warning. One moment the setting sun can be blinding you, and the next it could be twilight with street lights flickering on. Make sure you think ahead, and switch out your summer visor for a clear one to ensure maximum visibility.

  2. Stand out: Reflective and fluorescent riding gear is your friend. Other drivers will be able to see you better if your clothing stands out against the dark streets. There are many options for bright and reflective clothing, but you can also add reflective tape to your jacket yourself.

  3. Cleaning: Make sure your headlight, tail light, and turn signals are clean! After a summer full of riding, there is sure to be a lot of bugs caked on your lights. You'll be surprised how much of a difference it can make to remove debris from them.

  4. The Road: A big disadvantage of night riding is not being able to clearly see the road in front of you, especially if it's an unfamiliar one. Keeping an eye on the reflective road lines makes a great way to predict your path. They don't just show you the twists and turns, but also what sort of lane positions you have available.

  5. High beams: When appropriate, use your high beams to ensure that you see obstacles before you reach them. In the fall, wildlife becomes more active at dusk. October is the start of mating season for deer. They become more adventurous and will be more likely to venture towards roads. In fact, your chances of hitting a deer double from October to December compared to the rest of the year.

A helmet is more than a lifesaving precaution. With many different manufacturers and styles, it can also be an extension of your personality. You can stand out or look coordinated with your ride. When it comes to choosing the right helmet, it's important to think about the type you want.

Whether you are going on a weekend getaway, or a week long road trip, packing can get tough. Here are some packing tips to save you some time and space.

    A dual clutch transmission (DCT) is an automatic transmission that uses two separate clutches, one for odd gears and the other for even gears. In 2009, Honda's VFR1200F was released with an optional DCT. This was groundbreaking in the world of motorcycles and it wasn't alone for long. In 2012, it was followed by the NC700 line, and again in 2013, with the CTX700. Recently, the 2016 Africa Twin came with a DCT option that included more than 80 combinations of drive modes. When the mode strikes, the bike can be easily switched to manual mode for standard shifting.

    Honda's DCT is more than just a technological advancement, it could be the future of motorcycle riding. Owning a bike with an automatic transmission means bringing the joy of riding to the forefront of your experience. More thought can be put into traffic conditions, turning, and braking. A DCT does not mean giving up control, but taking control to a new level.

Honda has created a website dedicated to it's DCT. You can visit it at http://en.honda-dct.com/ to see how riders from around the world enjoy riding shift-free.