Honda VFR800

We test tires because you just never know. Bikes are different, riders are different, seasons are different and as we are finding out, tires are different. Much, much different. We test tires by attempting to control for everything- riding the same bikes, at the same time, with the same riders and same fuel loads following each other all season. We even order the same coffee, all in the name of accuracy. Sometimes the results are predictable and other times, as in this test, the results are shocking.

Nine Ways To Miss

by Ted Edwards | Jul 28, 2023 | Ride Life, Rides & Roads | 9 |

I miss the anticipation of the trip, the packing, the excitement of cramming my saddlebags full of warm clothes and strapping camping gear everywhere until it was heavily laden like a Yukon bound pack mule seeking a golden fortune. However, instead of heading for the frozen north, we were pointing our front wheels south to mine our memories from the golden shores of the Pacific Coast Highway. Levering my weighty bike off the kickstand and thumbing the starter felt like a leap into the unknown, the first steps of a thousand mile journey, my Honda VFR’s repaired electrics held together by electrical tape and happy thoughts, partly because I got lazy, party because it finally worked and I didn’t want to mess with it lest the whole mess unravel.

Red Light Blues

by Ted Edwards | Jun 26, 2023 | Nuts & Bolts, Ride Life | 4 |

The red fuel injection warning light came on. The engine died. Time slowed.
In motorcycling physics, miles per hour equals radius. More speed means a wider circle. Cut throttle (or have sudden power loss) and your circle tightens immediately. Engine power that had been keeping me passing the tanker truck around the outside abruptly left like a girlfriend scorned, and my radius tightened towards the tanker truck on my right.

Dunlop Roadsmart IV vs Pirelli Angel GT- 2022 Results

by Ted Edwards | Nov 2, 2022 | Bikes & Gear | 39 |

The only way to scientifically compare the mileage of one motorcycle tire versus another and finally put the mileage question to rest forever is to completely control for every single variable: bike, rider, terrain, weight, speed, inflation pressure, etc..which is impossible for an average rider.
Unless you work for Road Dirt Motorcycle Media. Because we do those things.

Decisions, Decisions

by Ted Edwards | Aug 30, 2022 | Ride Life | 5 |

The Wild Rose Squad’s annual motorcycle pilgrimage to Nelson, BC is sacred. Nothing keeps us from Nelson, except however, border guards. I found that one out the hard way last year, but that is a story for another time. If I do somehow manage this year to not be asked very politely to make an immediate u-turn and Leave Canada Right Now Sir, my next conundrum is which bike to take. I have three compelling choices with reasons for and against. Help me decide.