By Larry Gore
LoneStarBiker — First Edition
Printed pages: 22-23
Signal Sorcerer
Tripping the Light – Fantastic!
It was a hot day – a very hot day. Our motorcycle was in the left lane waiting for a left-turn signal. By the third time the lights had totally cycled through their sequence I realized that we were not to get a left turn arrow.
The traffic was clear in both directions when I made my move and turned left against the signal – the sound of the siren was almost instantaneous.
A moving violation ticket, points against my driver's license and a possible increase in my insurance rates all because of a technical problem with the traffic signal.
It was one of those cutout rectangles in my lane — you know, the sensors that they put in to give the green light for left turns only when needed. Technically they are called inductive loops, these electromagnetic sensors designed to detect vehicles and provide a signal. The problem is that they don't always detect lightweight cars or motorcycles.
The $150 ticket that I paid almost 15 years ago was something I never forgot. After that I was very careful to come to a complete stop, look both ways and then check for cops before making the left turn.
Now, I have found something better — the Signal Sorcerer. Less than one ounce and only about 2 inches in length this device connects to the under frame of the motorcycle and generates a powerful field which radically increases the inductance of the loop. More simply it lets the sensor know you are there and you need to get a signal.
The reaction time of the light varies depending on the traffic volume of the intersection but the Signal Sorcerer will trip the signal for you the same as if you were in a two ton truck.
The gadget costs about $25, it pays for itself quickly in reduced frustration, and is a lot cheaper than a ticket. The Signal Sorcerer makes a great — and much appreciated gift.
Purchase information is online at www.SignalSorcerer.com.
Cycle Dry
A clean bike is a beautiful thing but a lot of work. After washing the bike it is important to dry all of the water spots before they leave their vicious little footprints on your chrome or custom paint.
One homegrown solution at my house has been to dry the water off the bike with my leaf blower before starting the tedious work of shining, cleaning and polishing. But leaf blowers are usually dirty and the last thing an expensive paint job needs is small particles of sand or dirt hitting it at speeds well over 100 mph.
Cycle Dry has the solution – a small, powerful, lightweight version of a blower that has only one job – to dry your motorcycle. The unit is small enough to fit in a saddlebag and as powerful as a leaf blower. The Cycle Dry will do the job quickly, cleanly and efficiently. At $39.95 it is another Great Gift Idea!
Purchase online at www.CycleDry.com
Bikini-To-Go
Packing a motorcycle for a trip, or just an outing, requires careful planning. Even the biggest dressers have limited space for packing.
Recently we saw a “swimmingly” good idea a one-size-fits-most bikini in a bag.
The multi-piece ensemble includes a 2-piece spandex swimsuit, a sarong, a scrunchy and a drawstring bag.
An attractive selection of color/print patterns is available including paisley, camo, rebel flag and an American Flag design.
A Great Gift Idea!
The Bikini-To-Go is available online at www.zanheadgear.com
Map Maps
Motorcyclists dream of taking the “big trip”. Getting out on the open road and traveling with the wind in your face, taking the time to explore, seeing something more than freeway signs and glass-and-plastic fast food places. Planning a trip by motorcycle has some special challenges. Bikers want roads that are fun to ride, businesses that are biker friendly and places to stop and play.
Created by back road enthusiasts and veteran riders, MAD MAPS provides the ultimate self-guided touring experience for motorists who want to explore the hidden treasures along America's scenic backroads. The maps feature detailed text directions, descriptions, and mileage markers serving all motorists: the motorcyclist, the driver and the ATV (all terrain vehicle) enthusiast. They also include information on local eateries, roadside attractions, gas stations, and campsites — as well as safety tips, historical insights, and geographical information. In short, MAD MAPS delivers a unique experience by combining the quality cartography of an Atlas with the kind of information usually reserved for travel guides.
The first maps completed have been the California dreaming series. Mad Maps will soon release maps covering Appalachia, Four Corners and the Southwest. A catch-all map “Motorcycle Madness USA” will cover some of the best motorcycling roads in the U.S. along with information on major rallies and other biker events throughout the country.
Another Great Gift Idea from the Lone Star Biker.
Mad Maps are available online at www.MadMaps.com.