Best Motorcycle Chain Lube (Review & Buying Guide) in 2023

Summary List 

Our Methodology

I have used each of these lubricants over the course of a couple years in off- and on-road environments across California. The motorcycle used is a 2014 Triumph Tiger 800 XC with a 525 DID X-ring chain. The chain was inspected every 1,000 miles for wear and corrosion. The products were applied every 400 to 600 miles in rotation over the course of 6,000 miles. 

The lubricants were selected based on my access to each of them and on the recommendations of colleagues, friends, fellow riders in the motorcycle industry. Each of these brands are dedicated to the research and development of high-quality lubricants specific to the maintenance of motorcycles. Most importantly, each was selected because it was designed to be used on O-ring and X-ring chains.

The tested lubes are by no means the only good products out there. Ultimately, it comes down doing your research, and checking out this list of great lubricants goes a long way in that respect.

Best Motorcycle Chain Lube Reviews & Recommendations

Specs

  • Size: 13.5 ounces
  • Type: Liquid
  • On or Off-Road: Both

Pros

  • Adheres to chain under high load
  • Protects against corrosion
  • Above average protection when exposed to water
  • Resists dirt and grime buildup

Cons

  • Premium price point
  • White film residue

Bel-Ray Super Clean comes in a 13.6-ounce aerosol container and is one of the pricer chain lubricants on the market. Super Clean utilizes the latest innovations in chain lubricant technologies for street, off-road or racing.

Bel-Ray’s motorcycle chain lube utilizes a high-vapor-pressure solvent that allows the lubricating chemicals to penetrate into the load-carrying areas of the chain, such as rollers, bushings, and plates. It creates a coating similar to chain wax but is more effective and less prone to centrifugal forces. The film dries white and can be seen over the course of its application, so when it fades the rider knows it’s time to clean and lubricate the chain again.

Specs

  • Size: 13.5 ounces
  • Type: Liquid
  • On or Off-Road: Both

Pros

  • Suitable for standard, O, X and Z-Ring chains
  • Suitable for long distance all weather on/off-road riding
  • Detachable nozzle straw allows for pinpoint application
  • Contains UV over spray dye

Cons

  • Sticky and attracts dirt and grime in off-road applications

Muc-Off All-Weather Chain lube features a unique water-repellent, ceramic, non-fling formula that penetrates deep into the chain link. It also includes a dye that becomes visible under UV light. This allows the applicant to check chain coverage and also wipe away overspray.

Muc-Off deserves credit for its corrosion protection, lubrication, and adherence in a multitude of climates and riding conditions. The integrated UV dye is a great additional feature for riders with colored-themed chains who do not wish to leave a film on the chain like Bel-Ray’s Super Clean but retains the means to check coverage with a UV lamp.

Specs

  • Size: 9.8 ounces
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Best Motorcycle USB Chargers (Review & Buying Guide) in 2023

Summary List

Best Motorcycle USB Chargers: Reviews & Recommendations

The BlueFire Dual USB Charger is one well-rounded and high-quality option for a motorcycle USB charger. It’s convenient and easy to install, and it makes charging any device pretty effortless when you’re on the go. This charger is actually more than just a single USB charger; it’s both a dual USB charger and a cigarette lighter socket in a single device. You can charge two devices via USB at the same time, and if you need to add another charger you can easily do so via the cigarette lighter socket. The entire unit is built for the open road and outdoors, made from ABS material that’s fire-retardant, temperature-resistant, and anti-corrosive. It’s also waterproof, thanks to the included waterproof USB cover and cigarette lighter cover. The handy voltmeter allows you to see the voltage while you’re using the charger, which is convenient as you monitor your motorcycle’s battery. And the easy wire and handlebar attachment options also make it simple to set up.

While the Yonhan Motorcycle USB Charger isn’t the cheapest option on our list, it offers excellent value with a whole host of features for a budget-friendly price. This motorcycle charger will get your devices recharged in no time at all, thanks to its PD and QC 3.0 high-output charging support via the two USB ports. You can charge up to two items at once, and you’ll be able to connect different devices simultaneously — like an iPad, iPhone, digital camera, and other tech gadgets. The speedy charger includes an SAE to USB adapter and a built-in voltmeter that monitors the battery and your motorcycle’s electrical system automatically. You’ll also enjoy three different installation options, which means you can choose the best placement and method for your needs and your motorcycle. One additional little perk you’ll also love is the on/off switch. Most chargers are unplugged when they aren’t needed, but thanks to that switch, this one can stay right in place and simply be shut off.

If you need a USB charger that works on a wider voltage range, you might find the Mic Tuning charger ideal for the task. It’s a device that works at the 12-24-volt range and has an output of 2.1 amps. The charger is suitable for different motorcycle types and can power up smartphones, tablets, and other gadgets. The main benefit of this device is its sturdy construction. The high-quality ABS and copper materials are impressively durable. The charger is waterproof and resistant to heat, corrosion, and other threats. Also, you have two connection options. You can plug it directly into the motorcycle battery or use the SAE power adapter. The mounting process is a breeze as well. All you need to do is to make a few holes or use adhesive tape. Although it’s compatible with a wide voltage range, the charger might be slower than other options on the market. That might be the biggest drawback along with the higher current draw

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Best Motorcycle Cover (Review & Buying Guide) in 2023

Summary List

Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.

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Our Methodology

To choose the best motorcycle covers on the market, I employed The Drive’s comprehensive research methodology and evaluated dozens of covers before choosing the top contenders. Although I haven’t personally tested these products, my selection is informed by consumer testimonials, expert reviews, discussions on relevant online forums, and my institutional knowledge of the automotive industry. 

Best Motorcycle Cover Reviews & Recommendations

Dowco is one of the oldest names in the game, and the Guardian Weatherall Plus is its top model in terms of protection. This cover is made from 300-denier woven polyester, which has a UV-resistant solution-dyed fabric treatment to prevent fading and protect your bike from the sun’s harmful rays. It uses Dowco’s exclusive ClimaShield Plus fabric to make it one of the most waterproof covers on the market. Further improving this cover’s ability to keep your bike dry are heat-sealed waterproof taped seams. This cover remains breathable thanks to its GuardVent System, which is 195 percent larger than the previous version.

There’s a heat-resistant aluminized material across the lower half of this model on both sides, which helps prevent hot exhaust pipes from damaging it. Keeping the cover secure is a sewn elastic shock cord and under-bike web strap. There are also sewn-in holes for a wheel lock and a pocket that enables you to use the Guardian Alarm (sold separately) for added security. An interior liner protects the windshield from scratches, but at this price point, it would be nice to have a larger liner. You don’t need to take off the entire back section to access rear luggage, thanks to this model’s easy access zips. It comes with a limited lifetime warranty, so you know it’s built to last.

Specs

  • Brand: Dowco
  • Model: Guardian Weatherall Plus
  • Waterproof: Yes

Pros

  • 300 denier polyester
  • UV-resistant Color-Lok fabric treatment
  • GuardVent System
  • Waterproof Clima Shield Plus fabric and heat-sealed, taped seams
  • Limited lifetime warranty

Cons

  • Highest-end of the price spectrum

If you need a high-quality motorcycle cover but are working off a tight budget, pick up the Nelson Rigg Deluxe All Season Cover. This Tri-Max polyester cover is on the lower end of the price spectrum, but it’s still relatively durable and comes with a two-year warranty. Although this model is advertised as an all-season cover, it’s really designed for light to mild outdoor weather conditions. The material is UV-treated and water-resistant, so it’ll provide OK protection if there’s light rain, but this isn’t the cover for anyone who leaves their bike outside during a harsh winter.

There’s a ventilation system to promote air circulation and minimize condensation buildup, so you shouldn’t find any mold or mildew when you pull the cover off.

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GKN automotive business enterprise falls 20% on first working day of London buying and selling

Shares in GKN’s automotive arm fell by a fifth on Thursday pursuing its debut on the London Inventory Trade.

The listing of the newly named Dowlais, which will make parts for motor vehicles, from car facet-shafts to expert axles for electric powered products, was meant to be a boon for the trade, which has struggled to draw in intercontinental corporations.

But shares fell by 20 per cent on the opening day of buying and selling, having the benefit of the enterprise down to £1.6bn.

The company was obtained by detailed turnround specialist Melrose Industries as element of its $11bn 2018 offer to invest in battling engineer GKN.

Listing the company indicates breaking up the historic GKN, which also owned an aerospace arm.

Dowlais main executive Liam Butterworth explained to the Economical Moments that the selection by Melrose to checklist the organization in London manufactured sense as it was “technically a demerger” and the bulk of Melrose investors were being based mostly in the Uk.

“GKN is a conventional British engineering enterprise with a definitely prolonged heritage, extended than the London Stock Exchange itself, so we’re really proud to be bringing it on to the inventory market place in the Uk,” he extra.

Simon Peckham, main govt of Melrose, not too long ago credited the London sector for remaining a top variable in the FTSE 100 conglomerate’s progress with investors supporting its fairness raisings.

The IPO arrives as force is rising on the London marketplace to compete with world rivals, right after quite a few significant-profile corporations opted to float internationally.

Arm, the British chip giant whose shares traded in the United kingdom ahead of its 2016 acquisition by SoftBank, has resolved to record shares in the US.

The selection was a blow offered strain from numerous successive United kingdom prime ministers to catch the attention of the Cambridge-dependent group to London.

Previous month CRH, the world’s greatest building business, also chose the US more than London, in element for the reason that buyers provide better multiples, while a best fund supervisor explained the London sector as “a backwater” between worldwide fairness markets.

Butterworth mentioned the Dowlais listing gave the company the freedom to do takeover specials with rivals, while the enterprise had to “earn the right” to do potential promotions, a approach that could just take numerous yrs.

Many of its goal businesses are very likely to be in the US, where by the team presently has considerable functions. Less than Butterworth, Dowlais has shifted its world-wide footprint to enable it to offer you the similar goods in every single location even though complying with amplified trade barriers including the new US Inflation Reduction Act.

The Dowlais demerger leaves Melrose with GKN’s aerospace enterprise, which Melrose aims to mature to building £1bn of profit in the coming decades.

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5 Tips on Buying a New or Utilised Vehicle Amid Inflation

Salesman giving crucial to female car or truck purchaser

The world is in a international economic downturn now, with skyrocketing costs of everything from groceries to homes. The motor vehicle business is a single of the most difficult hits by burgeoning expenses due to semiconductor shortages and source chain issues. The demand from customers for cars and trucks has rebounded put up-pandemic, but the stock remains brief, ensuing in even far more inflationary force. Any person looking for a new or made use of car or truck is acquiring a tough time. If you successfully purchase a car, you should think about using advantage of the best prolonged vehicle warranty to defend your financial commitment.

Auto buyers must expect fierce competition for new automobiles as automakers battle to meet the market’s requires. With stock shortages, it is a seller’s marketplace suitable now. In simple fact, even costs for old cars have spiked so higher that some three-12 months-previous vehicles could price tag just as substantially as a new one particular, based on the make and product. When browsing for a new or utilised car or truck, you ought to contend with markups, tiny special discounts, a lack of promos, and limited selections. There is also more pressure for you to transfer on with the invest in. Taking into consideration all these, listed here are five strategies on acquiring a new or used motor vehicle amid inflation.

Determine Out Financing Forward

Considering the fact that levels of competition is intense, you must determine out your budget and how much auto price tag you can pay for. Chorus from borrowing excessively because a auto is a depreciating asset. It’s not clever to get a bank loan with jacked-up desire charges and weak terms given that the vehicle will drop price in the upcoming pair of several years. Prearrange financing based on what you can make as down and monthly payments. And make it a point to read through the mortgage terms and circumstances.

Doing the job with your lender or credit union before procuring all around in a vendor or applied car or truck lot would be best. With this on hand, you’ll have a baseline to evaluate vendor financing or secondhand car or truck financial loans. What’s more, you can instantly snap up the car you like if you arrange funding forward. Yet again, it’s a difficult industry now, so there may not be substantially area for negotiation as opposed to a long time back again. It is ideal to come ready.

Study Beforehand

Regardless of whether you’re purchasing for a new or new-to-you auto, the supplier may possibly not have what you are searching for in stock. Ahead of you head out and waste fuel going close to city, it’s a good thought to verify the web-site and simply call purchaser company to see what they have. In today’s difficult marketplace, it is a large probability that the dealer does not have what you are hunting for. Far more importantly,

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Four guidelines for buying a used car or truck

  • Mary Pollard is the vice president of Customer Lending at Ascend Federal Credit Union.

There might finally be mild at the stop of the tunnel for Middle Tennesseans who are in the marketplace to buy a utilized car or truck. Rates for pre-owned vehicles skyrocketed throughout the pandemic, but have fallen for 4 consecutive months in accordance to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ April Shopper Rate Index.

After peaking in January, employed car or truck and truck prices declined .2% in February, 3.8% in March and .4% in April. Prices flattened in Could, but customers however paid $60 much less than the earlier thirty day period. 

Whilst that is without a doubt good news, pre-owned auto price ranges are even now much more than 11% higher than a yr back, in accordance to Manheim’s Employed Auto Price Index. Kelley Blue Guide places the typical rate of a utilised vehicle at about $28,312.  

With the price ranges steadily trending downward, additional shoppers are searching for utilized vehicles and vehicles. Dealertrack, a leading automotive application and information examination company, says financial loans for employed cars and vans improve 10% calendar year right after yr. Desire for utilized car loans by our credit history union associates is even higher. 

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Listed here are four suggestions to help Center Tennesseans make a clever purchase on a applied vehicle: 

1. Know what you can afford 

In advance of choosing which type of utilised motor vehicle to invest in, you should initial determine out your spending budget. Evaluate your income, bills and any personal debt obligations to make certain the rate range for your wanted car fits your finances.

Make certain to factor in other costs this sort of as gas mileage, insurance coverage, maintenance and repairs. Don’t forget the desire you may pay back each and every thirty day period if you are taking out a loan. 

This will give you get a total photo of the believed charges of owning and functioning your motor vehicle. 

2. Analysis utilized automobile and truck prices 

Understanding is ability, so just before you step on to an car dealer’s lot, it will support to be common with the charge of the make and product of the car you want to obtain.

There are loads of great on the net methods: Edmunds.com and kbb.com, for case in point, to get you started. Those websites also offer content articles on how to negotiate with sellers. 

You can also visit online sellers such as Autotrader.com, Cars.com, CarMax or Carvana, when comparison shopping. 

Listen to from Tennessee’s Black Voices: Get the weekly e-newsletter for effective and significant considering columns.

3. Get preapproved for a loan 

Since of the heightened need for utilized automobiles, you could be competing with numerous other customers for popular motor vehicles. To give oneself an edge, get pre-accredited for an auto mortgage if you are borrowing to make the order.

Mary Pollard

A preapproval will enhance

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