| DUAL SPORT ADVENTURES | 3/14 - Thursday 6:30pm |
| JILL OLIVER RFH SEMINAR | 3/21 - Thursday 6:30pm |
| PLANNING THE EURO RIDE | 3/28 - Thursday 6:30pm |
| DAVID HOUGH SEMINAR | 3/30 - Saturday 10:00am |
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Visit our Ride West calendar of events for all the details.
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Thursday evening programs are registered on our web site calendar, and carry with them a $10 charge that defrays most of the cost of the pizza and pop served. We have the pizza ready at 6:30pm, and the seminars run from 7pm to about 9pm.
Saturday morning seminars are free and do not need registration. Coffee, pop, and perhaps some doughnuts are provided - but no pizza!
Here's what coming. For any that you like, send an e-mail to team@ridewest.com with the number of people in your party. The $10 will be paid at the door in cash or check (no credit cards, please, as the store is close.) We've dropped the PayPal registration, as many people hated it!
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SEMINAR SEASON DESCRIPTIONS
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03/07/13 2FAST TRACK DAYS - Mark DeGross
One of the best places to improve your riding skills is on a race track - at whatever pace you and your motorcycle prefer. Mark DeGross is the owner of 2Fast Racing, which puts on the best track day events in this state, for riders of all experience levels on any motorcycle. This will be an excellent intro for anyone who wants to try this and a good review for previous participants warming up for the 2013 season. Mark is also the #1 plate holder this year for WMRRA, but more importantly, he is an excellent speaker, teacher, and listener. Bring Questions!
03/14/13 DUAL SPORT - Dave Petersen/Steve Irby
At present, the backbone of much of the BMW lineup, dual sport riding and the "adventure lifestyle" are more and more of an attraction. These two experts will show you how to do it, and tell you (ahem) where to go!
03/21/13 RIDERS FOR HEALTH AFRICA ADVENTURE - Jill Oiver
Jill Oliver has been there and done that. This will be an exciting slide show as she covers how to get to Africa; what you'll see, how to ride with Randy Mamola, and how to help Riders for Health!
03/28/13 PLANNING THE EURO TRIP - TIM BOWMAN
Want to gallivant around Europe and have the adventure of a lifetime? Tim has been there and done that a few times, and will tempt you with slides and a lot of practical advice on how you make your dream a reality.
03/30/13 DISTRACTED RIDING - DAVID HOUGH
How many electronic farkles can you add to your bike before the distractions are too much? The popular myth is that we can "multitask", or think about several different things simultaneously. Brain researchers now report that we don't actually process several tasks at once--rather, we think of only one mentally demanding task at once, and quickly switch between tasks. What can you do to minimize the risks of adding multiple devices to the bike?
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By Dave Preston | Media and Events
Saturday, March 16th brings us the R-IDES of MARCH for the 11th year in a row, placed as close to the 15th of March (the "ides") as possible. All proceeds are sent to Riders for Health.
For information on why donating to Riders for Health is a good idea, please visit www.riders.org. Riders for Health is supported by motorcyclists all over the world, and due to the background and friendships of its founders, by most Moto GP, WSBK, and Formula 1 teams.
Entry fee is a recommended donation of $10 (more welcome!) to Riders for Health, and your donation is tax deductible. If your company has a corporate matching program for charities, that would be terrific as well!
Following registration, you'll be given a set of route directions that are more specific than what is usually provided for our rides, and be off on an adventure of a few hours that will send you down a great riding road or two you may never have known existed.
.. read more.
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PICTURE CONTEST WINNER #5!
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Kurt Langston wins the photo contest for this shot of Anand Namasivayam and his BMW F 800 GS having a great time. Kurt wins a snazzy Team Ride West shirt - and that means entries are now invited from you for the April newsletter photo of the month contest! Whatcha' got?
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by Mark Eddy | Ride West BMW Service Manager
With March finally here and more sunny riding days heading our way, chances are good that the decision to take a ride will strike out of nowhere. Hoping the battery has enough juice to start your motorcycle shouldn't be the foremost thought in your head. Neither should wondering if the tires have enough air in them. A pre-season check, done now, before you are ready to head out on a ride, is a must if your motorcycle has been in the garage waiting for that first sign of the coming riding season. Coming from a year-'round rider, it's been quite a while since the last warm, sunny day. That winning combination along with some dry pavement get me excited just writing about it.
So while you're plugging in the battery charger, check your tires for cracking, make sure the pressures are safe, and take some time to inspect your brakes, fluids and the overall condition of your bike. You may also be due for that yearly oil change as well, so if you want us to do the checking for you, just give us a call and we'll get your motorcycle ready for the sunshine!
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PRODUCT REVIEW: BMW F 700 GS
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Ah, the mystery of the BMW F 700 GS!
First of all, there can be little argument that BMW invented the dual-sport genre of motorcycles. Many would go so far as to state that the dual-sport concept saved the company, as the R-based models sold well when introduced (at a time when nothing much else was) and have become a mainstay of the product line. For simplicity I will define a "dual sport" as a motorcycle that can be ridden off-road, but also licensed and ridden on public paved roads.
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SAFETY CORNER.. HOW TO CROSS BORDERS
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Tad and Gaila are Ride West customers off on a ride - for a year. Here's their latest installment of adventure reporting. Their blog posts keep getting better and more fascinating!
When you hear the words "border crossing" what do you think of? Let your mind wander for a moment, I know I used to. Sometimes I use to think it was nothing but machine-gunned soldiers and angry public servant workers that had nothing better to do than make my day hell. If not worse. Sometimes visions of doing something really wrong crept into my mind and I began to wonder if a 3rd world prison was in my future.
 Fortunately, at least so far, none of that is true. Indeed, as Gaila and (www.overlandnow.com) have traveled through North and Central America it has surprisingly been the US border crossing that seem to be the most stressful. Maybe it is just me, but that seems odd. Why do I get the third degree coming back into my own country? Why don't I get that big smile and a "welcome home" greeting? Now, some of that opinion comes from previous journeys around the world - some overland and some via air. Traveling cross the Mexican, Belize, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua borders so far has given me a new appreciation for my fellow man. Tomorrow I can add Costa Rica to this list.
.. read more.
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TUESDAY - FRIDAY:
9am to 6pm
SATURDAY: 9am to 5pm
SUNDAY & MONDAY: CLOSED
WE SERVICE ALL MAKES AND MODELS!
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Come in for some great deals on used bikes of all brands, or register with us to sell your own! To register your bike and get the details, please call (206) 527-5511 and ask for Sales. This event is a great sale for customers, but also a pretty interesting show! Join the fun!
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Say you're chatting with friends about the varied events and rides you're enjoying with Team Ride West. Say further that these friends ask you, "What makes Ride West different?" Here are concepts we would thank you for putting across - the "Magnificent Seven."
1. With Team Ride West, more rides, dinners, and events than anyone else.
2. More in-store sales, swap meets, seminars, classes, etc. than anyone else.
3. Ability to purchase insurance for your bike, home, and auto - all in-house.
4. More demo bikes, longer demo rides, and even guided multi-bike demo rides.
5. Our track school and track day support program.
6. Service Department capable and happy to work on any brand.
7. Wide assortment of used bikes of all brands.
WE BUY BIKES,
LOVE TRADE-INS,
AND CONSIGNMENTS!
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Come in for some great deals on used bikes of all brands, or register with us to sell your own! To register your bike and get the details, please call (206) 527-5511 and ask for Sales. This event is a great sale for customers, but also a pretty interesting show! Join the fun!
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IN THE PARTS DEPARTMENT..
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NEW PRODUCTS IN STOCK NOW!
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Rev'it! Sand 2 - Those looking for a jacket to wear on an around-the-world trip need look no further than the Rev'it! Sand 2. The already popular Sand jacket has been improved with a bevy of innovative new features. The jacket features adjustable VCS zippers that increase ventilation by 200 percent over the original! Plus, it has a wind-catcher feature integrated into the zipper for even greater airflow. The jacket is compatible with both Leatt® and MOVEO® neck brace systems, the latter of which conveniently stays attached when taking the jacket on and off. The Sand 2 also comes with a connection zipper. This makes it easy to connect the jacket with compatible Rev'it! trousers and eliminates any gap that would allow water to creep in. With the inner membrane removed, the outer shell can be upgraded with a Challenger cooling vest insert. The Sand 2 comes with CE shoulder and elbow protection and integrated reflective panels for nighttime visibility, or add the hi-viz Vest Connector HV for even more conspicuity. By the time you read this, we'll have it in stock!
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Shoei GT-Air Full Face Helmet - Sunvisor and Pinlock ® Included! In the pursuit of excellence in motorcycle helmet creation, SHOEI continues to strive to develop the most stylish, versatile and technically advanced protective head gear that riders have come to expect. Taking into account that comfort and convenience are key to a quality riding experience, SHOEI introduces the GT-Air, a lightweight full-face helmet with improved ventilation, a fully removable noise-reducing interior, a built-in sun visor and a distinctively stylish shell that is as good looking as it is integral to its performance while on the road. The CNS-1 shield includes built-in pins for a Pinlock® anti-fog lens (included), which transform single shields into dual shields that resist fog buildup. The lens has been designed to cover a larger area on the shield, increasing peripheral vision in the event of fog buildup. This feature rich helmet builds on the success of 2 other noteworthy full face helmets, the very popular RF1100 and Qwest (both available at Ride West BMW). Now in stock!
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Schuberth C3 Pro Modular Helmet - The First High Speed Flip-Up Helmet with Internal Antenna! Light, quiet, compact - these features have characterized the Schuberth C3 flip-up helmet for years. Now Schuberth is presenting a completely updated premium partner to the base model C3 - the C3 PRO. The C3 PRO features a molded rear spoiler developed in the Schuberth wind tunnel for minimizing buffeting at higher speed riding. The internal antenna and Bluetooth® receiver enhance the communication range up to ½ mile and FM radio reception for the Schuberth Rider Communication System (optional). The refined inner lining offers a plush, comfortable fit. The new vent scoop boosts airflow through the helmet to over 2.5 gallons of air per second at 65 mph. With a wind tunnel tested sound rating of just 82 dB(A), the C3 PRO is the quietest Schuberth helmet ever. Now available in Silver and Matte Black!
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GoPro Hero 3 High Definition Video Camera - If you haven't heard of the GoPro line of cameras, you've probably been living under a rock. They are simply the best option for capturing hi-definition video for just about every outdoor adventure, especially motorcycling! Thinking of taking that cross country trip? Embarking on a Backroads Discovery Journey? Or perhaps your plans include other activities along the way like kayaking, sky diving or skiing? Mount the GoPro virtually anywhere, even on your body, and document your adventure! Capture all the best moments in stunning HD video. Take some hi-resolution photos along the way, automatically, with this versatile, expandable, all-weather camera by GoPro. Silver Edition Hero 3's have just arrived (best seller) and we should see the Black Edition within the next 2 to 4 weeks.
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REV'IT HORIZON WATERPROOF SUIT
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 Looking for a new suit? - Since its introduction last year, the REV'IT! Horizon has quickly become the suit of choice for those looking for a truly waterproof protective shell, with 4 season comfort, at an incredible value. Along with its laminated, waterproof, 600 denier outer shell, the jacket offers new technology that will help you take on any ride - anywhere, anytime, regardless of the climate conditions you might encounter. It will protect you from the heaviest rain; it also will be your best companion when the sun is high and the temperature is rising thanks to a truly unique solution, engineered by the REV'IT! development team - The VCS Aqua Defense System. It utilizes large air vent panels, featuring 3D mesh behind the panel to disperse a wider flow of air to the chest, which can then be sealed to 100% waterproof in a second, even while riding. Both the jacket and pants also include a removable thermal liner. At under $500.00 for the jacket ($800.00 including matching pants!), the Horizon is one of our faves. New jackets now in Stock: Black, Grey and Hi-Viz. |
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We're your authorized dealer for: Touratech, Giant Loop, Redverz Tents, Shoei Helmets, Rev'it!, BMW Rider's Gear, Rigid LED Lights, PIAA, Heidenau, AltRider, RAM, Wolfman Luggage, Pivot Pegz, Spiegler Brakes, K&N, Powerlet, Garmin, Sena, and Cardo Bluetooth Systems, Proxxon Tools, Ohlins Suspension, Ortlieb, Kriega, Tech Spech Tank Pads, Cruz Tools, Butler Maps, Backroads Discovery Route DVD's, Illium Works Highway Pegs, Ballistic Lithium Batteries, Adaptiv TPX Radar Detectors, CRG Aluminum, Vortex, Gilles Tooling, Machine Art Moto, Maier, Verholen, Martin Fabrication...ok, the list is longer but you get the idea.
Giant Loop Siskayou Panners are in stock now!
Of course we can't stock EVERYTHING in the store, and know that in today's marketplace you have many choices. But if there is something you're after that you don't see on the shelf, we'd love the opportunity to earn your business. We're your local, family owned motorcycle shop. We're also enthusiasts, just like you, and can offer the support and knowledge before and after the sale, whatever you decide to purchase. Questions on any of the brands listed above? Give me a call or email, and thanks as always for your continued support!
Ride Safe
Bill Niwa | Apparel and Accessories Manager
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On a motorcycle, she's crossed the USA multiple times, ridden up to Alaska, all over Europe, and traveled solo to Argentina in 2009. She rides and writes for a living, and leads a women's motorcycle tour that teaches and empowers women to tour in groups or alone.
Dear MotoAdventureGal:
I'd like to get new riding gear for the coming season. What should I look for?
MotoAdventureGal Says: We're lucky these days...with so many women riding and demanding quality gear, more companies are actually making gear to fit our curvy bodies. There are heaps of choices out there, and not all of it quality; so be sure to look at the components and not just the cost of the protective gear you purchase. Does it have real (CE approved with an EN number) armor? Are the seams reinforced? Is the core material of a quality that won't melt, tear, or otherwise break down if you happen to slide on the pavement? Is there good venting to keep you cool? Insulation or a liner to keep you warm? Is it waterproof to keep you dry, protected, and comfortable? Good gear costs money...that's a fact.
Joanne Donn publishes four great gear shopping tips on her web site www.GearChic.com: Rule #1 - Always judge proper fit on a motorcycle (or in riding position)
Rule #2 - If it's too comfortable, it's probably too big
Rule #3 - Fit, then budget
Rule #4 - Try on everything until you find the right shape/fit
I think these are good rules to live by. Joanne also has a blog post on finding plus-sized gear which some women will find quite helpful. I'm a budget traveler, but I do spend a hefty chunk on gear. Why? Because good gear that fits right is comfortable enough to ride in all day. It keeps me protected from the elements, and I know it will protect me when I need it to. I can't stress good fit enough-a sloppy fit won't keep the protective bits in the correct place when you need them to be there.
A while ago I wrote an article for www.WomenRidersNow.com highlighting all the women's gear on the market. It was the most comprehensive resource at the time, so that's a good place to start your brand research. Don't forget: ask your dealer what they have available. It's impossible for them to stock everything on the market, so if you find something you want to try, talk to your dealer. They need to know that female motorcyclists want good gear-that's ultimately how we get more choices for our unique bodies.
MAG's website is
www.MotoAdventureGal.com
and she can be reached at
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WHERE IN THE WORLD IS KEITH THYE?
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 Keith Thye is currently spending four months recreating a motorcycle trip that he and Dave Yaden took to South America fifty years ago (50 YEARS AGO!). That first trip was just Keith and Dave, and they were gone over eight months. The trip was rugged, the roads were awful, they camped nearly every night and did it on a shoestring. This time the trip will be different. There are six on the trip: Dave, who is nearly fluent in Spanish; Jim Balz, a doctor; Michael Hansen, a decent technician; Donn Harvey, a computer guy; his wife Deby on her own bike (always good to have a female along); and Keith, who claims to have absolutely no special skills at all. The roads will undoubtedly be much improved (most are paved now!), they're not taking camping gear, and should have sufficient money to do this thing right. There is no planned itinerary other than a general outline of following the earlier trip and they expect to be on the road for roughly 100 days, returning in late April or early May. For those of you wishing to follow the adventure, Donn and Deby Harvey will be publishing a blog at www.ADVdonnh.com. Dave Yaden also has a blog, and it is at Enjoy! |
8100 Lake City Way NE
Seattle, WA 98115
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Copyright © Ride West 2013. All Rights Reserved.
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