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Staring up into the pale gray sky, I thought I was back on the east coast, not the rolling landscape of Santa Barbara. Two local hikers approached from up the trail and I asked what happened to the Santa Barbara skyline. They advised it was June glum; a reference to the weather condition occurring every June when the fog rolls over the coastline to paint over the artistic colors of green landscape, and blue skies.

For this day, the Cat 3 riders were the beneficiaries of June glum at the Elings Park mountain bike race. The cool morning weather with thick fog was sure to minimize any dehydration problems for these MTB riders. For the Cat 1 riders who rode later in the day, the piercing sun awaited them with upper 70 degree temperatures.

The mountain bike race at Elings Park is one of the largest in the area, and sure to remind people that Santa Barbara is one of the best locations in California to take a trip with the family. With the majestic Pacific Ocean as a backdrop to the rolling green hills, bringing a camera is highly recommended.

To capture some speed in motion, I decided to bring out the video camera today. With its mix of single track trails and fire roads on a multi-lap course with plenty twist and turns, there would be many opportunities to capture some good footage.

For this course, a solid warm-up is mandatory. Within a short distance after the start, you are going vertical. The course climbs to the top of Elings Park, mainly on fire roads, and then adds single track trails at the top. On the second lap, the course changes at the beginning section as you tackle a winding trail with plenty of U-Turn climbs to the summit.

After shooting some video and photographs of the mountain bike competitors, I discovered a good shooting location on the climb of the second lap. So far, today was going well. I hadn’t fallen down any hills with my gear. But I realized later, the day was just beginning.

The bright sun welcomed the Cat 1 and 2 riders with high 70 degree weather. The goal for the day was to shoot these MTB racers up close so I trekked through the hills to find a good location and the heart beat of the Elings Park mountain bike race. After sliding down a couple of hills, I realized I created some new ventilation in my jeans…an eight inch gap from the crotch downward. Thankfully, any competitors coming my way only cared about one thing…going fast.

Once the mountain bike racers reached the top of the hill, they were given a spectacular view of the Pacific Ocean. However, the view was short lived due to the winding trails.

Deep in the bushes, I managed to find a good location to capture the MTB riders as they raced around me. I was in the zone, and focused.

Since I got all the race footage I needed, I finally took a look at my surroundings. It was then that I realized one of the few disadvantages of focusing too much. Surrounding my eight inch rip in my pant leg stood multiple poison ivy plants! The mountain bike race at Elings Park will never be forgotten. It reminded me that I too must keep my eye on the path before me.

If you are looking for a great race to take the family for a few days, the Elings Park mountain bike race is one of the best. Put together by Team Big Bear, the race is sure to challenge your mountain bike fitness level.

Staying on the trail is highly recommended.

Keith Rejino is a sports photographer for Dreamscape Images, a personal trainer, mountain biker and triathlete. His Socal Mountain Bike website provides mountain bike event coverage, training and sports nutrition tips for the mountain biker. For more mountain bike event coverage, check out Dreamscape Images MTB site.

Technorati Tags: bike, bike racing, cycling, exercise, fitness, mountain bike, mountain bike race, mountain bike racing, mtb race, sports competition, sports;

As a sport or a hobby, mountain biking can be split into 9 different categories.

These categories are very versed in what they offer. They are:

1. BMX
BMX is a style where the bikes offer 20 inch wheels. These bikes are commonly used at skate parks or with dirt jumps. Because of their smaller wheels and shorter wheel bases, BMX bikes are much easier to perform tricks and stunts with.

2. Cross country
This type of mountain biking involves riding your bike up and down hills. Although it’s the least extreme form of mountain biking, most cross country riders are very fit and go on long rides.

3. Cyclo cross
This is a cross between road and mountain biking. These riders have to go over obstacles, cross through rivers, and race on and off the course.

4. Dirt jumping
Dirt jumping involves jumping the bike over large man made dirt jumps then doing tricks while they are in the air. These jumps are normally close together so riders can go over six or more jumps in one run, gaining a flow to give them more speed for bigger jumps.

5. Downhill
Downhill mountain biking involves racing downhill as fast as possible. This type of riding is very intense and extreme, offering riders the chance for ultimate thrills and excitement.

6. Freeride
Free riding involves finding the perfect line down the mountain using all of the terrain to express yourself. These competitions are very popular, as riders can express themselves any way they see fit.

7. Single speed
Not to be confused with fixed gears, this is a form of cross country biking that’s done using a bike with only one gear and fewer components. The idea with single speed is simplicity. The straight chain line will provide efficient pedaling, and the lack of components mean less mechanical problems and a lighter bike.

8. Street and urban
This type of riding involves riding in urban areas, ledges, and other types of man made obstacles. Riders of street and urban biking will do tricks as well, such as stalls and grinds.

9. Trails
Trials are considered an aspect of mountain biking, although the bikes used look nothing like mountain bikes. They use 20 or 26 inch wheels and sport small, low frames. Trail riders will hop and jump their bikes over obstacles, which requires an extreme amount of balance and concentration.

Andrew Manifield
http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/types-of-mountain-biking-134993.html

Motorcycle safety clothing and why this is important

To improve motorcycle safety many countries order the wearing of protective clothing by motorcyclists, especially a helmet. Other protective equipment may include certain types of jackets, gloves, boots, and pants. Jackets meant for motorcyclists are typically made of nylon, leather, or Kevlar. These jackets usually include heavy padding on the elbow, spine, and shoulder regions. Gloves are generally made of leather or Kevlar and some include carbon fiber knuckle protection. Boots, especially those for sport riding, include reinforcement and plastic caps on the ankle and toe areas. A well-protected motorcyclist will wear boots with heels that fit on motorcycle foot rests (pegs) and provide good ankle support. Pants are usually leather, nylon, or Kevlar. Except for helmets, none of these items are required by law in any state in the U.S. but are recommended by many of those who ride.

Types of clothing

Leather Clothing:

Leathers are 1-piece suits, or 2-piece jackets and trousers worn by motorcyclists mainly for protection in a crash. The leather used is not fashion leather but protective leather which is stronger, rather flexible and much tougher. Both leathers and joins (seams and zips) should be officially tested for ergonomics and impact scrape, cut, tear and burst resistance. They do not have to be too heavy and there is no such thing as rivalry leather – just safe and unsafe leather and joins.

Typically, an accident at a race track will result in the racers sliding, rolling and tumbling for reasonably long distances and long times compared to an accident on the public road. This is because of the large safety run-off areas found on most race tracks; hence racers have a much lower probability of hitting hard vertical solid objects during a crash. Some racing leathers have additional protection properties to increase sliding and decrease bouncing and rotation. To decrease or prevent such injuries, most modern racing suits have an area that helps sliding at the knees, shoulders and elbows – often made of titanium or high-density plastic, so the rider slides more along the track environment and so decreases the bouncing and rotation through the air, which may cause inferior injuries from angular accelerations and rotational forces

Currently there are two major styles of motorcycle leathers: the tight fitting and sometimes colorful one or two piece suits based on motorcycle racing leathers; and the somewhat looser fitting leather trousers and jackets, usually black and often decorated with metal studs and tassels.

Textile Clothing:

Increasingly, motorcyclists are choosing protective equipment make up of man-made textiles rather than leather due to their improved weather protection from heat, cold, and water, and the increased value these garments tend to provide in terms of pockets and vents. Common materials include high density (600–1000 Denier) ballistic nylon (e.g., Cordura) and Kevlar (or blends of Kevlar, Cordura, and Lycra) and often include waterproof liners made from materials such as Goretex.

Motorcycling  Boots:

Boots are worn by motorcycle riders and passengers to prevent or diminish harm to their feet and ankles while riding and in the incident of a crash. Tough, strong, moderately flexible boots with rigid soles provide the rider protection from a number of risks. Boots with oil-resistant, rubber-based merged soles give a grip on the concrete and help keep the rider’s feet on the foot rests. If the boots have heels, they should be low and wide to provide a firm base when standing with the bike. In a crash, boots may avoid or reduce foot and ankle injuries.

Helmets:

A motorcycle helmet is protective head covering used by motorcycle riders. The primary target of a motorcycle helmet is to protect the rider’s head during impact, although many helmets provide additional protection such as a face shield. In some countries the wearing of motorcycle helmets is compulsory.

Helmets are made in 2 main layers: hard and energy-absorbing. The hard shell spreads an impact over a larger area, while the liner (often polystyrene foam) absorbs energy so less is transferred to the skull & brain

Gloves:

Motorcycling racing glove

Motorcycling gloves are typically gloves made of leather. They may have gauntlets to protect the rider’s wrists from injury, and help shrink drafts while riding in colder climates. Motorcycling gloves typically have reinforced palms anticipated to protect the rider from scratch injuries in case of an accident.

Optional characteristics include additional protection or weatherproofing. For touring gloves, such additional features may include advanced insulating materials and waterproof/breathable fabric, although touring gloves may still lack advanced armouring features used in motorcycle racing gloves.

Gloves intended for motorcycle racing typically feature precurved finger sections and the best available protection, obtained through additional armour incorporated within the glove. Although maximum tacility is an noticeable starting point for racing gloves, additional protection should not be discarded. Additional protection may involve titanium or carbon panels for knuckles and the joints of the fingers. Furthermore, racing gloves may and often do add in additional wrist and other protection panels to protect the heel of the hand, back of the hand and other easily injured parts of the hand.

faport
http://www.articlesbase.com/motorcycles-articles/motorcycle-safety-clothing-and-why-this-is-important-921166.html

In this article, we will provide you with some popular Christmas toy ideas that will help you hunt for 2008 hot Christmas toys.

Every year, the markets are flooded with different kinds of toys for Christmas. So, it becomes of prime importance to keep yourself updated, so as to make sure that whatever you are buying is in line with the trend. There were times, when kids were satisfied with any toy they got, but, today, they want the latest thing. They have become choosy about the toys also with which they are going to play. In the present times, it has become the most difficult task to convince kids into using something.

Now, pls Check out the following popular and hot Christmas toys for 2008.

1. Star Wars Toys

Star Wars is an epic science fantasy saga that has been revealed to the audience in the form of six movies. It was initially created by George Lucas and made a debut in 1977, with the last film being made in 2005. The animation movie ‘Star Wars: The Clone Wars’ came out in 2008. There will hardly be a child who is not a Star Wars fan and would not like to receive Star Wars toys as Christmas gift, be it the video games, action figures or other toys.

2. Doll with a Musical Potty

If your child is still an infant, who does not understand anything about video games or Playstation, then a doll with a musical potty is just the toy that you can gift him for Christmas. The crying, potty-going doll made its debut in 1991 and its latest version comes with a flashing, musical potty. The first doll to boast of ‘human functions’, it is expected to be one of the hottest-selling toys for Christmas 2008.

3. High School Musical Toys

‘High School Musical’ is the name of a very popular American television series that was released, for the first time, in 2006. Its sequel – ‘High School Musical 2′ came out in 2007, while 2008 saw the ‘High School Musical 3: Senior Year’ hitting the screen. Today, High School Musical toys rank amongst the most popular toys for Christmas. Right from the dolls based on ‘High School Musical’ to the video game series, you will find everything in the market.

4. Sesame Street Toys

‘Sesame Street’ is the name of an American educational children’s television series that premiered in 1969. The longest running children’s program on American television, it has been shown in 120 countries till date. No wonder, the toys based on ‘Sesame Street’ characters retain one of the position amongst the top 10 Christmas toys for 2008. Amongst them, the most popular is Elmo Live, an all-singing, all-dancing version of the red puppet.

5. Ben 10 Toys

Ben 10 has wooed the kids of today. The hero of an American animated television series, by the name of ‘Ben 10′, he made his debut on Cartoon Network in December 2005 and still has children going ga-ga all over him. Omnitrix, a watch-like alien device that transforms Ben into the alien of his choice, is the most popular Ben 10 toy amongst children. Apart from that, there are Ben 10 action figures, games and cards.

6. Cupcake Maker Toys

This Christmas, introduce your child to the joy of baking. How? By giving him/her a Cupcake Maker as Christmas toy. It will serve as an educational toy, making your children learn about the basics of cooking, such as measuring and mixing. At the same time, the Cupcake Maker will let them have lots of fun, just as a toy should be, by letting them decorate their cupcakes with various types of accessories, giving their personal touch to each.

7. Nintendo DS Gaming Consoles

Another one of the popular gaming consoles by Nintendo, DS is a dual-screen handheld console. Built along a clamshell design, the console has two LCD screens on the inside. While the upper one is used as viewing screen, the lower one acts as a touch-screen. It was released in 2006, as a slimmer, brighter, and more lightweight version of the Nintendo DS. Its latest version – Nintendo DSi has been released in Japan and will be available in other countries by mid-2009.

8. Doll Toys

If the recipient of Christmas toys is your daughter, then rest assured that dolls never ever go out of fashion. Whether it is Cinderella Barbie Doll, Baby Annabell Doll or Bedtime Lullaby Fifi Doll, dolls will always be amongst the best toys for your baby every year and that includes 2008 as well. Just make sure that you buy the latest model of the doll or the one that you Little Princess has been eyeing for a long time.

9. Bakugan Battle Brawlers Toys

‘Bakugan Battle Brawlers’ is a Japanese anime series that debuted on TV Tokyo in April 2007, on Teletoon in July 2007 and on Cartoon Network in February 2008. It revolves around a gang of children, called Battle Brawlers, who have the power to wield creatures known as Bakugan. Go ahead, buy a Bakugan game for your kid and see him beaming with happiness on Christmas.

10. Roary the Racing Car Toys

Children and cars have a long-term association and it was further strengthened by the debut of ‘Roary the Racing Car’, an animated children’s television show. Set around a motor racing circuit, called Silver Hatch, the series showcases the adventures of Roary, a red, single-seater racing car, and his race car friends. From Roary the Racing Car Sliver Hatch Turbo Race Set to Roary the Racing Car 10 inch Bike with Sounds, the options before you are many.

Krista QQ(www.123giftfactory.com)
http://www.articlesbase.com/gifts-articles/great-gift-ideas-for-children-hot-and-popular-christmas-toy-for-2008-701816.html

The categories of equipment for mountain bikes include a great number of subcategories. These subcategories include the bikes, frames, accessories, biking apparel, and even the separate components that make up the bikes. There are a number of items that you can get for mountain biking, so it is imperative that you know what you want. You first need to determine what kind of biking that you do. Do you mountain bike for fun or are you into it for racing? If you have just started your mountain biking adventure, then your first purchase will need to be a bike that will meet your needs and wants.

Clothing that is specially made for mountain biking is much looser than the other clothing made for cycling. The difference between mountain biking apparel and other biking apparel is very noticeable and easy to see. All kinds of cycling have one thing in common, however, and that is helmets. Helmets should be worn anytime you are on your bike. This will help to protect your head from the many hazards that may be on the trail.

There are accessories that can help make your biking safer for you, too. One of these accessories is mountain bike lights. If you are going to be riding at night, then you will need some kind of lighting on your bike, whether it is LED lights or other lights. Lights enable mountain bikers to enjoy the trail at any time of the day or night.

You can find your mountain bike supplies at your local bike shop or online at many different bicycling retailers. You can find everything that you need-from knee guards to full body guards to helmets to other apparel and accessories. The shops will be able to assist you to find mountain biking gear for any level of rider, from the casual to the more extreme enthusiast.

Protective gear is essential in mountain biking, especially. It will help you to withstand the rigors of mountain and downhill racing. Many different body armor pieces help to protect different parts of the body to make sure that you will be protected if you have an accident. This gear is specially made to protect you without taking away from the experience and fun of mountain biking.

The most important thing that you need to purchase to help keep yourself safe is a biking helmet. A helmet can keep you alive in this sometimes dangerous sport. No matter how small the race, biking helmets are required to help keep you safe. To keep your hands free from burns or blisters, you may want to choose some gloves. They serve a functional use as well, because they help to give you a much stronger grip on the handlebars for maximum control.

Mountain biking demands comfortable clothing. Most races occur during the summer, so shorts and t-shirts are the most commonly seen clothing, but during the winter months, you may see pants and sweatshirts. You are sure to find the perfect clothing to ride in no matter what time of the year to help you be comfortable and to look cool.

Alastair Hamilton
http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/equipment-for-mountain-bikes-102025.html

Kona mountain bikes are the specially designed mountain bikes manufactured by a bicycle company in the name of Kona Bikes. The company also has other product lines, which includes racing bicycles, frames, parts and accessories

The company has been dubbed as the “fun” bike company for its unconventional yet crazy bike names.

What’s more, it is believed that Kona is the first principal company to be “on board” as far as Freeride, or “North Shore” riding was concerned. Moreover, they are also known to produce some odd bikes that became instant hits in the market.

You must know that Kona bikes are more than suitable for UK weather conditions. No wonder, their mountain bikes have a huge market in U.K alone. Speaking of Kona bike range, you will find the Kona Stinky and not to mention the Kona Smoke are some of the best choices for the fanatic bike riders and novice cyclists.

Achievements

Believe it or not, Kona has manufactured a downhill bike that took the title of a Downhill World Champion twice. When it comes to cross country riding and cross-country racing you cannot do without Kona Bicycles. From designing to innovation, you will get it all with these bicycles. Although these kinds of races are really tough, Kona bicycles are equal to the task.

Durability and performance are the things that go hand in hand with Kona bikes and for this reason these bikes score high in dirt jumping. If you are seeking a bike for urban riding, then hit the road with Kona Asphalt. With Kona Asphalt, riding city streets becomes a child’s play.

Free riding bikes were always on demand and now with things going global, the demand has radically increased and Kona bikes have set the example worldwide especially as far as design is concerned.

The variety

The varied collection of mountain bikes from Kona has taken a considerable share of the market. For example Kona Lana I 2005 Mountain Bike, Kona Fire Mountain 2006 Mountain Bike, Kona Shred 2006 Mountain Bike, Kona Cinder Cone Sole 2007 Mountain Bike, Kona Unit 2007 Mountain Bike, Kona Kikapu-8 2007 Mountain Bike and all that have been instant hits.

If you have any queries about this company and it’s products, go through it’s shopping help web page to find answers. Another thing you should know is that Kona accepts sponsorship requests and resumes by email. You may also avail yourself to discounted bikes, so check it out with your local Kona dealers.

If you have already bought a Kona mountain bike then you can seek the customer service department for any queries and enhancements. Maybe, you want to install a DH fork, or a specific tire or may even want to include more suspension to your bike, the Kona people are always ready with their suggestions. All you need to mention is the type of bike, the date of manufacture and its serial number.

Robert Sheehan
http://www.articlesbase.com/fitness-articles/kona-mountain-bikes-biking-at-its-best-100977.html

Unlike mountain bike racing, the core of dirt jumping is the tricks. The jumps, the loops, the twirls in the air. When done properly, the sport looks almost like a dance; strong, artistic, and beautiful to watch. It takes years to reach a level where serious competition is possible and even then, without the right tricks, there is still the risk of losing.

Bike jumps, while not strictly considered part of the tricks the sport is famous for, are still considered the backbone of the sport. Since a lot of these tricks are performed midair, knowing how and when to jump is crucial for them to succeed. The amount of different jumps is astounding, and the most common of them is known as the double. It consists of two parts, the take-off and the landing, and is also known as the gap jump. Another jump that is important is the tabletop, and this is the jump those who vaguely know the sport recognize. It is three parts: take-off, table, and landing. The roller jump is based of this one.

The part dirt jumpers enjoy most though is the tricks, and they are also the most fun to watch. As long as you have a good grasp on how to do the jumps, these tricks will almost seem easy to you. The first trick is known as the tabletop but is different than the jump by the same name. It is performed by turning the side of the bike at a 90 degrees angle, either to the side or further up depending on your routine. The second is called the whip and, as its name suggests, depends on flipping the back of the bike to the side. There are many others, such as no hander where the jumper rides with both hands loose in the air, or suicide which is similar to the no hander but requires both hands to be stretched back as far as possible.

With the proper equipment these tricks, no matter how dangerous they may sound, may not result in serious injuries. Equipment in this case is not only the bike but protective gear as well. Shorts and a tight-fitted shirt to allow free movement, in addition to wrist supports and protective elbow and knee pads go a long way towards keeping the rider safe. A helmet is always a must, and goggles are recommended to keep the sand and sun out of your eyes.

Trevor Mulholland
http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/some-effective-dirt-jumping-tricks-103540.html

With the advent of technology, inventions increase with each passing day, and motorized inventions are no exception to that. One of the most outstanding inventions in the world of motorcycles is the super pocket bikes. These super fast, miniature motorcycles have become the latest fad today of every speed enthusiast.

Super pocket bikes are a smaller version for the super bikes used in racing. This mini-bike isn’t the only mini invention in the motor world. It shares spotlight with the dirt pocket bike – a mini version of the dirt bikes specially created for children, and the fast pocketbike – built for adventure seekers who love the thrill of riding on a pocket bike.

Super pocket bikes are just like the usual racing bikes except for the fact that they are much smaller yet still larger than the mini pocket bikes. Super “mini” pocket motorcycles are also equipped with automatic transmissions, disc brakes, powerful engines and super fast speed capacity.

Safety in riding the super pocket bikes has become a critical issue for most parents of younger pocket bike riders. It may appear that kids fit perfectly on the super pocket bikes more than the adults do. However, this does not specifically mean that kids are encouraged to ride the super pocket bikes. Though small in size, super pocket bikes are actually designed for the big people and not for the small kids. It is specially made for experienced pocket bike riders who wish to ride a faster pocket bike. But apparently, if kids are really eager to ride and use the super pocket bike, then they would need the permission and supervision of a responsible adult in order to do as they wish.

Here are some safety tips one should put in minds before riding on the super pocket bikes:

Should never be ridden on regular and national highways or streets.

Before riding, you must understand first your local rules and regulations.

Sshould only be used on tracks or locations made specifically for racing pocket bikes.

These pocket “rockets” can go as fast as 75mph, so it is advised that the rider should wear special protective equipment before riding the bike.

Do not ride any motorcycle (mini or not) in ride conditions that might impair your visibility or reaction time.

Joe Hayes
http://www.articlesbase.com/motorcycles-articles/safety-tips-for-using-super-pocket-bikes-715914.html

What are pocket bikes?

Pocket bikes or mini motos are small, speedy, gas powered motorcycles about 47 inches long and 18 inches tall. The smaller models reach a speed up to 35 mph while the superior models can achieve up to 50 mph. Earlier, pocket bikes were specially made and were costly but with these becoming popular, they are now more affordable. With the 47cc pocket bikes available now, you can choose among several varieties to suit your specific needs.

You can ride pocket bikes on tracks for competition or simply for fun. The sanctioning body, NAPRA was established to promote pocket bike racing and you can race on the pocket bikes with friends or in competitions. Go-kart tracks provide racetracks suited for pocket bikes.

The Different kind of Pocket Bikes with 47cc engine

There are many types of 47cc bikes to choose from. The Cagllari Daytona 47cc bikes are great value for money for the amateurs. For experienced racers, The Grand Prix MX3 with CAD is wonderful. The Blade version was built for hard track conditions and rough handling.

The pocket bike that gives the highest output is the Raptor with an increased torque but speed capacity intact. The GP RS-R is the modernist version in the 47cc models. This type of the 47cc bike offers a host of characteristics only found in larger versions of 47cc bikes.

The specifications for the standard 47cc bike include:

1. 47cc engine

2. Pull start method

3. 2 stroke oil and gas fuelled

4. 1 liter fuel capacity

5. Chain drive system

6. Speed of 35mph or over

7. 250 lbs load

8. Street terrain tires

9. Front and rear disc brakes

10. 40 lbs weight

11. Steel and plastic body

The Uniqueness of the Boreem 47cc Full Fairing Pocket Bike

This bike is unique as it has all the basic features and components, which are of excellent quality. Thus, its performance and reliability is superb. Despite this, it is inexpensive. It is really small at only 22 inches tall and weighs 43 lbs. Being small and light coupled with an extremely powerful engine it can rocket up to 40 mph.

The special features of the Boreem 47cc include:

1. 40mph speed

2. 30 mile range

3. Sturdy aluminum frame

4. Chain drive with rear wheel tension

5. Two cycle oil

6. 1.2 liters fuel tank capacity.

7. 10inch x 4.5 inch solid tires

8. 60 day warranty period.

The quality and attention devoted to all types of pocket bikes of the 47cc category is remarkable. After ordering and seeing this superior bike on arrival at your doorstep, you are sure to be impressed. The bikes are ready to use once out of the box but you are advised to follow all the safety instructions and use proper safety equipment.

You can order a 47cc bike according to your choice of style and color. After ordering, you have to wait for only about 2 working days to get this dream bike. If you spend a little extra, you can avail of the performance package that upgrades your bike to the next level. You will also be provided with free technical service for life and advice on upgrade as a part of after sales service.

So with all this information in your hand, order yourself a thrilling 47cc bike.

Robert Sheehan
http://www.articlesbase.com/fitness-articles/47cc-pocket-bikes-make-your-ride-as-thrilling-as-can-be-103461.html

The Continental Grand Prix 4000 is a vast improvement over it’s predecessor in many regards. The Grand Prix 3000 was a wonderful tire to use. It was comfortable, light and grippy enough to inspire the most cautious riders to go hard into the turns.

The Continental Grand Prix 4000 has taken that successful design and redefined how a racing tire should ride. The most notable change is the addition of Vectran which is an industry first. This allows for a lower weight, reduced rolling resistance, and increased tread strength– reducing cuts and punctures. We must ask: What took so long? Apparently it took a landing on mars in 1997 & 2004. The airbags used for this were constructed out of Vectran which is naturally lightweight and strong. You can also find Vectran fibers used in sails for yachts and paragliders.

Combine the Vectran with Continentals Activated Silica Compound (ASC) and the Grand Prix 4000 receives increased traction with the road. Allowing riders to corner faster and further reduce rolling resistance.

Continental heard our collective cries for a tire that would resist cracking – an age old problem for riders. It turns out that most of that cracking is the result of the sun and the moister lost. A new anti-cracking formula aids in the production against UV rays, and prolongs the tires life by reducing tire cracking from UV exposure. Think of it as built in sunscreen.

The result of these improvements is a tire more aggressive then the GP3000, the GP 4000 lasts longer, corners better and tells you when it needs replacing. Leave it up to the Germans to build in a wear indicator. The GP 4000 is our most purchased tire, out selling the competition.

Key Features
* The successor to the highly popular Grand Prix 3000
* 20 percent less rolling resistance
* Lightweight
* Stronger puncture protection
* Higher mileage
* Anti ageing compound and tread wear indicators

After Your Ride
An ounce of prevention goes a long way – inspect your tires every time you put your bike away after a ride. Look for pieces of debris that might be stuck to your tire but have yet to make it into your tube. Ensuring there is enough rubber on your tire and no debris stuck in it will decrease the chances of a flat on your next adventure.

Arthor Pens
http://www.articlesbase.com/sports-and-fitness-articles/continental-grand-prix-4000-bike-tire-732404.html