03.16.10
Posted in Uncategorized at 6:43 pm by Administrator
Scala Rider G4 Intercom – webBikeWorld.
Introduction
Continuing our foray into “3rd Generation” motorcycle intercom systems, we finally acquired a pair of the new Scala Rider G4 intercom, in the “Powerset” guise. The Powerset version is simply a paired pair; i.e., two G4 intercoms already paired at the factory.
But pairing is a cinch, so even if you buy one now and another later, it will be no problem to turn them into a high-performance motorcycle intercom set.
Pairing and controlling Bluetooth intercoms used to be a hit-or-miss proposition, with much frustration in the “Gen 1″ intercoms we reviewed only a couple of years ago. And just because the early Bluetooth intercoms were paired didn’t mean they were going to stay that way — dropped calls, signals and pairing was commonplace.
Well, that was then and this is now. As we mentioned in the Sena SMH10 review, this is a new dawn for motorcycle intercom systems and we couldn’t be more pleased. With systems like the Interphone F4 (review), the Sena SMH10 (review) and now the Scala Rider G4 “Gen 3″ systems having all been announced in rapid succession, it’s comm heaven for motorcyclists…and their pillions…and their riding buddies!
We’re going to follow the same format here as we did with the Sena intercoms — the Scala Rider G4 intercom will be described first and our initial impressions and evaluation, then off they go to HBC, who is currently on an extended motorcycle tour with his wife and two motorcycles and friends, for an extended follow-up evaluation which will be reported back in a Part II.
Cardo Systems Scala Rider Intercoms
The G4 is aptly named, as it is the fourth Scala Rider intercom we reviewed on webBikeWorld. I’d like to think that the G4 means “Generation 4″ for Cardo Systems, but perhaps not.
Nevertheless, the new G4 is so far evolved from the original Cardo offerings that the only thing they have in common is that they are called intercoms. It’s like comparing a 1909 Royal Pioneer to a 2010 BMW S1000RR — they both have two wheels, but are otherwise live in a different universe.
Well, maybe that’s overstating it a bit, but the G4 is packed with features and does represent the latest in intercom technology and thinking.
The G4 uses Bluetooth 2.1 Class 1 and the lithium polymer battery has a recharge time of about 3 hours. The claimed talk time is up to 10 hours and standby time is 7 days. Also, the system uses Digital Signal Processing (DSP) for advanced audio capabilities.
Using the Scala Rider G4
The G4 is surely the most advanced motorcycle intercom system ever developed, no doubt. However, with all these features, it’s going to take some roll-up-the-sleeves time with the owner’s manual.
Pardon me while I go into rant mode here for a minute, with a suggestion for all motorcycle intercom manufacturers regarding the operating manual for these devices.
The owner’s manual or operating manual should, of course, start with a description of the basic parts of the intercom and an explanation on how to give the units their initial charge. But then the very first thing that should be described is the most commonly used feature: the intercom.
For some reason, every intercom owner’s manual we’ve read starts by describing cell phone connectivity, GPS connectivity and every other type of connectivity before getting to the most important topic — how to use the intercom.
The G4 manual is an example; it seems to have been printed almost completely in reverse from the order in which the features will be used by the new owner. It starts by describing the spoken status announcements (that are not turned on by default); then how to mount the device to the helmet; then how to connect to a cell phone; then how to connect to a GPS device; then an MP3 player; then how to use the FM radio; then how to connect the cable for non-Bluetooth devices.
Finally, in Section 9, it describes how to use the intercom. Surely the first thing any new owner does when the intercom box arrives is to turn on the units and start talking to see if/how it works?
Nobody is going to mount an intercom before first turning it on and trying it out. So the helmet mounting section can come last, along with optional or advanced features like how to turn on the spoken announcements.
Start with how to use the intercom, then run exactly backwards from the G4 manual and you’ll have a much better manual, in our opinion.
All of the relevant information is in the G4 owner’s manual, but it will definitely take some back-and-forth between pages and probably several read-throughs to rearrange the correct order of operations before it all starts to sink in.
The Scala Rider G4 Intercom Module
The G4 intercom module slides and snaps into the headset mount — almost a bit too easily. So far, it has remained in place, but we do have some concern that the module could come loose from the headset if the helmet is banged or even during an unconscious move by the rider’s gloves.
The module weighs 49 grams and the headset with the module installed weighs 126 grams. Although the G4 is narrower and sleeker than the Sena SMH10 recently reviewed, both of these are big intercom units compared to intercoms of the past.
The size of these newer systems is probably a correlation to the capabilities of the new systems though, and since the mounting brackets on these newer systems are much sturdier than anything used in the past, the size doesn’t seem to make much of a difference and in fact makes them easier to use when wearing gloves.
Pushing the Buttons
The good news is that once the manual is deciphered, everything works as described. The unit has 5 buttons, but they’re laid out in a logical manner and fairly easy to access while wearing gloves.
The center button on top turns the unit on or off. It’s called the “Mobile Phone Button” because it is pressed once to answer an incoming call. This button is flanked by the volume up and down buttons; volume up in front and volume down in the rear. These buttons also control forward and rewind for connected AVRCP devices.
The two buttons on the side of the intercom module bracket the LED status light, which is bright and can’t be missed. The button marked “A” in front connects to another Scala Rider intercom and controls a connected MP3 player. The “B” button in the rear connects to a second Scala Rider intercom and controls the built-in FM radio.
The trick is learning the correct series and combination of buttons and pushing to access all the features, but it’s actually pretty easy after a few trial runs. The buttons have decent tactile feedback, so the correct button is usually easy to locate and operate when wearing gloves.
Connecting the Intercom
Although the G4 system shown here is the “Powerset” package, consisting of a pair of G4 intercoms that were paired at the factory, we had to pair ours again to get the intercom system to work as expected.
Not a problem though; simply turn on each unit by pressing and holding the center button on top. Once the units are on, press and hold the A button until the LED flashes rapidly, then do the same for the other unit, and they’ll pair.
Multiple Intercom Connections
Although we haven’t tried connecting multiple G4 intercoms because we only have one pair, the system is said to have the ability to allow four riders (two drivers and two passengers), three riders (three separate bikers) or two riders (rider-to-rider or rider-to-passenger), to conduct intercom conversations at distances of up to one mile, depending on conditions. Cardo says this can be done in full duplex (simultaneous talking/listening), which is also a first.
Looking through the owner’s manual, setting up more than two systems to communicate this way may take some head-scratching and a little practice, so follow the instructions carefully.
VOX
The G4 intercom units apparently default to VOX mode; I say “apparently” because the VOX mode seems to work so well that we couldn’t always tell whether we were in full intercom connect mode (available by pressing the A or B channel button once on each of the two paired intercoms to open an always-on channel) or not.
One thing’s for sure: the manual suggests that the VOX mode “is designed for use in loud environments”, and this is correct. If you try using VOX mode in the living room, chances are it won’t work because it’s too quiet and you’ll think something’s wrong with the system. Burn and I were fooled by this for a couple of hours before we found that paragraph, and once we stood outside next to a running bike, it worked fine.
VOX mode also works to make voice-controlled hands-free intercom calls and phone calls with answer, voice dial and call reject functions.
Bluetooth Connectivity
Besides the standard types of Bluetooth connections, like an MP3 player, cell phone and GPS, the G4 has a can connect with non-Bluetooth MP3 players or GPS units via its embedded jack.
Each headset can be paired to one active Bluetooth connection (e.g., GPS, MP3 player, cell phone) and up to two other G4 units simultaneously. Since we don’t have four G4 units to experiment with, how this capability works with the claimed four unit full duplex communication capability is unknown.
The jack port is located in back of the headset, rather than in the front or rear, so the right-angle 3.5 mm jack cable sticks out 14.5 mm from the back of the unit, placing it just about even with the back of the helmet mount. This may cause some interference with some helmets.
The G4 connects with GPS units that feature a headset profile and Cardo Systems claims that the G4 is compatible with most major Bluetooth GPS devices. When connected to a GPS, the instructions from the unit will take priority over the FM radio and intercom conversations. Also, the system can be set up to have a conference call between a cell phone call and another G4 unit (pillion). Please — don’t try this while riding! Let the passenger take the calls.
Stereo Sound
The G4 has excellent quality sound and the speaker volume can be made much louder than previous Scala Rider intercoms.
Thinking back, we should have used our decibel meter to compare the sound levels of the Sena and Interphone F4 with the Scala Rider G4 but the other units are presently out on the road. The G4 speakers are smaller and lighter than the speakers on the Sena SMH10 (7 g vs. 10 g), but they provide about the same excellent sound quality and volume.
Built-In FM Radio
Owners of previous Scala Rider intercom versions had mixed opinions on the quality of the built-in FM radio, but we had no problem pulling in the major radio stations here; they come in loud and clear with surprisingly good quality sound
The G4 has a scan and seek feature, and it did take some experimentation to fully understand how it works. The system has a six station channel memory. Note that FM radio reception will vary, depending on the riding environment.
The FM receiver has a frequency range of 87.5 MHz to 108 MHz; RDS functionality (adjusts to best frequencies according to zones); a six station memory; search for next station function and the radio will automatically mute when a call comes in on a connected cell phone. But you never ride with a cell phone connected, right?
Mounting the Scala Rider G4
The G4 helmet mount is strong and durable, which also means thick. It’s 7 mm thick including the rubber pad. This is similar to the robust mounts used on the Interphone F4 and Sena SMH10, and we have received several emails from readers indicating that these mounts are a bit too thick to fit between the liner and shell of some helmets.
The new Shoei RF-1100 (review) was singled out as a particularly difficult helmet to fit an intercom, so owners had to rely on the stick-on helmet mount instead. We usually use gaffer’s tape to mount the intercoms during evaluations, because the systems are on and off multiple helmets and, in this case, will be sent to other evaluators for more detailed follow-up.
Note that the stick-on helmet mounts used by most intercom manufacturers are one-time use only, so make sure you get everything lined up perfectly before tearing off the backing on the tape. It’s a good idea to temporarily mount the intercom with duct tape or similar, then install the wires for the speakers and make sure the microphone boom is correct. then permanently mount the intercom bracket.
Other Features
Automatic Gain Control Technology: The G4 automatically adjusts the headset volume based on ambient noise and driving speed. The G4 is also claimed to provide improved audio quality in dense urban surroundings, but since all of our riding is done in a very rural area, we can’t confirm this capability.
Firmware Updates: Cardo Systems is setting up a web capability to download updates if necessary, although at this point they said that it will work with Windows XP or Vista (and, we assume, Windows 7) systems.
Spoken Status Announcements: This mode can be enabled by pressing and holding the A and B buttons simultaneously. Different languages can be chosen, and a clear voice will come on that provides some spoken feedback regarding the different modes. It is somewhat helpful and perhaps this feature will be enhanced with future updates. The spoken status announcements are in addition to and do not replace the typical beeps that signal the enabling of the various intercom connectivity features.
Charger: The modules are recharged by a USB cable that connects to a wall outlet. Two cables and two outlets are provided with the Powerset kit, rather than a single outlet with a dual USB cable.
Conclusion
The Scala Rider G4 is yet another example that motorcycle intercom systems keep getting better and better, and the rapid improvements in technology and availability now offers many different choices to the motorcyclist.
The G4 is a feature-rich motorcycle communications system, and although it may take more than a casual glance at the owner’s manual to understand how everything works, you’ll end up with a highly advanced intercom and lots more.
The G4 has excellent sound quality and volume, good connectivity with Bluetooth devices, other G4 intercoms and even previous versions of Scala Rider products,
Our units are now going off on tour with HBC, who will report back in a Part II with his impressions. We’ll do the same for the Sena SMH10 and the Interphone F4 intercoms, then wrap it up with a comparison of these three systems.
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02.27.10
Posted in WebBikeWorld.com at 12:59 am by Administrator
No matter how many intercom reviews we publish — and we have many, as you can see in the right-hand column — webBikeWorlders always want one more.
And its no wonder, with new intercom announcements coming about once a month! By the way, it appears that Bluetooth has pretty much taken over the motorcycle intercom market. There hasn’t been a wired intercom system announced since Valentino Rossi was riding a two-stroke.
We have an upcoming review of the new Sena intercom system coming next, and we’re hoping to get a G4 system in the pipeline soon after, so stay tuned.
In the meantime, here’s a “First Look” with some information gleaned from a Scala press release dated February 2, 2010:
Cardo Systems, Inc., the world’s market leader in wireless Bluetooth communications for motorcycle helmet headsets, today announced the availability of its new scala rider [sic] G4, the most feature-rich bike-to-bike Bluetooth headset available on the market today.
From compatibility with any number of Bluetooth-enabled devices to its embedded FM radio, mobile phone support and voice activation, the scala rider G4 is also the first Bluetooth headset to offer group intercom between up to three riders as well as communication among two riders and their two passengers on two bikes at distances up to one mile — a new industry benchmark for motorcycle headsets.
Encased in a rugged and fully redesigned form factor, the scala rider G4 leads the pack in Bluetooth enjoyment and safety by allowing the user access to all of their compatible communications and entertainment through one lightweight unit.
Specific features include:
- Two/Three/Four-Way Intercom: The G4 allows four riders (two drivers and two passengers), three riders (three separate bikers) or two riders (rider-to-rider or rider-to-passenger), to conduct intercom conversations at distances of up to one mile, depending on conditions. The headset offers full duplex (simultaneous talking/listening) capability as well as mobile phone call conferencing between riders, between rider and passenger, or with outside callers.
- Multi-Device Compatibility: The G4 can connect with virtually any portable Bluetooth device including mobile phones, MP3 players and compatible GPS units (for in-helmet voice instructions). It can also connect with non-Bluetooth MP3 players, GPS units via its embedded jack, and the entire line of scala rider headsets. Each G4 headset can be actively connected to one Bluetooth device and two other scala rider headsets at one time.
- A2DP Stereo Music: Taking advantage of A2DP, the latest Bluetooth stereo music transfer technology, the G4 can receive CD-quality music from any MP3 player with A2DP capability.
- Built-In FM Radio: The G4 has a built-in FM Radio with RDS and scan and seek features with six station channel memory.
- VOX Activation: The G4 allows users to make voice-controlled hands-free intercom calls and phone calls with answer, voice dial and call reject functions.
- AGC Technology: The G4 automatically adjusts the headset volume based on ambient noise and driving speed.
- PLC Technology: The G4 provides improved audio quality in dense urban surroundings.
- Downloadable Cardo Software For Future Upgrades: (Requires Windows XP or Vista based PCs). This software keeps the G4 always up-to-date with the latest applications.
- Spoken Status Announcements: The G4 provides multi-lingual in-the-ear announcements tell users to whom or to which device they are connected to.
“Cardo’s new scala rider G4 takes all the power of wireless communications and entertainment today and puts it in one amazing package. There’s no Bluetooth headset on the market that revolutionizes a biker’s riding experience like the G4,” says Abraham Glezerman, CEO of Cardo Systems, Inc.
“This is our most exciting motorcycle headset yet — a breakthrough that can greatly improve enjoyment and safety for single riders or groups, passengers and drivers alike.”
As with all scala rider headsets, the G4 features a noise canceling microphone and weather-resistant design. Talk time with the unit’s rechargeable Li-Po battery is up to 10 hours and standby time is up to 10 days.
The scala rider G4 fits virtually all ¾ and full-face helmets and can be self-installed in five minutes. The system has a suggested retail price of $279.95.
You can purchase a new Scala Rider G4 intercom Powerset system kit that includes two intercoms for rider and passenger or bike to bike.
(Publication Date: February 24, 2010).
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11.06.09
Posted in Eagle Leather News at 9:05 pm by Administrator
Many of you who follow the industry are aware of the new Microwire Gerbing’s Heated Clothing is putting in their products now, but what is the real benefit? Having recently received their new Microwired products, I noticed the biggest difference is… you don’t feel the wiring when you have them on. They use to use a round wire that you could really feel across the shoulder blades if you stretched forward and if you just picked up the Jacket Liner, but now you really have to feel for it to notice where the Microwiring is located. Do they heat better than the older versions… that I haven’t heard enough feedback, to make a judgement yet, but they did keep the same connections as the last version so they are fully compatible with any products you may already own. So remember, if you ride all year long or are planning on commuting throught the winter months, then look into the Gerbing’s Heated Clothing Line.
Xerxes,
www.eagleleather.com
P.S. Coming soon a brand new build of our website with some improvements we hope you’ll really like.
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09.05.09
Posted in Eagle Leather News at 12:14 am by Administrator
We had so much fun at our barbecues earlier this summer, we decided to have one on Labor Day, too. The holiday falls on September 7 this year, but we’ll celebrating Sunday, September 6th from noon to four.
Labor Day-a day to celebrate the working men and women who built our country-was first celebrated in New York in 1882. Congress recognized the first Monday of September as Labor Day in 1894.
As the recession begins to turn around, let’s all get together at Eagle Leather for hot dogs with all the fixings and a variety of soft drinks. We can trade stories about our summer motorcycling adventures!
You’ll want to see the new Discount Section at Eagle Leather. We’ve put nearly half a million dollars worth of top-quality merchandise into its own special section of the store. A great opportunity for savings!
We have a new selection of Big and Tall gear, too. We know how hard it can be to find protective Riding Gear. At Eagle Leather, you’ll have plenty of styles to choose from.
And, when you purchase $50.00 or more in gear at the barbecue, we’ll give you a 10% discount! If you’re buying online anytime during the first week of September, enter coupon code 909021 and we’ll give you the same deal.
Remember to vote on whether Dave Lien’s Million Mile Harley should be kept in Wisconsin or in South Dakota. Just put a penny (or more) into the marked jar at Eagle Leather. Remember, all the cash goes to help our military families.
Gear for the Ride!
Mike Toursal
P.S. If you have stories or pictures of your summer rides that you would like to share with other customers of Eagle Leather, send them in. We’ll feature of selection of them on our website soon. Email to sales@eagleleather.com.
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07.08.09
Posted in Eagle Leather News at 7:49 pm by Administrator
By now most of you know that our part time, part brained state legislature has seen fit to rewrite and expand the state’s confusing and ambiguous helmet law. What many of you do not know is that under the existing law novelty helmets and beanies were already illegal. Problem was that the law was poorly written and difficult to enforce. Getting a conviction if a rider pleaded not guilty was all but impossible. That will all change on July 26th, 2009. The new law is extremely well written and includes 10 pages of engineering and legalese that clearly define what a D.O.T. helmet is and what you as a rider must do to establish with law enforcement that what you are wearing is indeed an approved lid.
Please read Phil Wakefield’s article on the legalese but know this: Law enforcement has already begun a heightened degree of enforcement where all motorcycle laws are concerned. With fatalities on the rise you can expect some pretty close scrutiny when you are out riding. An illegal helmet will also invite closer inspection of your scoot by the officer who stops you for it. We have gotten over a dozen calls and emails to this effect and its 6 weeks before the new law even kicks in! Riders are being hit for vertical license plates, loud exhausts, handlebar infractions, lighting violations and more. In short your illegal lid is giving them a legal opportunity to write you a batch of very pricey tickets. Just “ask Arlin” who while riding to work on one of his customs garnered $750.00 worth of paper surprises.
It is no longer a question of if your beanie will get you stopped, but WHEN! On June 18th the WAP sent out a media release that clearly states that they are “stepping up enforcement efforts towards motorcycle riders with helmets that are not D.O.T. approved and who are not properly endorsed.” Like it or not, you must wear a legitimate D.O.T. helmet and unlike the old law using a little D.O.T. sticker won’t save you. The officer can and will ask you to prove the helmet is a legit lid and has the right to ask you to remove it and show them the inside label that is sewn into the lining among other ways of proving it’s the real deal. You can and should expect maximum enforcement of this new law taking effect July 26th. If you have received a ticket recently you may be able to beat it under the current law, so plead not guilty and call an attorney like Phil Wakefield or Frank Morris of BikersLawyers.com for some help!
If you are like me, you hate those big, mushroom head, heavily padded conventional D.O.T. hats. For us there is hope. Look into some of the New Kevlar-Carbon Fiber Jobs that are fully D.O.T. approved but are extremely light, and very, very, strong. So strong in fact that they achieve their approval while still using only about 5/8ths of an inch of padding. A bit pricey at $175.00, but they may be the answer you are looking for. Many stores in our area carry them. Eagle Leather’s Helmets To help you we have posted a list on page 13 (Quick Throttle Magazine).
Virtually every motorcycle shop in our state carries a full line of the standard type D.O.T. helmets so you will not have any problems converting over. To quote an old Bob Dylan tune “The times they are a’ changing”
Mike Dalgaard
Publisher, Quick Throttle Northwest
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06.05.09
Posted in Eagle Leather News at 10:45 pm by Administrator
A million miles! Dave Zien racked up a cool million miles on his Harley 1991 FXRT. He hit the million-mile mark April 4, 2009 right in front of Hal’s Harley-Davidson in New Berlin, Wisconsin. The miles are documented with gas and repair receipts.
Zien is a former Wisconsin State Senator and a veteran long-distance rider. When Harley Davidson was celebrating its one-hundredth anniversary with a big party, Zien rode a thousand miles a day (on the average) for the preceding thirty-one days. The Iron Butt Association gave him an award for, among other feats, riding fifteen-hundred miles in a single twenty-four hour period.
That miraculous FXRT has had two new engines and nine engine overhauls. Iron Butt Zien wore out nine seats.
Zien gave the million-mile bike to Harley-Davidson. In appreciation, the company gave Zien a brand new motorcycle. The million-mile bike will be displayed at Sturgis, South Dakota, where the Sturgis Motorcycle Museum and Hall of Fame has prepared a special display that will let visitors see the cycle from all sides. (And you don’t want to miss the graffiti on this bike!)
Sturgis seems like a great home for this special bike, especially since Zien already has a display in the Hall of Fame.
But Wisconsin, Harley-Davidson’s home as well as Zien’s, has a valid claim, too. After all, most of those million miles were logged in the state. After this year’s rally at Sturgis, Harley-Davidson will display the motorcycle in its new Harley-Davidson Museum near Milwaukee.
And then the million-mile bike will return to Sturgis, permanently.
What do you think? Wisconsin or South Dakota? Which is the most appropriate home for Dave Zien’s million-mile motorcycle?
Come in to Eagle Leather, where we’ve set up two jars, one for Wisconsin, one for South Dakota. Vote with a penny (or more if you like). At the end of the summer, we’ll count the donations and let you know who wins. Then we’ll give all the voting proceeds to the National Military Family Association.
Sure, it’s just for fun—we don’t expect to sway the folks at Harley-Davidson either way. But it’s a good excuse to see what’s new at Eagle Leather, and we’d like to see you. And, it’s a way to raise a little money to support our military families who sacrifice so much on our behalf.
I used facts from Patrick Marley’s article in the St. Paul Pioneer Press (reprinted from the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel). Read more at www.TwinCities.com.
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Posted in Eagle Leather News at 9:57 pm by Administrator
Written by Black Jack
Being a long time rider of the motorcycling community, I tend to hear numerous facts as well as rumors and misconceptions regarding Legislative activity taking place in Washington State. This year is no different, and the topic of conversation is Senate Bill 5482 – Modifying provisions governing two-wheeled and three-wheeled vehicles, passing the Legislature on April 29th, taking effect as law on July 26th, 2009. So without further ado, let’s get down and dirty…
SB5482 ended up being sort of a ‘catch-all’ for many of the issues at hand this year and for many of the issue specific bills that stalled out in committees.
-Definitions for motorcycles, mopeds, motorized scooters and enclosed three-wheeled vehicles were clarified and amended to conform to federal regulations. Wheel sizes and pedal specifications were removed from the definition of mopeds and now they require mirrors. Motorcycles definitions were modified to state drivers sit on a seat or saddle (instead of astride the motor unit), or on a seat in a partially or completely enclosed area equipped with seat belts and designed to be steered with a steering wheel, and also now exclude motorized foot scooters. Definitions for motorized foot scooters were revised stating a maximum speed of 20mph and require the rider to wear a helmet. And finally, statutes were modified to allow a person with a valid operator’s license to operate an encloses three-wheeled vehicle without requiring a motorcycle endorsement.
-Current statutes regarding motorcycles helmets were not fully in compliance with federal regulations and were amended accordingly. Currently, the existing helmet law in Washington specified that a legal USDOT helmet must have a DOT sticker on the helmet. As we all know, these stickers are readily available and can be placed on any ‘novelty’ helmet so to appear in accordance. The wording was changed, removing the word ’sticker’ and replaced with ‘a manufacture’s certification applied in accordance with 49CFR Sec. 571.218. So what does that mean exactly? 49 CFR Sec. 571.218 is the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard governing motorcycle helmets. That standard simply states:
“Each helmet shall be labeled permanently and legibly, in a manner such that the label(s) can be read easily without removing padding or any other permanent part, with the following: (a) Manufacturer’s name or identification. (b) Precise model designation. (c) Size. (d) Month and year of manufacture. (e) The symbol DOT, constituting the manufacturer’s certification that the helmet conforms to the applicable Federal motor vehicle safety standards. This symbol shall appear on the outer surface. in a color that contrasts with the background, in letters at least 3/8 inch (1 cm) high, centered laterally with the horizontal centerline of the symbol located a minimum of 1 1/8th inches (2.9 cm) and a maximum of 1 3/8th inches (3.5 cm) from the bottom edge of the posterior portion of the helmet.”
Let me reiterate, the new wording of the law states “a motorcycle helmet means a protective covering for the head… with a manufacturer’s certification applied in accordance with 49 C.F.R. Sec. 571.218 indicating that the motorcycle helmet meets standards established by the United States Department of Transportation.”
The DOT symbol on the back of the helmet constitutes the manufacturer’s certification meeting the requirements of Washington law. By state law your helmet is required to be DOT certified. If you are wearing a novelty beanie, then expectations should be in place that a trooper or officer may want to examine your helmet further during a traffic stop, in essence looking for the additional manufacturer’s information the label inside. If you are wearing an approved DOT helmet, you’ll have no worries whatsoever as you are legal. You’ll actually get the last laugh as he (or she) hands you back your helmet. However, if you choose to run illegal, the expect a hassle.
The bill goes into effect July 26th. So, if you wear a legal DOT helmet now, then it will remain legal. If you’re wearing an illegal helmet now, then it will be just as illegal come July 26th. Prior to this bill being passed into law, Washington State had mandated that you wore a USDOT certified helmet. So in the end this new legislation really isn’t a significant change.
-Traffic signal vehicle detection system regulations were amended to establish procedures to identify and repair (with existing funds) traffic controls to detect two-wheeled vehicles.
That’s it in a nutshell. I hope this helps clear up a bit of the confusion that is common whit the legislative process. Ride safe!
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06.27.08
Posted in Eagle Leather News at 1:53 am by Administrator
For 4 straight years Eagle Leather has been the #1 Gerbing’s Heated Clothing Dealer in the Western Region and in the top 10 Nation wide. With special thanks to all you that have supported Eagle Leather over the years. Congratulations to all our customers who have supported us in our growth into the largest motorcycle apparel dealer on the west coast and the #1 Gerbing’s heated clothing dealer in the western region.
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06.23.08
Posted in Eagle Leather News at 9:17 pm by Administrator
Eagle Leather’s month long Grand Opening celebration culminated in climatic fashion with the drawing of one lucky ticket holder. All during the month of October, Eagle Leather gave anyone who walked through the doors a ticket and a chance to win a new 2008 Harley-Davidson Dyna Superglide Custom.
“this was a genius promotional marketing idea” said a group of friends who had entered the drawing and ridden together to Eagle’s new 22,000 sq. ft. motorcycle accessories super store. “the tickets did not cost a dime an it gave a chance to check out the new store”, they continued. I must say I heard those same sentiments repeated over and over throughout the day.
For those that missed out, it was pure pandemonium inside and outside the store. Over 3,000 people showed up to see if they would become the lucky winners of new Harley-Davidson. The bike tickets were free, but you had to be present to win. Again, great marketing by Eagle Leather. In addition to the motorcycle give-a-way, Eagle Leather gave each person on Saturday a ticket entering them into a separate drawing for a chance to wind one of several names drawn that would win hundreds of dollars worth of Eagle merchandise.
A couple of hours before the designated 5 pm drawing, anxious customers squeezed through the doors to shop, wait and turn in last minute entries. The cash registers and employees were working at a frenzied pace to keep up with the customers. This was no easy task in light of the huge turnout, yet the staff remained professional, courteous and helpful.
The spinning ticket drum was crammed full of hopeful winner names. I couldn’t help but look around at the vast crowd and wonder which man or woman would indeed win.
Prior to the drawing, Eagle Leather randomly selected an adorable little girl, Jennifer, with the honor of hand picking the winning ticket.
At 5pm the big moment had arrived. The drum was spun several times to insure a good mix of the tickets. The crowd was nearly silent, waiting with anticipation of the name that would be announced…
“Brian Lester you are the winner of a new 2008 Harley-Davidson Dyna Superglide” Instantly I heard a lady squeal, the a big hearty “WoooWhooo” which was followed by the crowd roaring and clapping. As the masses parted, a big ‘ol guy with a grin a mile wide stood before me. Along side him was his wife, Keri, who I’m sure was responsible for the squeal I heard!
Brian stepped up tot the mic, completely blown away that he was the winner. He thanked Mike Toursal, owner of Eagle Leather and his fantastic staff for making it possible.
Brian and his wife stopped by Eagle Leather every day for a month to shop, pick up a ticket and enter, hoping to improve his chances of winning. It definitely paid off for him.
There was something about 36 year old Brian that oozed ‘nice guy’. I had a chance to sit and talk with him for a while after the shock of winning had begun to wear off and really had set in. I found that my instincts were right on, he is a genuinely down to earth, nice guy.
I asked Brian how it felt to win. He replied “Surreal. I can’t believe it’s mine. Man, how do you properly thank a guy who basically hands you a new 2008 Harley? How do you show that kind of appreciation?” Brian is by his humble words “just an average, married, hardworking guy”. He and his wife, Keri have been together for 9 years and married in April, 2006. They have 3 sons ages 9, 14, and 16, who all share a passion for motorcycles. The first thing Keri did was call their sons at home and say, “Your Dad just won the Harley!” Apparently the kids had bet each other $1 that Dad would not win. Ah, boys don’t you know that Dad’s never wrong!
Brian currently rides a 2007 Road King Custom, but has no intention of selling the Superglide he won. He said, “it’s not only a great bike, it’s a conversation piece.” Hmmm, I couldn’t help but think it seemed to fit his wife, Keri pretty good when she sat on it for pictures… you never know. He did mention changing a few things, some new pipes, forward controls and new bars. You can’t blame a guy for customizing the bike to suit his, or is it her, needs!
It seems that Brain’s life is continually getting better with each passing day. Not long ago Brian found his biological father and their families bonded immediately. Their goal is for his father to buy a Harley-Davidson Road Glide that he has been eyeing so that the two of them can ride side by side to Sturgis next year for some long awaited father and son time.
On behalf of Eagle Leather and the staff at Quick Throttle Magazine we wish Brian Lester and his family the very best. Keep the rubber side down!
Written by Diana Olmstead, Quick Throttle Magazine November 2007
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06.20.08
Posted in Eagle Leather News at 8:44 pm by Administrator
Saturday, September 29th was a great deal of a day for motorcycle enthusiasts who celebrated the Grand Opening of Eagle Leather’s new 22,000 sq. ft. motorcycle accessories super store. By days end over 3000 people walked through the doors to check out the new location and shop! The store was buzzing with non-stop activity. KZOK 102.5 FM was on hand with a live remote broadcast, providing music that riders love most, classic rock! Three of the hottest Hooters girls were on hand, washing bikes, while collecting donations for Children’s Hospital. I have to hand it to these girls, the day was cold and overcast, yet they had a constant stream of bikes and adoring fans waiting their turn throughout the day. Eagle Leather offered some fantastic deals, hidden throughout the store were special discount tags of 70% off, and a few ‘nest egg’ tags meaning the item was FREE! Eagle Leather created a U.S. Register of Official Rider Nicknames and offered free nickname patches. This was a hoot!
To celebrate the Grand Opening of the new store and their 12th year in business, Eagle is giving away a brand new 2008 Harley-Davidson Dyna Super-Glide Custom. Each time you visit Eagle Leather you will be given a free raffle ticket just for stopping by. You can earn an additional raffle ticket with any Eagle Leather purchase. The bike drawing will be held, November 3rd, 2007. If you haven’t stopped by to check out Eagle’s new store you don’t know what you’re missing out on. Not only are they the biggest leather store in Washington state, they have an astonishing assortment of riding gear and accessories ranging from hard to fit adult sizes to childrens sizing. Looking for a helmet? Eagle has it in just about any size and style you could imagine. Looking for new leathers? This is the place to find what you need. They have a great selection of jackets, chaps, and pants for men and women at an excellent price. They carry ICON, Firstgear, Joe Rocket, and Gerbing’s Heated Clothing, just to name a few of the top motorcycle apparel lines available. At Eagle Leather you’ll find an array of T-Shirts, vests-reflective and leather, skull caps, facemasks, eyewear, raingear, gloves, patches, wallets, Harley-Davidson boots, motorcycle luggage, and saddlebags. Eagle Leather has dedicated, knowledgeable, and friendly staff available to assist you with sizing and questions. Yueh, Eagle’s renowned leather seamstress, is available on site for alterations and patch sewing.
Eagle Leather has been in business since 1995. Mike Toursal, owner, has had a passion for bikes since his childhood days in Algiers, located on the Mediterranean Sea, in the north-central part of the country of Algeria, when he rode his first bike, a CMG. That bike kick started his dream of dedicating his future to the motorcycle community. Mike immigrated to the United States, a land of opportunity and American bikes, on April Fools Day, 1991 to pursue his goal of understanding and providing motorcyclists with what they needed most, leather. Mike is a genuine biker at heart. He owns and rides 3 Harley-Davidsons and a Boss Hoss V8. He’s traveled to all of the major motorcycle events around the U.S. including Daytona, Laughlin, Street Vibrations, and Sturgis. It was at these events that Mike set up shop selling leathers while getting to know, respect and party with riders of all walks of life. The more Mike spoke to riders the more he came to realize that these riders were in need of a central location and a larger selection of motorcycle gear. He opened a series of stores dedicated to his passion. He quickly out grew his original 1,500 sq. ft. store, moving up to a 3,000 sq. ft. store, then to 9,000 sq. ft., and now to a whopping 22,000 sq. ft. store centrally located off of I-5 at exit 127!
An interesting fact that few may know, is that Eagle Leather provided leathers that were worn by the Del Fuegos in the hit movie Wild Hogs staring John Travolta, Tim Allen, Martin Lawrence, William H. Macey, and Ray Liotta. Stop by Eagle Leather for great deals all year round at the new location 10222 South Tacoma Way, Lakewood, WA. Or visit their website at www.eagleleather.com
Written by Diana Olmstead, September 2007
Quick Throttle Mag
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