http://www.articletrader.com/ Articles at ArticleTrader en-us http://www.articletrader.com/automotive/a-guide-to-the-isle-of-man-tt-motorbike-races.html http://www.articletrader.com/automotive/a-guide-to-the-isle-of-man-tt-motorbike-races.html Tue, 23 Jun 2009 03:48:35 -0500
Each year, up to 40,000 spectators and 12,000 bikes flock to watch the finest road racers on earth tackle the 37¾ miles of public roads that become the legendary course.

We find out what to see and where to go during TT fortnight.

TT race history

The first TT (Tourist Trophy) began as an event for cars in 1904, after the Isle of Man government changed the law to allow roads to be closed for racing (which was illegal in the UK).

Three years later, in 1907, motorbikes got a race of their own.

Today, the venue is world famous. The bikes may be faster and the lap times shorter - but the battle to be the best remains. Both bike and rider race against the clock, and the fastest in each class wins.

The circuit

The Grandstand in Douglas, the Isle of Man capital, is where the TT starts and ends. In between lie suburban main roads, countryside lanes, villages, bends, a humpback bridge and the world famous Mountain Course.

The tourist board lists 39 official places to watch, from grandstands to farmers' fields - each with different levels of facilities!

Isle of Man TT 2009

Practice week starts on May 30. This is followed by racing in five different classes: Superstock, Superbike, Sidecar, Supersport Junior and the Senior TT on Friday June 12.

There will also be 125cc Ultra-Lightweight and 250cc Lightweight TT races, running on the Billown Circuit in the south of the Isle of Man.

The riders

This year includes:

* 2 World Champions
* 2 European Champions
* 13 former TT winners
* 22 National champions from nine countries

Two legendary Italian riders return to the track this year. Valentino Rossi, eight-time World Motorcycle Grand Prix champion, and Giacomo Agostini, 10 times TT winner between 1966 and 1972, will ride a demonstration lap of the course.

The man to beat is Lancashire lad John McGuinness. He's won the TT 14 times so far and holds the outright lap record of 17 mins 21.99 seconds - an average speed of 130.354mph!

TT dates

Saturday June 6: Superbike TT Race

Sidecar TT Race 1

Monday June 8: Superstock TT Race

Supersport Junior TT Race 1

Wednesday June 10: Supersport Junior TT Race 2

Sidecar TT Race 2

Friday June 12: Senior TT Race

Saturday June 13: Lightweight TT Race

Ultra Lightweight TT Race

Other TT racing attractions

The green race: The 2009 TT also sees a world first with the ground-breaking clean emissions Grand Prix race run by TTXGP.

The return of the great: After a 16-year absence, the famous name of Norton Motorcycles makes its long-awaited return. Michael Dunlop, the 21-year-old son of the late motorcycle great Robert Dunlop, and nephew of the legendary Joey Dunlop, will ride the Norton NRV 588 on its TT Senior Race debut.

Off the course

The Isle of Man TT is a two-week party - Red Arrow displays, free motorbike shows and a rock concert headed by Whitesnake add to the festivities.

Mad Sunday

It's the official name for Sunday June 7. One section of the TT course over the Mountain from Ramsey Hairpin to Creg-ny-Baa becomes one-way and open to the public. A fantastic, exhilarating ride, but you'll need to keep your wits about you and make sure you are covered by the necessary motorbike insurance.


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For more information on the Isle of Man TT please visit http://www.confused.com/motorbike-insurance

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/automotive/the-worry-about-car-parts.html http://www.articletrader.com/automotive/the-worry-about-car-parts.html Mon, 22 Jun 2009 10:43:10 -0500


Consumers have a lot to worry about because of the struggles of the automotive industry. They themselves could be affected if they are involved in the industry. Many other companies besides the car manufacturer themselves could be affected if manufacturers go out of business. There is also a major question among many consumers that have cars from car manufacturers that are hurting right now. That is, if the company goes out of business, will I be able to get car parts to repair my car? Who will honour my warranty? Will it be honoured at all? These are major questions that hopefully will never have to be answered. But it is certainly a legitimate question that must be asked, will a consumer be able to get car parts to repair their can if their manufacturer goes out of business. The answer should hopefully be a yes. This is because there are third parties that often are able to get car parts for people that need them, such as online companies like Breakeryard who source the parts on your behalf. In addition, the automaker are likely to have a stockpile of parts that could be used for consumers to fix their cars. Whatever the economy and the car industry brings though, it is very important that consumers be able to get their car parts do that cars on the road are safe, and consumer feel secure.

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Want your car parts to be sourced on your behalf? Check out www.breakeryard.com for a range of cheap used car parts .

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/automotive/get-paid-to-scrap-your-old-van-for-a-new-one.html http://www.articletrader.com/automotive/get-paid-to-scrap-your-old-van-for-a-new-one.html Mon, 22 Jun 2009 05:16:23 -0500
Help is now at hand - thanks to the government's scrappage scheme. So what is it and what does it mean for your old van? Confused.com finds out.

What is the scrappage scheme?

Anyone who wants to trade in a vehicle that's 10 or more years old gets £2,000 off the price of a new one. The £300 million scheme applies to cars and vans and began on May 18, 2009. It will continue until early 2010.

Is your old van eligible?

If your van meets the following criteria, it's eligible for the scrappage scheme:

* Weighs no more than 3,500kg
* Is first registered on, or before, August 31, 1999
* Is currently registered with the DVLA in your name and has been registered to you for at least the previous 12 months
* Has a British address on the registration certificate
* Has a valid MOT certificate when you order the new van

What type of new van can you get?

If your old van fits the bill, now's the time to start shopping. But before you find the right one for you, check the manufacturer is participating in the scheme. The current list includes: Citroen, Fiat, Ford, Isuzu, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Peugeot, Renault and Renault Trucks, Vauxhall, Volkswagen and Iveco.

To qualify for the scheme, your new van must also:

* Weigh no more than 3,500kg
* Be first registered on, or after, May 18, 2009
* Be new at first registration in the UK with no former owners
* Be built to British specification
* Be registered to the same name as your old van

How do I participate in the scheme?

If your old van ticks all the boxes, and the new van you have your eye on is part of the scheme, simply speak to a participating dealer. They'll verify the vans, take care of paperwork and arrange for your old smokey heap to be sent to the scrap yard. All you need to do is drive your new van home - safely!

Why should I buy a new van?

Go green: Modern vans are more economical and environmentally friendly. This means you'll save money and do your bit for the environment.

Get high-tech: There's the benefit of modern technology. Your new van could come with: sat-navs, air conditioning, fancy stereo, ESP stability programme and better security. This last point could help to drive down the cost of your van insurance. Do your research with our Van Insurance Buyer's Guide.

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For more information on scrapping vans visit http://www.confused.com/van-insurance

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/automotive/for-the-love-of-vintage-cars.html http://www.articletrader.com/automotive/for-the-love-of-vintage-cars.html Wed, 17 Jun 2009 09:30:44 -0500
Being part of this kind of community brings its own share of joy and travail, but when you finally get your beauty restored and are driving it around town, no one will miss the enthusiasm this generates! If you are not so much a do-it-yourself kind of person, there are also clubs and organizations, and businesses that will take on your project for you. Many of these organizations also have websites, with a lot of information. You can learn about your car, and how to properly repair it, also how to shop for cheap or used car parts, and if need be, what substitute parts might work in the event a part is not available. There is a difference between getting some of these old vehicles totally road ready and the perfect 100% restoration; a purist would perhaps not want a part that isn't for their car, but the fact is that since the 1950s auto manufacturers have regularly substituted parts on the assembly line, even if no one was aware of it.

When you are finished with your restoration, many online sites, especially the clubs, offer the ability to sell the cars you restore. There are other auction portals available as well, such as eBay, where you can sell your work. For many, a lot of the fun of restoration is in the act itself, with one car finished, another project can take top priority.
Detailing out your car for the nearest show is also something that brings a lot of satisfaction -- one of these vintage rides sparkling clean inside and out brings a lot of pride to both owner and club.


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For the UKs most comprehensive network of car part suppliers look no further than the no1 -- www.breakeryard.com -- or click here for access!

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/automotive/gps-vehicle-tracking-buyera%2580%2599s-guide.html http://www.articletrader.com/automotive/gps-vehicle-tracking-buyera%2580%2599s-guide.html Wed, 17 Jun 2009 07:46:19 -0500
How to decide between GPS vehicle tracking software providers

You have to know that the provider you choose is going to give you the system and the service that serves your business the best. The growth in popularity of GPS and vehicle tracking systems has led to a number of companies appearing who may be less than thorough in their approach to customer service and the provision of quality products, so it pays to take a little time to choose carefully. You need to ask yourself a few fundamental questions about suppliers. Can they supply you with a list of customers or recommendations from other satisfied users? If they can't then it may be that the systems they offer do not live up to the hype. Talk to other customers (particularly if they are in a similar business to you) and find out what their after-care service has been like, what kind of updates have been provided and, if necessary, ask to see the accounts for the provider. You can also look for suppliers who have volunteered to take part in the Department for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform's TrustMark programme, which is currently being promoted by reputable members of the industry.

Which sales tactics to be careful of

Don't get sucked in by glossy brochures and companies that offer something for nothing. The old adage is applicable here - if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. A vast collection of onboard maps, moving location dots on a screen and a system that seems to have all the bells and whistles at a knockdown price may be masking a system that is unstable, out of date and won't do what you want it to do. A good system should offer the user additional data including unauthorised mileage reports, out-of-hours activity and speeding data. Remember that you are the customer, so the provider has to give you a system that is right for your business. Hard sell tactics that try to give you a basic GPS mapping system that you can download from Google for free is probably light on features that you would find useful to your business.

When to expect ROI

The initial outlay and investment involved in vehicle tracking systems can seem high, with good quality GPS devices still expensive. However, the return on your investment (ROI) will be something that can be factored into your company accounts over the long term and may actually begin to show sooner than expected. Savings on fuel consumption, reduction in insurance premiums for fleet vehicles fitted with GPS tracking, increased efficiency and greater customer satisfaction all combine to give you a rapid return on your initial investment. Expect to see returns within the first six to 12 months on your GPS tracking system.

Comparing service providers

Nothing in business beats a personal recommendation so if you know someone who has had a vehicle tracking system installed and is happy with the results, consider talking to their provider. Otherwise it's a matter of doing a little bit of homework before selecting your final provider. Consider factors such as what kind of after-care service is provided, if free updates to software are available and that the warranty is comprehensive. Don't compare providers purely on the aspect of pricing. Consider all the factors and remember to choose a company that you feel will work well with your company and give you the service you want. The Internet provides a wealth of information on service providers so a browse on Google may be your best starting point.

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Kent Stabler - Marketing Manager - Chameleon Direct are suppliers of gps vehicle tracking systems, gps tracking devices, hands free car kits and speed camera detector equipment. Our vehicle tracking aims at helping improve your fleet management. With over 1 Million UK customers Chameleon Direct also provide hands free installation services.


Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/automotive/finding-car-parts.html http://www.articletrader.com/automotive/finding-car-parts.html Mon, 15 Jun 2009 08:52:57 -0500
The Internet gives someone the additional option of giving the consumer the ability to shop around for the part, which helps to deliver the most bang for the buck. Specialty car parts from certain car companies are often difficult to locate. The vast array of websites allows one to track down the necessary part that is needed. Because of the array of choices the Internet offers, there is often a wide range of prices. Your local car part shop, which can be either a standalone shop or part of a car dealership, often will reduce their prices in order to remain competitive. For example, if someone scraps their car mirror and needs some touch up paint, it can be difficult to find the shade that matches your car or truck. Your local paint or department store is unable to carry every shade for every car. They are going to carry the main colours of the main models, in order to reach as many consumers as they can with the space that they have. The Internet doesn't have the limitation. The Internet allows for a simple search which can track down that irregular colour for that low volume model. It is truly remarkable how much easier the Internet makes it to find things that people need, and car parts is one of those areas.


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Hollie Wilcox is writing on behalf of www.breakeryard.com to provide you with the latest information about finding car parts .

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/automotive/motorbikes-vs.-motorcycles.html http://www.articletrader.com/automotive/motorbikes-vs.-motorcycles.html Mon, 15 Jun 2009 06:16:47 -0500
In actuality, bikes classed as motorbikes can tread close on their motorcycle cousins. With classifications such as supersport bikes, sport bikes, trail and enduro bikes, "naked" bikes, and finally heading down into the truly lightweight scooter range -- you'll find that "lightweight bike" is a matter of perception, if not actual physical weight.

When we think of a motorbike, essentially what comes to mind is the sports bike. These small, fast, light bikes are the ones that we see experienced (and perhaps not so experienced) young people control on bike ranges, in contests, up ramps, and in all sorts of acrobatic endeavours. When the kids ride them, they are known as crotch rockets and demand an almost mystic-like bonding between rider and bike to properly control. In other words, in the hands of the inexperienced, they can get away from you very quickly!

For the beginner, the "naked" or standard bike is recommended. Unlike the sports bike, they are not covered with cool plastic bits, instead are designed to be dropped and picked up again. Motorbikes, if you use the term to refer basically to the vehicles that are not really "street bikes" are off-road vehicles. There are hybrid classes, such as dual-sport bikes, that can go anywhere a street bike can, and almost anywhere an off-roader can. All riders must of course have motorbike insurance.

For racing, you have the motocross and Enduro class bikes. Enduros are road legal, and can be tricked out with features like horns, lights, and mufflers. They are used to race in Endurocross racing, which is usually a long-term, long course version of a motocross race with a few twists.

A final class of motorbike is the trail bike, which doesn't usually have a seat, is truly a much lighter machine with a low performance engine. Trail bikes are for trail riding, in off-road situations that other bikes cannot handle, and over obstacles that have to be seen to be believed in some competitions.


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For your bike insurance requirements -- be them on road, off road, sports bike and classic bikes, look no further than the expert advice from Carole Nash

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/automotive/car-parts-online.html http://www.articletrader.com/automotive/car-parts-online.html Mon, 15 Jun 2009 05:53:10 -0500
The Internet has allowed this process to happen for thousands of people every single day. Before the Internet, people would have to work the phones, go to car part shops, go to junk yards, all without a guaranteed outcome that they would be able to get what they needed. The Internet offers a number of advantages when looking for car parts. First, it gives someone access to a database on a particular part, which allows a person to see if their part is available.

Most of the time the part is available, which is good news for the consumer. The Internet gives someone the additional option of giving the consumer the ability to shop around for the part, which helps to deliver the most bang for the buck. Specialty car parts from certain car companies are often difficult to locate.

The vast array of web sites allows one to track down the necessary part they is needed. Because of the array of choices the Internet offers, there is often a wide range of prices. Your local car part shop, which can be either a stand alone shop or part of a car dealership, often will reduce their prices in order to remain competitive. For example, if someone scraps their car mirror and needs some touch up paint, it can be difficult to find the shade that matches your car or truck.

Your local paint or department store is unable to carry every shade for every car. They are going to carry the main colours of the main models, in order to reach as many consumers as they can with the space that they have.

The Internet doesn't have the limitation. The Internet allows for a simple search which can track down that irregular colour for that low volume model. It is truly remarkable how much easier the Internet makes it to find things that people need, and car parts is one of those areas.



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When choosing your online car parts vendor look no further than the online car part specialist which is www.breakeryard.com

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/automotive/car-maintenance-online.html http://www.articletrader.com/automotive/car-maintenance-online.html Wed, 10 Jun 2009 09:22:57 -0500
Unfortunately due to our new environmental sensitivities and the general price of real estate, this no longer is the case. For those brave folks who do there own repair work the Internet has become the preferred choice for finding used car parts. Many options exist online to source parts. the large auction sites have a huge selection of cheap used parts for almost any type of auto ranging from classics to your daily ride. In addition specific Internet locals have arisen that specialize in locating hard to find and exotic parts both new and used. These sites are easily found just do an Internet search for "cheap car parts" or "used auto parts" and you will have the choice of many. the savings available online from these sources compared to traditional brick and mortar auto parts stores is often dramatic.

Very often through careful Internet shopping the thrifty can save 50 to 75% from the retail price of many parts making the effort quite rewarding. Quite a few of these online sources will actively attempt to find a rare or difficult to obtain part even if they do not instantly have access to it. Many of the remaining auto salvage yards are plugged into these services locating parts throughout the country to supplement there own inventory. As with all online purchases care must be exercised in knowing who one is dealing with and while the larger sites offer reasonable guarantees on there used parts, "buyer be ware" is a safe and sensible mode of operation. When dealing with online auctions for parts one needs to do there homework to make sure they are bidding on the correct part for there application.

If you are outsourcing your repair work as most do today, and are hoping to save money by obtaining your own parts one should make sure that your mechanic is agreeable. Most professionals in auto repair today make a considerable profit on the parts they use. By bringing your own parts you remove this profit from the equation possibly making a very unhappy or even unwilling mechanic.

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There are a multitude of resources online to help the motoring fanatic to source and buy spare car parts. Those in the UK choose breakeryard.com for a specific reason!

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]> http://www.articletrader.com/automotive/the-gear-is-the-biking-thing.html http://www.articletrader.com/automotive/the-gear-is-the-biking-thing.html Tue, 09 Jun 2009 05:52:05 -0500 motorbike insurance are three categories of things that can make your ride a safer one. Primarily, the idea is to always think "what can I do to avoid an accident?" This is the primary safety concern of all bikers. Sometimes accidents are going to happen, no matter how careful you are, so it is best to be prepared. How best to protect yourself from injury? Secondary concerns come into play when you think about the fact that sometimes accidents are unavoidable, so how can injury be minimized? Here clothing and gear come into their own. With respect to your clothing you will want clothes that have some resistance to impact, and also resistance to abrasion (in the event you are dragged on rough surface). Your gear (helmet and gloves etc.) you'll want to be top of the line rated.

What is impact resistance? If you fall, you will hit the road. That is impact. For impact resistance, you will need padding in your clothing, which can absorb the force of the impact and spread out the load, minimizing injury to your body. Any point liable to contact the road may be a good place for a pad: shoulders, elbows, back, hips, knees etc. Buy your clothing with an eye to both hard and soft protection. A combination of the two is best, for example, Knox Armour runs about £20 - £50 depending on what you buy. If you cannot afford this, get high-density foam.

What is abrasion resistance? After you've impacted the road, you will probably skid or slide on it. Abrasion resistance is how long a fabric will last before it falls apart. For example, jeans have more abrasion resistance than light-weight polyester slacks. Leather, without a doubt, is the best abrasion resistant material you could buy for your motoring outfit. Motorbike leathers are thicker than fashion leather, which is a good thing. It will give you about ten times more protection than denim. Abrasion can do serious damage to skin and abrasions take a long time to heal properly, often producing scarring. So it's best not to skimp on your outfit, it is all that protects your skin from the asphalt.

On your gear, like your helmet, always check the ratings on the article before you buy. Helmets are mandatory in many countries, and a good helmet can protect against head injury like no other thing you'll ever own. Take a clue from the knights of old, don't scrimp on the headgear. A battleaxe clunking into your noggin is nothing compared to a bad cycling accident.

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The majority of bikers are road safe and extremely sensible on their bikes, very aware of the surroundings and the incompetence of other road users, for this reason Carole Nash offers the best bike insurance on the market.

Source: http://www.articletrader.com ]]>