Thursday, December 27, 2007

Harley Davidson Motorcycle: Why Is More Popular

With more than one hundred years notched on their belt, Harley Davidson is praised with building the best motorcycles on the planet. There is little doubt that they deserve the acclaim.

Arthur Davidson and William Harley dreamed of creating a "motorized bicycle" in their early adulthood. Test models were created and failed miserably, but this never deterred the boys from achieving their goal. Despite early models requiring foot power on hills, Harley and Davidson continued striving to create the "motorized bicycle" that they knew would become a success.

By 1906, the first fifty motorcycles were manufactured. A few years later, they followed with a line of motorcycles for police and military use. Short of a slowdown in the 1970s, Harley Davidson never stopped tweaking and improving their models. Today, Harley Davidson produces millions of motorcycles for use on every corner of the world.....


The distinct engine roar and loud vibrations through their tailpipes allow onlookers to hear the motorcycle far before it is visible. Listening to the strength of a Harley Davidson engine is an experience few will forget.

Three motorcycle nicknames were established courtesy of Harley Davidson. "Choppers" were born when the angle of the motorcycle's front fork was extended allowing the handlebars to sit further back. "Hogs" became aptly named for the extra room used to transport racing pigs without switching to a larger vehicle. Who said people are the only ones who can ride a Harley? "Harleys" offered a shorter, catchier way to name a motorcycle manufactured by Harley Davidson.

Every March, Harley Davidson takes the Daytona by storm. June brings the Harleys to New England by way of Laconia, New Hampshire. Sturgis, South Dakota becomes a home away from home for many riders every August. Thousands of Harley Davidson's enthusiasts attend these gatherings. Many leave with dreams of having their own bike customized to match what they have seen on other bikes.

In 1983, H.O.G., The Harley Owners Group, formed its first chapter. Today more than 1,000 chapters are in existence and more than one million members share their love of these bikes, whether they own one or not. The devotion to this fine brand is proven, and you do not have to be among the elite to enjoy all there is to Harley Davidson. There are also a slew of online forums and websites devoted to Harley Davidson. Not even Yamaha, BMW, Victory, or Honda come close to having the same fan base.

Even if you cannot afford a Harley, you can still show your enthusiasm for the maker by purchasing items from their merchandise line. All of these items help contribute to Harley Davidson's $5 billion revenue every year. Hey, the advertising helps too! Not that Harley Davidson is hurting for promotion.

Harley Davidson truly is the reigning champion of motorcycle manufacturers. What others strive to achieve in their lifetime, Harley Davidson has conquered.

PhotoCredit: http://www.hollywoodsgarage.ca , http://www.motorcycle-usa.com http://www.mehmetjan.com

Author: Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach Florida. Find more about this as well as motorcycle helmets at http://www.motorcycleaccessoriesplus.com


Harley Davidson Motorcycle: Why Is More Popular


Monday, December 10, 2007

How to Change Your Car’s Oil

There are many places you can go to get your oil changed. Most of the places are not too expensive, but they are often busy, and it is hard to get to the shop when you are busy working. If you are interested in changing your car’s oil yourself, there are things you should know. First of all, most cars are pretty much the same. If you have changed one car’s oil you can change all cars. While the oil pan may be located in a different area on the cars they are in the same general spot. Below are a few tips on how to change the oil in your car:

- You will need at least six quarts of oil. Preferably you will want to use the same type of oil you had in the engine before.

- You will also need to purchase a new oil filter. You will need to make sure you are buying the correct oil filter for the model of your car.

- During an oil change most people also change the air filter on their cars. The air filter tends to become dirty in about the same time as the oil needs changing especially on older model vehicles. Therefore you may wish to purchase an air filter as well.....


- If you have not done any prior work on the vehicle at home, you will need to purchase a car jack or tire racks. These racks allow you to drive up on them to elevate the front end of the car where you will be working. If you are using a jack or the racks you will need to place blocks behind the other two tires to keep the car from rolling.

- You will also want to make sure that the e- brake is on and that the car is in park. You need to elevate the car so that the oil will run out of the oil pan completely as well as make it easier for you to reach the oil pan.

- You will need something to catch the oil in. Most auto parts shops including those online will have oil pans that you can drain the oil into. These pans have a special design to make disposing of the oil into an oil drum easy.

- You will also need an oil filter wrench. This wrench must be the correct wrench for the size of filter you have. There are many sizes depending on the type of car you have. There are even oil filter wrenches for semi trucks. Another tool you will need is the wrench for the oil pan nut. This nut has to be removed to let the oil leak out. This is usually a metric or standard wrench depending on who manufactured your car. The best tool for this job is a socket wrench.

- Once you have all of the tools and other items you will need to locate the oil pan. It is best to look in your car manual for this information. Keep plenty of towels on hand as well.

- First you will want to loosen the nut on the oil pan, making sure that you are prepared for the first gush of oil by having the waste pan underneath the oil pan.

- Next you will want to locate the oil fill cap and remove it. Some manuals may tell you to do this first. I have found that this creates more of a gush if you wait to remove the hexagonal nut after, so the potential for a spill is higher.

- Once you have gotten the oil flowing out of the vehicle you can then set a bucket just under the oil filter. There will be a little oil drainage from the filter so having the bucket under there will help keep you from causing a spill. Once you have removed the old filter you can then screw on the new filter following the instructions on the box.

Now that you have removed all of the oil from your vehicle you will need to make sure that you replace the hexagonal nut on the oil pan and make sure that the oil filter is screwed on tight. Then you can begin replacing the oil. It is best to fill the engine with at least four bottles of oil and then let it settle. Check the engine oil level and then keep adding a quart until it is full. As stated above, most cars take six quarts.

PhotoCredit: http://cache.jalopnik.com

Author: Slav Vaskevich is an active contributing member of http://www.AbcCarParts.com - an online used car parts inventory and advertising network.


How to Change Your Car’s Oil


Thursday, December 6, 2007

Yamaha Dirt Bikes: Not For The Timid

There are few companies that can rival the products of Yamaha Dirt Bikes--known for its quality and superior work, this company consistently creates what the public wants. And, of course, its dirt bikes are of no exception. The Yamaha brand is one of power and precision and is a constant favorite of professional and amateur alike.

What astounds many riders, however, is the company's odd origins. Few can wrap their motocross minds around how a brand known for its dirt bikes could originally stood for music.

In 1888, Torakusu Yamaha founded the Yamaha Musical Instrument Company. It was a great success and, after only ten years, he joined with other like-minded businessmen to create the Nippon Gakki Company. Though Yamaha died in 1916, his company was able to stand natural disasters, labor problems and even World War Two. Of course, the company's production had changed to fit the times--what was left of war time machinery was used to create a new product: motorcycles.

Since then, Yamaha Dirt Bikes has become a leader among the field, creating quality products.

Now, dirt bikes are leading the Yamaha way and, of course, there are many to chose from. Whether you ride professionally or simply enjoy the thrill of racing your friends on back trails, there is a Yamaha dirt bike perfect for you.

Yamaha Dirt Bikes - Off-Road

WR450F: Perfect for the serious rider, the WR450F features a two position handlebar for higher adjustment range, new enduro computer and reinforced swingarms for better handling. It's priced at $6,799.

WR250F: With a 249cc, four-stroke engine and improved fuel flow for strong reliability, this Yamaha dirt bike is the essence of quality. Priced at $10,449, the WR250F is for the serious racer......

TT-R250: Even the most casual rider can appreciate this easy-to-handle, yet very powerful, offering. The CD ignition system never needs maintenance and the frame is designed for high impact. Priced at $4,499.

TT-R230: Created for superior handling and strength, the TT-R230 is excellent for any competition. Lightweight but stout, this bike will go wherever you need. Priced at $3,299.

TT-R125L/LE: At an affordable $2,749, this is the bike for the every-man. With excellent breaking abilities and stiffer suspension, it's one of the most safe on the market.

TT-R125E: Yamaha totes this as the "small but mighty" bike and with good reason. Created with novice riders in mind, this has pushbutton starting and drum brakes. It's listed at $2,449.

TT-R90E (mini): Ever felt you were too short to compete? Think again. This bike features a pushbutton electric start and a low seat height for added ease with shorter legs. The TT-R90E is priced at $1,699.

TT-R50E (mini): Want to give you child a dirt bike? This is a definite contender. Easy to maintain and even easier to use with a 49cc engine and a frame perfect for smaller riders, this $1,149 could be for you.

PW80 (mini): For riders looking to transition to a new bike, this could be perfect. The PW80 has a 79cc two-stroke engine and semiautomatic 3-speed transmission. Priced at $2,389.

PW50 (mini): With a 49cc two-stroke engine and a fully automatic transmission, the PW50 is a powerful but dependable dirt bike. Priced at an affordable $1,899, this is a guaranteed hit.

Yamaha Dirt Bikes - Motocross:

YZ450F: Built to race, the YZ450F is the ultimate lightweight contender, with new upgraded suspension and handling. The price ranges from $6,899 to $7,099, depending on the style you buy.

YZ250 (2-stroke): With a price tag of $6,199, this bike stands for power. It's already a winner of multiple competitions and with good reason: speed sensitive system and power-valve-equipped ripper.

YZ250F: For the racer in your family, consider this dirt bike. With increased mass centralization for better balance and suspension reinforcements in the front and back, this $5,999 is a promise in perfection.

YZ125 (2-stroke): Named the 125cc Shootout Winner by "Dirt Rider", "Dirt Bike" and "Transworld Motocross", this dirt bike has a mighty heritage and ever mightier features. Priced at $5,499.

YZ85 (2-stroke mini): Compact and lightweight, this bike is designed for sharp handling and superior maneuverability. Novices will appreciate its simplicity and its affordable price tag: $3,099.

Whatever your experience or riding style, Yamaha Dirt Bikes have something for every enthusiast.

Sponsored by: http://www.balootisme.com

Author: Mark Sturge is the webmaster at http://www.dirtbike-action.com A site where visitors can find information on Honda dirt bikes and other ranges such as Yamaha dirt bikes as well as useful hints and tips for dirtbike enthusiasts.


Yamaha Dirt Bikes


Shopping Online For Truck Parts

Before looking for truck accessories distributor means a lot of work, research as well as consultation. We have seen truck accessories distributor being swallowed up by big companies and as a result they usually lost touch with the most important part of their business – US.

4WheelParts.com - Your Off-Road Superstore

I always believe that in order for businesses to be successful they should focus also to their clients needs. Aside from great products and affordable prices they should also give their clients the best services (customer support and assistance) that they can give. Their name will surely spread like fire through word of mouth from their satisfied clients which is one of the best kinds of advertisement.......

Today, with the help of internet, you can easily find good truck parts distributor that include their clients in their priorities. You can easily find the parts and accessories that you are looking for. With just a click of a button, you can easily shop for the parts and accessories that you need such as suspension lift kits, tonneau covers, fender flares, atv plows, nerf bars, side steps, running bars and other hard to find parts. Aside from easily finding what you need, you can shop at the comfort of your home. You don’t need to experience another back pain from driving around looking for the parts that you need. Another great thing shopping online is there are online shops that offer good bargains, wholesale pricing and good money back guarantees.


Off-Road Wheels and Tires – 4WheelParts.com
The internet has a lot to offer to those who are already tired of hunting for great deals, offers and products. The internet has become our choice in shopping, mainly because there are a lot of online shops out there that will go extra effort to satisfy our needs. With internet, parts and accessories for your trucks are now easier to find and can also be shipped just like other major manufactures. So before you go out of your house and waste your time driving around looking for that truck part check the internet first because will surely save you a lot of time! So, enjoy your shopping.

Author: Jeffrey Eugenio. If you would like to shop for truck parts and accessories visit http://4wheelonline.com



Shopping Online For Truck Parts


Wednesday, November 28, 2007

Motorcycle Rims Can Add Glamour To A Bike

Motorcycle rims are like a pair of sunglasses; they can add glamor and change the way your bike looks. But you should not limit the utility of the rims to their looks. The rims play a far more important role in the way your bike runs.

There are basically two types of motorcycle rims: solid and laced. In the solid rim, the spokes as well the rim are fused to form a single, circular plate. The metal used here is usually solid aluminum.

Laced rims, on the other hand, are the conventional spoke wheels where a series of spokes are fused to the rim. The spokes add structural strength to the rim and also give the bike an individual look.

The Billet Motorcycle Wheels are also a rage. Here, the wheel unit is carved out of a single block of aluminum. What is interesting is that using computer aided designing, you can carve out really intricate spoke designs. You can also opt for a chrome finish. Billet designs can dramatically alter the look of your machine.

So what kind of rim-wheel combination is best for you?.......

There is no doubt that it is the laced variety. When you have spokes that attach the rim to the hub, you get better impact absorption than a solid wheel. The absorbed impact is spread evenly across the rim over a wider area because of flexibility. A solid wheel on the other hand is not flexible, so the full impact is absorbed only at the point of impact.

You also need to consider maintenance. Keep your rims in mint condition to avoid corrosion as that can lead to weak points. Since wheels are subject to a lot of stress there is always the possibility of broken spokes and punctured tubes, not to mention mishaps.

It is also a good policy to use rim locks to make sure that the tires don’t slip off the rims. You should also make sure that the rim is always aligned. One easy way of doing this is to put the bike on the centre stand and then spin the wheels. Any lateral or vertical oscillation will immediately be noticeable. You can usually knock back a wheel into shape with a hammer and a small block of wood. But if you are not up to it, take it to a mechanic and get it done.

Remember: Keep the rim in shape and your bike will cut a great figure.

Author: James Gunaseelan writes articles & reviews for http://BharathAutomobiles.com ,India's No.1 Auto Portal



Motorcycle Rims Can Add Glamour To A Bike


Thursday, November 22, 2007

BMW M-Series

What is a sports car? There have already been quite a few personal definitions to what a sports car sounds to them. However, for most people, a sports car is a BMW.



BMW now adds up yet another product to their still growing family of vehicles. And right now, the new addition is the 2006 BMW M. It is a roadster. And it just goes to show that BMW meant business for this car. Its past shows a colorful BMW tradition as well as an in-depth research before it was actually constructed. Just go through its stretched engine compartment, its long wheelbase, its short tail, and its two low set of seats that all in all provides a high powered and very passionate driving experience, and one would be able to picture that, indeed, BMW is yet on the road, again, to success......

What are the features of the BMW M roadster? Well, for power, it has a front engine and a rear wheel drive system. Its engine is a DOHC in line engine with 24 valves. It is an iron block with an aluminum head. It can displace 192 cubic inches or some 3152 cc. It also has the capacity to produce some 240 bhp at 6000 rpm. Aside form that, it also has a five speed manual transmission. The suspension is provided in two options. The first is the independent front suspension. It has damper struts, lower control arms, coil springs, and an anti-roll bar. As per the other one, it is an independent rear suspension with dampers, semi-trailing arms, coil springs, and anti-roll bars.

How large is the BMW M? It measures some 96.8 inches for its wheelbase. Its rear is 55.0 inches. It has a curb weight of 3084 pounds, plus a fuel capacity of 13.5 gallons. If you want to put in some cargo, you can always do so for it has a meager cargo capacity of 5.1 cubic feet.

The steering of this roadster is a rack and pinion one with variable ratio and is variable power assisted. It has a turning circle of 34.1 feet. The brakes are vented discs for both the front and the rear. There is also the anti lock braking system. As per the wheels and tires of this vehicle, the BMW M comes equipped with 17 x 7.5 inches front and 17 x 9.0 inches rear cast aluminum wheels. There also are 225/45ZR-17 tires for the front and 245/40ZR-17 tires for the rear. These are both Michelin Pilot SX MXX3 tires.

As BMW ventures into high and advanced technology as well as great performance in their sports cars and other upcoming vehicles, http://www.accessoriesgiant.com never stops delivering top of the line BMW replacement parts as part of its commitment to its loyal customers worldwide. Rallying behind BMW’s philosophy of producing only the best in the industry, Auto Accessories Giant with its wide array of impressive BMW accessories gives it customer’s genuine quality BMW products at guaranteed low prices.

Author: Shane Morgay is a 34-year-old native of Ohio. She love cars and knows detailed information about them. She has a collection of miniature car collectibles and would love to have these collectibles become real ones. She works for a car part supplier most days of the week. Visit http://www.accessoriesgiant.com/bmw.html for more information about his Giant Accessories BMW






BMW M-Series


Wednesday, November 21, 2007

Navigation Devices or GPS Systems

If you are like most people you spend a lot of time stuck in traffic. According to statistics U.S. drivers spend about an average of 47 hours a year in traffic, and in large urban areas, drivers can spend more than 60 hours a year.

That is why a growing number of drivers are finding they can reduce time and increase comfort by using technology that helps them find and chart the best route to their destination by adding GPS navigation systems to their vehicles.......

A GPS, or Global Positioning System, is a device that uses satellite technology to pinpoint the location of a receiver. This GPS receiver will provide the driver with important information such as location, estimated time, and recommend a route to a destination. These systems have become so sophisticated that some have added the benefit of playing music. Simply download the desired files onto the hard drive and users can have their music library wherever they go.

Here at Car Lectroinics.com we carry a varied to fit everyone’s needs. Whether you are looking for city, off-road driving, or hiking trails, we carry them all. Is portable or an installed unit better for you? How easy is the screen display to read? And car the unit provides information on current traffic conditions? These are some of the questions you may want to ask yourself before looking at our wide array of items.

Author: Bertram Van Strander, III. Being a car enthusiast for 38 years has its advantages. We have seen, purchased and tried almost everything new to come along. And experience is the best teacher. That’s why I started http://www.CarLectronics.com This way I can do it right!



Navigation Devices or GPS Systems


Friday, November 16, 2007

Car Buying Tips: Five Things You Need To Know To Avoid Hidden Fees And Additional Costs

Before purchasing your next car, you're going to want to check for hidden costs, add-on fees, and other charges. You could end up spending hundreds, even thousands, of dollars over the lifetime of your loan.

Once you've found the car you want, it's time to sit down with your sales rep to negotiate the terms of your contract. After a little back and forth on price, figuring out your interest rate, and calculating your monthly payment, you're ready to sign on the dotted line, right?

Not so fast.

When you read the fine print you may find that additional fees and charges have found their way into your contract – including add-ons you didn't necessarily ask for.

Most car buyers are so focused on getting the best interest rate and negotiating the most affordable monthly payment that they're unconcerned with the fine print of the contract. By the time they get to the step where they review and sign the paperwork, if the sales rep is throwing industry terms at them that they don't fully understand, they're becoming exhausted from the entire process and just want to get it over with.

Here are a few insider tips to make sure you don't regret signing those papers......

1.) Read the Fine Print

While this seems pretty obvious and self-explanatory, it's amazing how trusting the consumer can be. Honestly, the last time you bought a car, did you read and fully understand the contract before you signed it? Probably not. Most people don't.

Some unscrupulous car dealerships are betting on that. Because most people don't read the fine print, some sales reps can slide in additional, undisclosed charges or extras with huge mark-ups to their profit.

Also, make sure there are no blank spaces on your finance contract that can be filled in later – wherever there are blank spaces, write in "$0" or "N/A."

2.) Typical Extras

Most of us are familiar with learning about the standard features of an automobile and then figuring out which additional features we are willing to pay extra for, but here are some extras to look out for when reviewing your contract:

* Rust proofing
* Extended warranty
* Fabric protector
* Car alarm (including Lojack, a device police use to find your car if you report it stolen)
* Paint sealant
* Credit life insurance
* GAP
* Window etching

The value of such extras depends on individual customer needs and situations. If the sales rep attempts to tell you that some or all of these extras are standard for every vehicle on the lot, ask to order your car from the factory, or suggest the dealership trade with another dealer that hasn't pre-packaged their vehicles.

Extra products can add thousands to the negotiated price of the vehicle. Most products fill a customer need that when priced and disclosed correctly and can add real value to the whole transaction.

The problems with extras occur in two areas. First, when the sales rep doesn't spend the time necessary to determine which products fit the specific needs of the customer. Rather than suggest specific extras individually priced, the sales rep lumps all the products together and pushes you to buy them as a package.

Second, unscrupulous sales reps can add thousands of dollars to the amount financed for these products, but not disclose the price increase until the last possible moment, when the financing contracts are being signed.

3.) Documentation and Administration Fees

Federal, state, and local governments are pushing more and more of their regulatory cost onto the local dealerships. In an effort to offset some of these fees and services dealers are required to perform, most add, a documentation or administration fee to the total cost of the transaction. Depending on state and local regulations, fee adding $100 to $150 seem reasonable and cover most of these additional items. These services include:

* Duplicate Title Fees
* Notice of Security Interest (to perfect lien)
* 30-day Permits
* Federal terrorist matching data bases
* Federal information privacy requirements
* State vehicle id verification
* Highway Patrol Inspections for out-of-state titles
* Registering leases at customer's county of residence
* Carfax
* FedEx charges/Shipping charges
* Additional title addendums
* Truth in lending record retention

Some dealers have taken up the practice of marking up documentation and administrative fees and are now charging as high as $300 to $500 per sale. A few are even higher. The charge for most of these fees seems to be more based on getting a customer to pay extra after the customer has finished negotiating, not the average amount it cost to get most deals through various state and federal regulations, as implied.

4.) Ask for a Menu System Disclosure

The best disclosure method I've seen in years involved using a menu system. On a separate sheet of paper the rep produces a document that includes:

  • The negotiated price of the vehicle or trade difference
  • The additional price of suggested extras (these can be shown as various option packages that may save money when bought in combination and as individually priced options)
  • New totals initialed by both parties
This procedure makes sure that any suggested extras are properly explained and disclosed. It also allows the customer time to consider each item separate from the longer and potentially confusing finance documents. The final numbers from the menu should get carried over directly to the finance document.

5.) Other Costs

When buying a car, remember that there are other "hidden" costs (or, costs that aren't usually considered), that go beyond the dealership.

During the lifetime of your vehicle, you're going to have to pay for registration and tags, taxes, insurance, oil changes and fuel every year, and periodically pay for maintenance and repairs. Older models (cars more than 3-5 years old) may cost less up front, but you will likely need to factor more maintenance and repair costs into your budget than if you bought a newer model. While new models need fewer repairs and maintenance work, you will have to pay more up front.

Your wallet does not have to go through the ringer the next time you decide to visit a new or used car dealer. You can protect yourself from blindly signing into an unfavorable car deal by doing your homework, going to a car dealership with a good reputation, being prepared, asking questions, and double checking behind your sales rep.

Author: Scott Conklin is president of Conklin Cars, a Salina new/used car dealer, Hutchinson new/used car dealer, and Newton new/used car dealer in Kansas

Car Buying Tips: 5 Things You Need To Know To Avoid Hidden Fees And Additional Costs


Thursday, November 15, 2007

2008 BMW 650i Pros And Cons

The BMW 6 series was relaunched in 2004 with the BMW 645i. This car was a two door, four passenger luxury sports car. This car is ideal for a sports car enthusiast who would prefer a larger, more practical car compared to the 650's 2 passenger, lighter peers. In 2006, BMW upgraded the 645i to a 650i by increasing the engine a little. When including options and taxes, the 650i tends to run at about $80,000, so it's not exactly cheap. Here are the pros and cons of the car:

Pros

Amazing handling: The car is amazing to drive. When you drive the car, you feel as if you have total control over the vehicle. A car such as the Mercedes CLS (also priced near $80k) just cannot match this car's handling. The BMW 650i definitely has the handling one would expect from a German-made luxury sports car......

Gadgets: The BMW 650i comes with BMW's Idrive, an all-encompassing electronic system. The Idrive controls the navigation system, music, air conditioning, as well as communication system. The Idrive also has voice command, making it easy to use when driving. Some believe the Idrive is a bit difficult to operate. That's hogwash. Within two weeks of owning the car, anyone competent enough to use a computer or a DVD should be able to operate the Idrive flawlessly. The Idrive is the gadget-lover's ultimate car toy.

Interior: The interior of the 650i is beautiful. It has modern, classy feel to it. Your taller passengers will certainly appreciate being seated in the front though, as the back is not exactly spacious.

Acceleration: With a V8 and 360 hp, the car isn't exactly going to be outrun by a Civic. The acceleration and amazing breaks can also help you get out of accidents that other cars wouldn't be able to avoid.

Cons






Reliability: Expect to make stops at the service center every now and then. While it is a wonderful car, it is prone to electronic and tire issues.

Price: At about $80,000, it's not exactly in the everyman's budget. But if you are willing to spend this much money on a car, the 650i is definitely a good one to check out.

Author: baLooTisme


BMW 650i Pros And Cons


Tuesday, November 13, 2007

Electric Vehicle Battery Sizes

We all have used batteries in the course of our everyday lives, whether consciously or unconsciously. With gadgets and technology, we often completely forget that batteries are everywhere. Until they stop working, that is! It’s a little different with larger high-powered batteries. They are used and recharged and require maintenance. With the coming of the electric vehicle as a viable driving alternative, the conversation must soon turn to the realities of the electric vehicle battery. Of immediate concern are capacity, size and weight.

Now this article has as its focus the size of electric vehicle batteries. For example, a standard vehicle battery is measured in inches (9 x 12 x 7). The car battery market is well established and at the present time, size is inextricably tied to capacity. The real issue is power for acceleration and maintaining speeds above 10-15 mph which require lots of amperage (Amps). So, in the case of electric cars, more capacity means more amps and more amps require more electric vehicle batteries. This is where size plays a part; it’s about the space needed for sufficient battery storage....


Size is not the only challenge with the use of electric vehicle batteries. With our existing technology, with size comes weight and this further complicates electric vehicle efficiency. Having a car full of batteries leaves little room for people, additional payloads and everyday shopping items. We’re already used to golf carts; now we’re seeing the two seater electric vehicles coming into its own in urban areas. We haven’t solved all the problems yet, but the process has finally begun – people are now considering driving electric vehicles, battery issues aside. Alternative lifestyle isn’t just for hippies anymore.

People are changing their opinions, with growing concern about environmental impact, economic sustainability and the rising cost of dependence on oil-based fuels. All these factors are playing their part in what could become a great national transformation. Hybrids are bridging the gap while an old industry reinvents itself. Eventually the electric vehicle battery issues will resolve themselves. Meanwhile, take a quiet stroll and think about what a quiet, peaceful ride in the fresh air would be like. You never know, we might even enjoy slowing down to stop and smell the roses.


Author: Kerry Ng is a successful Webmaster and publisher of The Hybrid Cars Blog. Click here for more helpful information about Hybrid Cars: http://www.hybridcarsinfoblog.com/electric-car-engine


Electric Vehicle Battery Sizes


Friday, November 9, 2007

Dodge Magnum SRT8

Thanks to the Chrysler Group’s relationship with Mercedes – both companies are owned by DaimlerChrysler – the automaker markets a successful group of full size, rear wheel drive cars powering the Dodge and Chrysler brands. Tapping Mercedes technology in the form of their suspensions, rear differentials, and automatic transmissions three vehicles, including the Dodge Magnum, are now gracing North American highways with their “can’t miss” presence. The Dodge Magnum wagon, as the first vehicle based on the LX platform, has successfully erased most people’s concept of what a “station wagon” should be. With its menacing front end, rakish body lines, and abundant hauling capacity the Magnum is no mere “mom mobile” instead, the car is a true sport wagon. Taking that theme to the extreme is the Magnum SRT8, the ultimate fusion of sport wagon and muscle car.

When it comes to engines, Magnum owners have plenty of choices. From the 2.7L V6 powering the SE, to the 3.5L V6 found underneath the hood of the SXT, to the explosive intensity generated by the 5.7L Hemi V8 that comes with the sporty R/T, Magnum owners have a variety of choices not found in many vehicle’s of its class. Thinking that some Dodge fanatics would want even something more powerful than the R/T, the brand released the SRT8 in 2005 which features a 6.1L Hemi V8 that bangs out an extraordinary 425 horses and 420 lb.-ft of torque. Add on the 20 inch aluminum wheels, firm up the suspension, and equip the model with bigger brakes and you have one untamable Magnum!

Even with its added luster, the Magnum SRT8 isn’t keeping Dodge devotees from pimping their rides to help them achieve the look and feel that they want. Some popular, highly desirable aftermarket parts for the Magnum SRT8 include:






Cool/Cold Air Intake Systems – If you want even more horsepower and improved torque, then an air intake system for your Magnum is in order. Airaid and Dub Air are two brands that have effectively created systems that have been specifically made for your Magnum SRT8. With the Airaid you have a choice of two models; the premium version comes with a Ram air scoop for added good looks. Both Airaid systems bump up horsepower by 14 and torque by 17, while the Dub Air produces near equal power improvements as well. Enjoy the throaty tone of an air intake system with your SRT8!



Performance Exhaust Systems – The Magnum SRT8’s exhaust system is adequate, but a Magnaflow Exhaust maximizes performance with its cat-back design and stainless steel properties. You get a rich exhaust tone, see horsepower and torque increase by 16 and 19 respectively, and you get a lifetime warranty with your Magnaflow exhaust system. Yes, the same stainless steel used by Boeing and Airbus in their jets is the steel that is used by Magnaflow.

Of course, many enthusiasts are installing both the performance intake system and the exhaust system to help them achieve the ultimate driving experience that a Dodge Magnum SRT8 can possibly offer to them.

Yes, there is nothing “station” about the Dodge Magnum, a car with the potential to effectively haul people, haul stuff, and to haul ass!


Author: Matthew C. Keegan is a freelance writer for Premier Truck Accessories: http://www.premiertruckaccessories.com a leading retailer of SRT aftermarket products for the Dodge Magnum SRT8: http://www.premiertruckaccessories.com/srt8.html including performance air intake and exhaust systems: http://www.premiertruckaccessories.com/srt8combo4.html . Please stop by our online shop today to explore our huge supply of performance parts and accessories.


Dodge Magnum SRT8


1969 Chevrolet Chevelle SS

It was 1969. And what an amazing year it was! The Beatles’ world renowned hit Come Together was at the top of the music charts along with Johnny Cash’s A Boy Named Sue, Neil Armstrong set foot on the moon, and the 1969 Chevy Chevelle SS, now a classic muscle car, was born. The Chevy Chevelle SS met the demands of muscle car enthusiasts for small cars with powerful motors. Its sporty fast-back body style which was first concocted in the redesign of the 1968 models gave it a touch of class as did the new design of the tail lights. Chevelles are mid-sized cars meeting the median between small sports cars and large family cars.




The 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle line was the first to have the SS 396 option available but it wasn’t perfect as it resulted the 396 became known for poor handling as it required stiffer springs and shocks than earlier models. Later in the year, the 396 option was replaced with a 402 cubic engine, supposedly due to emission standards. Even in light of the minor imperfections in its initial release, the Chevy Chevelle SS was an incredibly popular muscle car in its time and became one of the very best sellers of all times.

Limited edition Chevelles were a favorite amongst drag racers due to the powerful engine options, 427s, that could be special ordered. Limited edition Chevelles are few and far between in this day and age, but if you find one, they are worth a pretty penny. Classic car enthusiasts and speed demons alike admire these beauties.


Chevelles were first released in 1963 with a standard 327 cubic-inch V8, 300 horsepower engine. However, at that time the Pontiac GTO has a 389 that was unmatched. Chevrolet responded to the competition over the years by gradually increasing the power of their motors.

Chevy continued to produce Chevelles until 1973.

If you go to car shows where muscle cars are featured, you are sure to see 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle SS models because collectors absolutely love them. They are fast, high-performing cars as well as being practical size-wise which makes them pretty unique. The 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle SS is a car that is appealing to both classic car collectors and racers. Its got style, its got speed and its incredibly durable making it a muscle car classic that just about anyone would be honored to own.

Sponsored by: http://www.balootisme.com


Author: Jason Tarasi is a muscle car enthusiast who runs the Muscle Car Monster Website, where members can buy and sell muscle cars for free through the site's online classifieds. http://www.musclecarmonster.com




1969 Chevrolet Chevelle SS