Articles

Riding a dirt bike can be an exhilarating experience, especially if you are a beginner. However, before hopping on your bike and hitting the dirt trails, there are essential techniques that you need to know. These techniques will enable you to better handle your bike, enjoy your ride, and stay safe. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the critical dirt bike techniques that every beginner should know.

Balancing:
The first technique every beginner should learn is balancing. Balancing is a core fundemental, and it is the foundation of riding a dirt bike. The sooner you master the balance, the more comfortable and safer you will feel on your bike. One way to master balance is to keep your head up and look ahead. It helps your body to naturally adjust and keep the bike balanced as the terrains change. Over time, you'll learn to adjust to each situation with ease.

Cornering:
Cornering is another critical technique that every beginner should focus on. Cornering involves leaning your bike to either the left or right to get around corners. Proper cornering technique is critical for maintaining control of your bike, and it helps you maintain speed around turns. To do so, you have to shift your weight and lean towards the inside of the turn, while balancing your bike and throttle. Remember, always approach a turn at a safe speed.

Braking:
Braking is another crucial technique that every beginner should master. Learning how to brake is vital, as it helps you slow down and stop your bike efficiently. The best way to brake is to use both the front and back brakes gradually. Use your back brake as your primary function, but do not rely too much on it, especially if you’re riding on rough terrain. As you gain confidence, you can then start incorporating the use of your front brakes when slowing down.

Shifting:
Shifting is another essential technique every beginner should master. Shifting gears can seem challenging at first, but once you know how to shift, it will become second nature. Always start shifting in lower gears and work your way up. This will allow you to get comfortable with the bike's power and speed. As you ride more, you will learn how to shift like a pro, and even adjust to different terrains easily.

Body Position:
Body position is vital when riding a dirt bike. Proper positioning gives you the necessary control and balance you need to confidently ride. The main body positioning is to keep your elbows up and out, your shoulders relaxed, feet and knees close to the bike, and head up. By keeping your upper body loose and relaxed, your lower body then becomes your main focus. Proper body position will keep you balanced, help you maneuver your bike, and prevent fatigue.

By mastering these essential techniques, every beginner can confidently ride their dirt bike. Remember, learning is a continuous process, and it takes practice and patience to perfect your skills. Always remember to ride within your limits and respect your bike and the terrain you’re riding on. So, practice, enjoy your ride, and stay safe on the trails. If you would like to talk to some seasoned riders come into the shop and ask how we can help! Happy riding!

So the electric wave is here! 

The race has begun for manufacturers to create the most well rounded and powerful electric dirt bikes. While the enthusiests of the sport are still sticking to their roots of 2 strokes and 4 strokes, a new wave of riders are looking for information about where, when, and how they can acquire and ride their new interest! 

Some of the most common questions are; 

1. Can I ride an electric dirt bike on the streets? 

While we always recommend to check with your local DMV for the most up to date information on laws regarding OHV (off highway vehicles) we can tell you that the same rules for gas powered dirt bikes apply to battery operated ones. So in short No, you can not ride your electric motorcycles on the street unless it has been made street legal and plated by the DMV, Stick to OHV trails and tracks. Most Electric Dirt Bikes are provided a Green Sticker which makes places to ride more available for longer periods of time throughout the year. 

2. Do I have to Register my Electric Dirt Bike? 

Yes, your electric dirt bike should have a VIN (vehicle identification number) on the neck of the frame. Since they are still so new some have tried to sell these without the proper license and not register the dirt bike with the DMV at the point of sale. If you are caught with an unregistered electric dirt bike by a ranger, police, or sherrif it will be impounded. There have been some cases brought to our attention where the vehicle was auctioned before the previous owner was able to register the vehicle and had to purchase another or lose out all together. Make sure you are buying these vehicles from dealerships to confirm your vehicle goes through the proper registration channels. 

3. What are the benefits of having an electric dirt bike over a traditional dirt bike? 

This comes down to a few simple things. If you understand the fundementals of a combustion engine and can track service intervals and maintenance specifications you are in good shape to enjoy a gas powered dirt bike. Keep in mind that you can absolutely have a service department like ours take care of all of your maintenance needs suggested by the factory. However if you prefer to have little to no maintenance regarding fluids and filters you may be a better candidate for an electric dirt bike. Lubing and adjusting the chain, break pad changes, and cable lubrication is about the extent of the routine maintenance on an electric dirt bike. The standard tire, fork seal, break bleeding, etc. are still standard for both. 

4. How long does an electric dirt bike run for? 

There are a lot of different factors that go into this question. Where are you going to be riding? What type of ride mode are you going to be in? Hills, dirt, mud, sand, packed dirt, jumps, and more. We always recommend to read the manufacturer testing specifications for each model that you are interested in. Also take into consideration where you like to ride most or where you can ride most. On an average scale with a full charge and the right riding conditions you can get anywhere from 1 hour to 4 hours of ride time on an electric dirt bike. Some manufacturers go by miles. 25- 70 miles seems to be an industry standard range for most electric dirt bikes. 

5. Where can I buy an electric dirt bike? 

Remember earlier when I mentioned that there were some people and places selling these vehicles without registering them? Avoid those places. Look into Powersports dealerships like ours to have full confidence that your vehicle will be properly sold and registered to you at the point of sale. We carry Sur-Ron and RFN now at Ken and Joe's and are excited to have them! 

Thank you for taking the time to read this blog post and learn more about your new interest in Electric Dirt Bikes! If you have any questions or comments about this point or would like to request a revision please contact jon@kenandjoes.com

Happy Trails! 

Are you ready to take your motorcycle riding skills to the next level? Getting a motorcycle endorsement in California is not as difficult as it may seem. Here are some tips on how to obtain that all-important license:

We recommend CMSP, You will learn fundamental skills required to operate the motorcycle and progress to street riding skills and strategies. Upon successful completion you will earn a DMV skills test waiver (DL389). Here are some more specific rules for those who are under 18 years old.

Motorcycle Instruction Permit (California Vehicle Code section 12509.5)

This law requires a person under 18 years of age to complete a California Highway Patrol-approved motorcycle training course at a California Motorcyclist Safety Program (CMSP) training site in California. This course must be completed before obtaining a motorcycle instruction permit and requires the permit to be held for 6 months before being issued a class M motorcycle driver license endorsement.

To enroll in a CMSP course you must have at least one of the following:

• A valid driver’s license from one of the 50 states, a California DMV-issued automobile learners permit, or a California DMV issued identification card. CMSP accepts out-of-state driver’s licenses that are acceptable to the California Department of Motor Vehicles.
• Any person younger than 18 years must also have the written permission of his/her/their parent(s) or legal guardian.
• Any potential student who possesses a license that has been restricted due to one or more convictions for driving while impaired may not participate in any CMSP Motorcyclist Training Course (MTC) until all restrictions to the license have been lifted. All potential students will be asked to attest that they are not in possession of a restricted license.
• In order to avoid having unnecessary delays in obtaining your motorcycle license endorsement we recommend the following steps:

1. Enroll in a CMSP MTC, find one near you by following this link.
2. Upon completion go the California DMV website and download a copy of the DMV California Motorcycle Handbook to read and study for the DMV’s written exam.
3. Make an appointment to visit your local DMV Field Office or drop by one near you during business hours.
4. Apply for your motorcycle permit and take the DMV written exam. The written exam is based off of the DMV’s Motorcycle Handbook. If you do not pass the written exam reschedule after reviewing the DMV California Motorcycle Handbook and keep in mind the application for your permit is only valid for 12 months.
5. Upon successful completion of the DMV’s written exam you will receive your motorcycle operator’s permit. You will be restricted from riding at night, on freeways and with a passenger. Use this 6-month period to work on your mental and physical riding skills as well as understanding your motorcycle’s specifications and operation.
6. After 6 months you may make an appointment to visit to a DMV Field Office to acquire your motorcycle endorsement on your driver’s license.

I personally have taken the beginners course with CMSP and can say their instructors know how to engage, stay motivated, and are very good at demonstrating what needs to be accomplished. Now the only thing left to do is get out there and enjoy your newfound freedom! Happy riding.

Technical Differences between a 2023 Honda Talon 1000 and a 2023 Kawasaki Teryx 1000

Side by side off-road vehicles have been an essential part of the off-roading community for many years. These machines are built to tackle rough terrain that conventional vehicles cannot handle. Two of the most popular side by side off-road vehicles currently on the market are the 2023 Honda Talon 1000 and the 2023 Kawasaki Teryx 1000. Both vehicles are well-built, but each comes with its own set of technical differences. In this post, we will explore those differences and help you decide which vehicle would be right for you.

Engine Power and Transmission: The 2023 Honda Talon 1000 is powered by a powerful 999cc parallel twin engine that delivers 104 horsepower and 87 lb-ft of torque. It also features a six-speed dual-clutch transmission that provides smooth, efficient shifting. In comparison, the 2023 Kawasaki Teryx 1000 is powered by a 999cc V-twin engine that delivers 112 horsepower and 75 lb-ft of torque. It features a belt-driven continuously variable transmission (CVT) that offers excellent power delivery and is easy to use.

Suspension: Suspension is a critical component of any off-road vehicle. The 2023 Honda Talon 1000 features a three-link front suspension and a four-link rear suspension that provides excellent stability and comfort. It also has 14.6 inches of front suspension travel and 15.1 inches of rear suspension travel. On the other hand, the 2023 Kawasaki Teryx 1000 comes with double wishbone front suspension and a four-link trailing arm rear suspension that provides exceptional handling and stability. It also has 10.8 inches of front suspension travel and 10.0 inches of rear suspension travel.

Brakes: Brakes are crucial for off-road vehicles, especially when driving on steep and rough terrain. The 2023 Honda Talon 1000 comes with four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes that provide excellent stopping power, even in wet and muddy terrain. The 2023 Kawasaki Teryx 1000 features four-wheel hydraulic disc brakes with twin-piston calipers that provide excellent stopping power and are easy to modulate.

Tires and Wheels: The 2023 Honda Talon 1000 and the 2023 Kawasaki Teryx 1000 both come standard with 28-inch tires. The wheels of the Honda Talon 1000 are made of lightweight aluminum alloy, while the Kawasaki Teryx 1000's wheels are made of steel. The Honda Talon 1000's tires are designed for a smooth ride, while the Kawasaki Teryx 1000's tires are more aggressive and offer better traction off-road.

Other Features: Both the 2023 Honda Talon 1000 and the 2023 Kawasaki Teryx 1000 come with a wide range of features. The Honda Talon 1000 has a spacious cabin, a roof, and a full windshield (option) that provides excellent visibility. The Kawasaki Teryx 1000 offers a comfortable cabin, a roof, and a full windshield (option) that protects riders from the elements. It also has an electronic power steering system that provides excellent control and handling.

In conclusion, both the 2023 Honda Talon 1000 and the 2023 Kawasaki Teryx 1000 are excellent side by side off-road vehicles with their own set of technical differences. The Honda Talon 1000 provides a powerful engine, excellent suspension, and versatile tires, while the Kawasaki Teryx 1000 delivers exceptional horsepower, handling, and braking. So, before making your purchase decision, consider your off-roading needs and go for the perfect one that fits both your requirements and your budget.

Call or email us today to learn more about how one of these models could be yours! 

661-254-2929

sales@kenandjoes.com

Being a Dunlop Pro Dealer means we take pride in offering our customers the highest quality tires for their motorcycles. Being a Dunlop Pro Dealer means that we have been selected by Dunlop to meet their high standards of customer service, expertise, and professionalism. It's a title that we wear with pride, and it comes with many benefits that we are excited to share with you!

First and foremost, we have access to the latest and greatest Dunlop tire products. We are constantly staying up-to-date on new tire releases, so we can provide our customers with the best options for their riding style and needs. Whether you're looking for tires for your daily commute or for racing on the track, we've got you covered.

Another great benefit of being a Dunlop Pro Dealer is access to exclusive promotions and deals. We often have special pricing and rebates available only to our Dunlop Pro Dealer network, so you can save money on your tire purchases. And because we believe in the quality of Dunlop tires, we know that you'll get a great value for your money.

But perhaps the greatest advantage to being a Dunlop Pro Dealer is the level of expertise and knowledge that we bring to the table. We are highly trained and knowledgeable about Dunlop tires, which means that we can help you find the perfect tire for your bike and your riding style. Whether you're a new rider or a seasoned pro, we can help you make an informed decision about your tire purchase.

When you come to us as a Dunlop Pro Dealer, you can trust that we will provide you with the best possible service and products. We take pride in our work and in being a part of the Dunlop family. So if you're in need of new motorcycle tires, come visit us and experience the benefits of working with a Dunlop Pro Dealer. We look forward to serving you!

Dunlop Geomax MX34 tires are designed for off-road and motocross riders who demand the highest level of performance from their tires. These high-quality tires are made with advanced materials and technology to provide superior grip, handling, and durability in a variety of terrain conditions.

One of the key features of the MX34 tires is the new carcass material, which improves damping and absorption while maintaining performance up to 30% longer. This means that the tires can handle more wear and tear on rough terrain without affecting their performance or longevity.

Another innovative feature of the MX34 tires is Progressive Cornering Block Technology (PCBT), which improves grip and stability in corners by using a unique block design. This design allows the tire to maintain its shape and rigidity during hard cornering, providing maximum traction and control.

The MX34 tires also have an advanced mud evacuation system, which helps to clear mud and debris from the tire treads quickly and efficiently. This feature helps to maintain traction and prevent slipping on muddy terrain, making the tires suitable for a wide range of off-road riding conditions.

Overall, the MX34 tires from Dunlop are a top-of-the-line choice for off-road and motocross enthusiasts who demand the best quality and performance from their tires. With their advanced materials, innovative design, and superior handling, these tires provide excellent grip, stability, and durability in a variety of terrain conditions.

    Round 17 is this weekend in Salt Lake City Utah and we couldn't be more thrilled. This season has had its upsets as well as its surprises. In round 1 we saw Austin Forkner with Monster Energy/ Pro Circut/ Kawasaki Race Team go down hard and take him out pretty much for the rest of the season. While that was a hard pill to swallow we learned that the podium holder Eli Tomac had an injury over the weekend that took him out of the finals this weekend. Which would have been his 3rd 450 title championship win. In 2022 we saw Jason Anderson with Kawasaki take the win at Salt Lake which was an intense race. Speaking of Jason, due to his big crash in Nashville he is out of the finals in Salt Lake City. 

    All of these events together put the HRC rider Chase Sexton on his path to being crowned champion due to Tomacs untimely injury. This means our 450 champion is (unofficially) Chase Sexton. That must be a really intense feeling. You've won but you have to wait until after the race to be crowned. Honda has been on the up and up due to their powerhouse brotherly duo Jett and Hunter Lawerence. The brothers from down under have been dominating the 250 class all season long. With minimal errors from both of them they have positioned Honda to have an almost clean sweep of a season with Monster Energy Supercross 250 class.

    Aaron Plessinger, with the Red Bull KTM Factory Racing Team, while being banged up from his previous race will continue to the championship race in Salt Lake.  Currently holding the 7th position with 219 points in the season overall has had his ups and downs this season. With a best finish of 3rd this season grabbing the podium is no easy feat. You have to be persistent, relentless, and unboring. Constantly keeping your competition on your toes, being malluable for your team to advise and guide. It takes a special kind of person to do what these athletes do every day. Keeping their heads high during the lows, and serving humble pie at their highs, Aaron Plessinger has shown us he is a force to be reckened with in the Supercross World and will continue to do so through the coming seasons. 

     We are really looking forward to the race this weekend and will do our best to share as much content as possible on our social media channels. Be sure to follow us on your favorite social media channel, just search for @kenandjoes . Let us know where you are watching the races from this weekend and send us pictures of your crew you are watching with for a chance to have it reshared online! Thanks for reading.