Sunday 21 April 2013

Review: GBRacing Engine Cover Set

When was the last time you crashed? Not too recently I hope. The worst thing about crashing is not the crash, but actually the aftermath. Physical injuries aside, the best scenario would be one where you are still able to ride your motorcycle home or to the workshop. The worst scenario? Well, one where your motorcycle starts leaking fluids.

Like this R6.


To prevent this from happening to you, take a look at the few engine case protections out there in the market. I got myself a set of GBRacing engine covers. Why GBRacing? The reason is ridiculously simple. Because the Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme (better known as the FIM) approves them. The FIM governs many motorcycle racing events such as MotoGP and the SBK. Enough said.

Well actually, I have more to say. If you're a track go-er, please, for the love of whatever higher being you pray to, install engine covers! If you crash on the track, and your engine fluids leaks onto the tarmac, trust me, nobody is going to want to be your friend.

A full set of engine covers from GBRacing costs only about SGD$320, and they come included with the bolts you would require. Installation is simple. Remove the required stock bolts from your engine case, install the GBRacing cover over it, and screw it tight with the supplied bolts.

Protection doesn't only have to be functional. It can be beautiful too.

On the stator case (left side of bike).


On the clutch case (right side of bike).


On the timing case (right side of bike).


Full set of GBRacing engine covers on the right side of the bike.


Stop procrastinating and get yourself some engine case protection. You never know when is your next date with the tarmac. Spare a thought for other road or track users behind you, and prevent more accidents. Install engine case protection!

Oh and by the way, does anyone have a clue what this monstrous looking thing is?



I know the answer, but take a guess. The clue, it's a popular touring motorcycle.

Enjoy your weekend and ride safe.

Sunday 14 April 2013

Review: HealTech GIpro X-type Gear Position Indicator

I personally feel that the Yamaha R6 needs an update soon. It is about time they included an anti-lock braking system (ABS), traction control, and a gear position indicator into the R6 package. Fortunately, there are some aftermarket components out there that we can install to improve the R6.

The HealTech GIpro X-type Gear Position Indicator is probably one of the most popular gear position indicators out there. Mainly because of its simple installation steps; no splicing of wires, just an easy plug and play device.

The connector on the GIpro attaches to your bike's speed sensor. And that is usually found underneath the rider's seat. The GIpro may be easy to install, but there is a catch. If you want to do a clean and neat job, you would need to hide the cable under your fuel tank, and lay it up to your dash where you would place the GIpro display unit.

This is how much the HKL mechanic had to remove.


If you notice the cable running down the outside of the bike, that's the GIpro cable. Just one cable, from connector to the display unit.


I'm a total dimwit when it comes to motorcycle electronics, so I leave it to the experts for installation. If you are feeling brave, you can try following the instructions included.

Installation took about 30 minutes, and programming the GIpro took another 15 minutes. And viola, aftermarket gear position indicator installed.


Do note that because the gear position indicator relies on your speed sensor to tell which gear you are in, it would just display a "-" when your motorcycle is stationary. Through my personal experience, I find that it determines the gear you are in pretty fast, almost instantly.

Here's a video of the GIpro X-type in action.


The price? Well, it's not exactly cheap at SGD$250. But trust me, it's worth it to know that you won't be finding the elusive 7th gear again.

Bonus: I saw this magnificent looking full carbon fiber bodied BMW S1000RR.




Ride safe.

Thursday 4 April 2013

Riders for Life #1

We have just published the first video in the "Riders for Life" series!

Catch the video on YouTube.


Ride safe!