by Mike Connelly
“Farkle” blends “function” and “sparkle”, a term motorcycle riders use for aftermarket accessories that add performance, comfort, or safety. Here, I cover a curated set of farkles for the S1000XR, with installation notes for each. My guiding rule is to prioritize upgrades that carry over to a replacement bike, which shapes some counterintuitive recommendations against stock BMW options. Continue reading How To: BMW S1000XR Farkles
The BMW K1300S sits taller than most sports bikes, yet its stock geometry places the handlebars too low and the foot pegs too high for the tall riders it attracts. This article covers specific aftermarket fixes: Helibar risers, Knight Design lowered foot pegs, a Verholen gear shift extender, and a custom brake lever solution. The brake lever modification, improvised after a Verholen unit fell off on the interstate, is where the real-world problem-solving gets interesting. Continue reading 2016 BMW S1000XR Review: A New Journey Ahead
Google announced Android Auto’s phone-centric mode at its 2016 I/O conference, extending the platform beyond cars with compatible head units. We describe how the change works, who benefits, and what it means for motorcyclists. The motorcycle use case now gives riders a compelling alternative to dedicated GPS units.
Continue reading How To: Using Android Auto v2.0 on a Motorcycle
Dedicated motorcycle GPS units cost roughly twice what a capable waterproof Android phone does, yet deliver a fraction of the performance. This article covers a complete motorcycle navigation build using a budget Android phone, including custom mounting, BMW power wiring, and a head-to-head comparison of navigation apps. The performance gap between the two setups is wider than the price gap. Continue reading How To: Using a Smartphone for a Better Navigation System for Motorcycles
The BMW K1300S ships from the factory with halogen headlamps. However, aftermarket LED replacements can now fit inside the original sealed enclosure without a custom bracket. This article walks through a complete LED lighting upgrade: bulb selection, resistor testing, thermal monitoring at both low and high beam, and final installation. Continue reading How To: LED Lighting on the BMW K1300S Motorcycle
The BMW K1300S, like my K1200S before it, is a heavy bike and sits taller than most sport bikes. Yet, its stock geometry places the handlebars low enough to strain the back and neck of the tall riders it tends to attract. This article covers specific aftermarket modifications to the handlebars, foot pegs, gear shift lever, and brake lever that correct those ergonomic conflicts. Continue reading How To: Modifying the BMW K1300S Motorcycle for a Tall Rider
After seven years of riding, I still suit up in full gear every time regardless of temperature, a habit my mentor Jerry instilled early on. This article covers the specific helmet, jacket, pants, boots, gloves, and eyewear I rely on, with notes on fit, visibility, and cost. The Shoei-to-Olympia tradeoffs alone illustrate how gear choices are rarely straightforward. Continue reading My Motorcycle Riding Gear
The Motorcycle Safety Foundation reports that over half of all fatal motorcycle crashes involve another vehicle, and that a motorcycle’s small size makes it easy to miss in blind spots or against busy backgrounds. By using brighter and flashing lights, wearing reflective and bright clothing, and installing a louder horn, you can increase your chances of being noticed and avoiding accidents. Continue reading Safety First: Be Seen and Heard on Your Motorcycle
I still remember the day I caught the motorcycling bug. I was exploring the back roads of horse country and neighboring farms outside of Philadelphia. There was something about the freedom and adventure of the open road that just drew me in. This article covers my experience buying and riding the K1200S as a novice, including the safety course, aftermarket modifications, and five years of touring mid-Atlantic states. Continue reading My First Motorcycle: 2008 BMW K1200S