Monday, October 26, 2009

Cool Cycle Stuff Features It's Line Of "SOS" Brand Motorcycle Sunglasses

At SOS Eyewear they know how important it is for your sunglasses to look and fit great, that's why they are constantly updating their styles and colors. More importantly they know that it is critical that they are designed to maximize eye protection! SOS Eyewear strives to offer you the best of both worlds: Attractive fashion styling, ergonomically designed for all day comfort, combined with the latest in functional frame and lens technology, to provide maximum protection from the sun's harmful rays. And, they do it all for far less than "designer name" competition. By spreading their name by word of mouth, instead of inflating their prices to cover bloated advertising budgets they've made the choice to put their money where their eyes are!

In today's overpriced performance eye wear and sunglass market, Survival Optics takes pride in their sensible pricing.

Hi-Def Optics® offers SOS Eyewear, a comprehensive collection of attractive sunglasses and high performance eye wear, created by combining the finest materials with the latest in frame and lens technologies. They are confident that they can offer all of the significant features of their competition to a broader base of consumers who have a need for effective, functional eye protection at a more affordable price.

SOS Eyewear
is a no-frills company that invests capitol into their products, as opposed to costly advertising that would inflate product costs. They choose to let satisfied SOS Sunglass customers worldwide spread their good name. Over the past 10 years They’ve grown at a strong and steady pace, keeping an eye on the constantly changing needs of their customers and meeting those needs with the best in high performance eye wear.

They offer the Hi-Def Optics Lifetime Replacement Guarantee on all SOS Sunglasses they sell, to show you
their commitment to quality.

Whether it is their decentered quality lenses that provide distortion free vision or US Ranger and Military styles that employ the use of thicker, stronger shatter proof Polycarbonate lenses, specifically engineered to meet or exceed government specifications, they believe in offering you the best eye coverage available.

Many of
their styles use frames crafted from durable lightweight Grilamid TR-90 polymers that maintain their shape and provide unparalleled comfort and flexibility. Some styles incorporate foam pieces, typically found only in Ski Goggles, that help prevent fogging, block peripheral sunlight and keep your eyes safe from airborne debris... perfect for high endurance sport activities.

Each SOS pair of sunglasses has unique features you’ll want to explore.

All SOS Eyewear provides 100% full spectrum ultraviolet protection. Present on even overcast and hazy days, invisible UV radiation is responsible for sunburns, skin cancers and for the gradual breakdown of the delicate tissues of the eye.

They offer a complete range of lens colors, from their CrystalVision™ Clear Polycarbonate Shields to the darkest of TCO Smoke™ Polarized Lenses, and, as a dermatologist recommends everyone wear sunscreen every day, They suggest you wear some sort of eye protection whenever you are outdoors.

In addition to UV protection the SOS styles that are fitted with Polycarbonate lenses also bock out invisible Infrared radiation. This is the portion of the electromagnetic spectrum that brings the sun’s heat. Infrared radiation is the leading cause of dry, scratchy eyes and SOS Polycarbonate lenses are designed to keep the eyes cool and moist. They are the perfect choice for those who wear contact lenses or who may have just undergone eye surgery.

But protection from the Invisible portion of the sun’s electromagnetic spectrum, is only part of the job of a great pair of sunglasses. The color of the lens or darkness of their tint does not have a significant effect on harmful UV radiation, but does effect how well you can see in varying light conditions.

Visible Light, also called white light, is also a major comfort concern, and it is what we experience as brightness and glare on a sunny day.

Survival Optics Sunglasses provide varying levels of protection from visible light. Whether you choose TCO Smoke™ lenses for their true color reproduction, Enhance Brown™ lenses for heightened contrast and depth perception, Yellow lenses that brighten hazy days or CrystalVision Clear lenses for protection from flying debris while Motorcycling or Biking, you can be assured you are receiving optical quality eye wear to protect your eyes. A well equipped sports enthusiast always has a range of sunglasses in their gear.

You can find cheaper sunglasses but when you compare the features and benefits we are confident you’ll choose SOS Eyewear for your sunglass needs.

CSF (Composite Shock Frames)... Exclusively from Hi-Def Optics and SOS
SOS Composite Shock Frames are used to create a low mass, low inertia frame, which will not bounce or shift during even the most extreme athletic activity.
SOS Eyewear is built to meet the toughest challenges of competition and active life-styles. Lightweight and comfortable CSF Frames, crafted from Grilamid TR-90, are extremely durable and flexible so as to withstand the rigorous demands and absorb the punishment of active sports.

SOS XLT (Xtreme Lens Technology)
XLT Lenses block glare without altering color perception. ChromaCoat Multi-Color Prismatic flash coatings reflect the sun's brightness providing enhanced anti-glare vision. SOS XLT lenses have a colorful iridescent mirrored look from the outside that are not perceptible to the wearer.

SOS Polarized MLF (Multi-Layer Filtration)
SOS High Definition PolarMax Polarized MLF lenses are created using hand poured one piece, distortion free, high tech Polycarbonate. There are no laminates to separate and nothing to degrade the polarization as with typical laminated polarizing films. SOS MLF is distributed evenly throughout the lens and not laminated to the lens as found on inferior polarized lenses.Laminated polarized lenses can delaminate due to faulty bonding, aging and exposure to heat. SOS Polarized Multi-Layer Filtration lenses block vertically-reflected light by horizontally aligning the crystalline structure of the lens. This makes them ideally suited for use around water, snow, and for driving. Avoid cheap polarized glasses, because poorly made lenses may result in eye strain or damage.

SOS XCLS (X Changeable Lens System)
Survival Optics introduces XCLS: Our exclusive X-Changeable Lens System. Multi Lens Systems, standard with XCLS styles, provide options for all lighting conditions. Eight, nine and ten base lens' curvatures, matched with sport wrap designs offer maximum coverage and protection from both direct and peripheral brightness. Some styles include a clear lens for biking, Yellow Lenses for heightened perception on hazy days and Flash Mirror Coated options for extra bright days. An excellent all purpose choice when changing light conditions are prevalent or anticipated.

DuraLite Polycarbonate Lenses
SOS's shatterproof DuraLite Polycarbonate lenses are optically correct and distortion free to provide outstanding optical performance and enhanced vision in any lighting condition.

Polycarbonate is the same material used for bullet resistant glass in autos and was initially used for safety glasses in the workplace. It is such a hard material that a special diamond blade and grinding wheel must be used to cut and polish the lenses. To form the glasses the material is melted and then force injected into stainless steel molds. The Polycarbonate material is naturally UV absorbing, so even SOS CrystalVision clear lenses afford Full Spectrum UV protection.

Polycarbonate Lenses are lightweight, durable, impact-resistant and with their patented DuraCoat process, the most scratch-resistant of the plastics. Polycarbonate eye wear is the only approved eye protection for most major police & fire departments. All Survival Optics Sunglasses are warranted by the manufacturer to exceed Shatter-Resistant Safety Standards.

All DuraLite Polycarbonate Lenses offer Full Spectrum UV Protection along with the added benefit of reducing the eye drying heat of the sun's infrared radiation. Great for those who wear contact lenses or have sensitive, dry scratchy eyes.

Venting Systems
SOS Venting Systems incorporate exhaust vents into some of their lens and frame designs to enhance air-flow and virtually eliminate fog and condensation. This design feature allows maximum ventilation while blocking extraneous peripheral light from entering your eyes.

SOS SoftTouch Nose Grips
SOS's SofTouch rubberized nose bridges provide a non-slip grip that keeps SOS Sunglasses securely in place during even extreme athletic activity. This self-adjusting material ensures a soft feel and a custom fit regardless of head shape or size.

Temples (Earstems)
The temples on SOS Sunglasses are curved to shadow the contours of your head without putting pressure on your cheeks, temples or behind your ears. Many are then clad in a non-slip material, or have SofTouch inserts to ensure they stay securely and comfortably on your head. This advanced anatomical design ensures a secure fit with exceptional all-day comfort.

Lens Tints and Coatings
Smoke or Grey Tints
The most common and popular of all of the lens colors. Distortion free TCO Smoke lenses are designed to block Full Spectrum UV Radiation while effectively blocking the sun's brightness and reducing glare. All this plus improved visual acuity without changing color perception... that's True Color Optics.

Brown and Amber/Brown Lens Tints
Especially good at blocking the scattered blue light commonly found in diffused light such as one might experience on a cloudy day. SOS Enhance Brown lenses are designed to improve contrast and heighten depth perception. A good lens for golfing and driving and an excellent all-around choice if you live in an area with changeable weather patterns.

Yellow and Yellow/Amber Tints
These lenses, long favored by Hunters, Target Shooters and "night riders", greatly enhance contrast and give a sensation of heightened visual acuity. So-called "Driving" lenses are usually amber or yellow-brown.

Sunglass Protection Hints
If you're profession has you in and out of the sun constantly, like a delivery driver or real estate agent, a sunglass cord is a must. Not only will your sunglasses always be within reach, but you will significantly reduce the chance that you may lose them or sit on them accidentally.

Don't leave sunglasses with plastic frames inside vehicles on warm days. You don't want your sunglasses to "melt" and lose their form. While they don't lose their shape, Metal sunglasses will absorb the heat when left on your car's dashboard and could burn you unexpectedly. Keep your sunglasses with you or in the glove box!

Storage
It's always best to place your sunglasses in a case when you aren't wearing them. Not only will it help in preventing them from becoming scratched, but it will also protect them from accidentally breaking.

Avoid placing your glasses without a case in your purse or pocket. Keys, coins or combs can easily scratch them and significantly reduce their effectiveness as protective eye wear.

Cleaning
Clean dust, lint, makeup and body oils from your lenses daily with a soft cloth. An excellent suggestion is the Micro Fiber cloth, which is include with many of the
SOS su
nglasses available at www.CoolCycleStuff.com.

Using a Micro Fiber Cloth will also ensure that the lenses do not become scratched. Most lens scratching is a result of using tissue and other wood based products to clean the lenses. Scratched lenses are significantly less effective at proper sun protection and it is a good idea to protect your investment and your eyes b
y following simple care and maintenance guidelines.

Monday, October 12, 2009

Winterizing Your Motorcycle

Taking the appropriate steps now will insure your motorcycle runs smoothly when spring comes after you've stored it for the winter. Proper winterizing of your bike before you store it is just as crucial as taking care of it the rest of the year. With just a few simple steps, you can winterize your motorcycle so that your first ride in the spring goes smoothly.

1) Wash and wax your motorcycle before putting it away for the winter. Don't leave any bugs, grease or grim on the paint or chromed surfaces. Apply a paint and metal protector to the finish.

2) Inflate the tires to the manufactures recommended levels to decrease the risk of flat spots forming on them. Move the bike several times a month and park it on different section of the tires each time will prevent flat spots. Don't park in direct sunlight to prevent your tires from dry rot.

3) Lubricate your clutch cables and throttle to help them stay in good working condition.

4) Fill your gas tank up and add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the gasoline from breaking down and causing damage to the fuel lines and other part of your engine.

5) Change the oil, transmission fluid and your chain case fluid to prevent corrosion on the metal surfaces of your engine.This will help keep everything lubricated properly with clean fluid.

6) It's very important to pay attention to your battery when you store it for the winter, it will gradually loses charge over time. If you leave your battery in the motorcycle you should attach a battery tender to it. The battery tender is a smart charger that will turn itself on and off as needed, to prevent overcharging. If you store your battery away from the motorcycle in a warm place such as a basement it's a good idea to occasionally check the charge on it throughout the winter and put a trickle charger on it as needed. Clean the posts on your battery if they are corroded. Then add grease to the threads of the bolts to keep them clean.

7) Store your motorcycle inside if at all possible. If it isn't possible to store it inside, buy a good fitting cover that allows for proper air flow.

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

Biketoberfest is almost here!!

If your looking for an cool trip to take on your motorcycle then put on your motorcycle gear, grab your biker luggage and head to Biketoberfest in Daytona Beach, FL. October 15 - 18 2009.

Biketobefest is an international award-winning motorcycle festival that offers participants an extended weekend get-away brimming with plenty of sun, beaches, bikes and fun!

Thousands of bikes will roar into and all around town - no two alike! Popular annual activities include motorcycle shows and rallies that showcase new, vintage and custom bikes; demonstration rides on the newest machines from top manufacturers; and on-track motorcycle action at the world-famous Daytona International Speedway.

You'll also enjoy endless-delicious food choices, live music and plenty of people-watching. With a variety of events and activities planned at venues all across the county, you're sure to find the best places to play and stay during your visit. Bookmark this site for all the official event information, calendar listings and direct links to the perfect place to stay while in the Daytona Beach area.

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Fall Motorcycle Rides In The Midwest

Wisconsin and Minnesota are the top Midwest states for those looking for scenic fall motorcycle rides.

The border of the two states features the Mississippi River, St. Croix River valleys and the many tributary rivers and streams, explaining the predominance of winding roads in this area.

Along Lake Superior on both the north and south shores it's heavily forested with rolling hills. Elevations range from about 700 ft to slightly under 2,000 ft. Also within this region in Wisconsin is a section called the Driftless Area. This beautiful and unique area of the Midwest is characterized by jagged and rugged terrain with many cliffs and other rock outcroppings.

Riding in this part of the country the temperature can get rather cool sometimes in the fall so be sure to bring along your gloves, chaps and leathers jacket.

In late September and through the middle of October around Hayward and Spooner Wisconsin, the landscape is filled with plenty more winding roads with trees in full fall color along them.

Northern Minnesota has plenty of tourist destinations that are great to take in anytime of the year, but visiting in the fall when there aren't as many people is always nice.
Tettegouche, Itasca and Soudan underground mine state parks are just a few of my favorites.

If you decide to take the tour of the Soudan underground mine be sure to take a
windbreaker into the mine as the temperature is rather cool 1/2 mile under the earth's surface.

Most state parks in Minnesota are open through the end of October and some are open all year round, but you probably want to make sure when they're open before leaving on your trip.


Where ever you decide to go just remember to have fun and enjoy the scenery.


Written by Doug Voss
CoolCycleStuff.com

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Cool Cycle Stuff, A Big Hit At Biker Rally


Cool Cycle Stuff was a big hit at the 2009 Minnesota State ABATE Rally where we featured our men's line of sleeveless shirts along with several styles of ladies shirts in sleeveless and long sleeve styles.

Our low pricing on wrap-hats was also a big hit. We were half the price of our competition at the rally.

We also featured our leather halter tops, DOT approved line of helmets, SOS sunglasses and had a very positive response to our line of inexpensive mens and ladies leather vests.

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Following the Missouri River on Motorcycle

I arrived in Bismarck Friday evening with my friends Bruce and Mark. We had ridden 475 miles that day, and arrived in town in time to check into the hotel, walk down to Buffalo Wild Wings a couple of blocks away for a good meal, have some beers and to take in a pre-season NFL football game.

After breakfast on day two of our trip, we headed south on North Dakota State Highway 1804 which runs along the east side of the Missouri River. Our destination was Mobridge South Dakota.

There's also another highway which ru
ns along the west side of the river, State Highway 1806. Both highways are called the Lewis and Clark Trail in honor of the explorers 1804-1806 expedition, which followed the Missouri River. To re-live their adventure through their journal click here .


Saturday was a great day for riding. Blue sky and temperatures in the 70s. As
we headed south along the river it looked like a painting you might see in an art gallery. Rolling hills of prairie grass and buffalo, along with fields of sunflowers and wheat lined the river banks.You could see for miles.


About 125 miles south of Bismarck we made it to Mobridge with very little gasoline to spare. After refueling we went across the street to the local Dairy Queen for some ice cream. After finishing our ice cream we put our helmets and sunglasses , got on the motorcycles and headed west across the river. About 5 miles south is the site overlooking the Missouri River and Lake Oahe. This is where Sitting Bull is buried and a
monument stands which is a tribute to Sakakawea for her part as a guide and translator in the Lewis and Clark expedition.




After spending some time there, it was now about 5:30pm on day two and daylight was burning. I put my leather jacket on and we took off again. We had 100 miles to go to be in Aberdeen S.D. by night fall, and still needed to find a hotel when we got there and have supper.



As we headed west on U.S. Highway 12, there was nothing in front of us but farm fields, prairie grass and a 20 mph wind from the south. The ground so flat you could see the next town to the east from 10 miles away. We arrived in Aberdeen about 7:15pm. Put more fuel in and search the town for a hotel and a good place to get a steak.

After supper we parked the motorcycles an
d walked to a tavern near by to have a couple of beers and chat with some of the locals. All the people we meet were friendly and enjoyable to talk with. It was getting late so we decided we better head back to the hotel. We wanted to be on the road early the next day.


Day three started by cleaning some of the bugs off my windshield that I had acquired during the trip. I knew it was useless to clean them all off my bike, since I had another 230 miles to ride. I wanted at least get my windshield clean.

After leaving Aberdeen on U.S. Highway 12 east bound again, I couldn't wait to get home so I could clean my bike, write my blog and get ready for my next adventure. I logged 980 miles on this trip. I wonder will my next trip will take me.

Thursday, August 20, 2009

Motorcycle Safety Check

I find one of the most important things you can do when going for a motorcycle ride is a pre-ride safety check of your motorcycle and personal protective equipment. Below is a copy of the checklist that I use.

The following are general recommendations and guidelines. For specific information, refer to your owner's manual or ask your dealer or a qualified mechanic.

__Make sure your headlights, taillights, turn signals, horn and brake lights are working properly.

__Check all fluid levels (fuel, oil, hydraulic, coolant) and make sure they are at the proper levels or adequate for the ride.

__Inspect for loose spokes, if applicable, wheel alignment and play, and your tires for wear and proper inflation.

__If your bike is chain driven, check it for proper tension. Rule of thumb is about 3/4 inch of free play.

__Make sure your side stand and center stand will remain in the up position while riding.

__Periodically inspect your engine area and frame for loose bolts and fasteners. Remember to tighten to manufacture specifications.

__Check your throttle for smooth travel and no sticking. Refer to your owner's manual if lubrication is required.

__Check your clutch and brake levers for smooth operation. Lubricate and adjust according to owner's manual specifications.

__Check your clutch, throttle, and brake cables (if applicable). Lubricate or replace as recommended.

__Check your front and rear brakes for proper operation, brake pads and shoes for proper thickness, and rotors and drums for smooth surfaces.

__Don't forget to check your battery for proper fluid levels and terminals for corrosion.

__Inspect eyewear lenses for cleanliness, scratches, cracks and chips. Replace immediately if in poor condition.

__Check helmet strap to make sure it stays securely fastened and clean visor if needed. If your visor has scratches, is cracked or chipped replace it immediately. If your helmet does not fasten securely replace it also.

__Check your leathers to make sure they are in good riding condition.