17 Engine Running In- Comprehensive Details [What, Why & How]

Proper engine running in tips.. along with logical explanations

“Ride below 60 kmph till the first 1,000 Kms”. This is what is normally told while taking delivery of a new motorcycle. It is supposed to be in interest of proper “engine running in”.

Even if you do not stick to proper engine running in tips, relax.. All Izz Well..!!

This is actually erroneous as one can rip his bike in the first gear and still not reach 60 kmph..!! The idea basically is to take it easy on the engine and try to limit the engine rpm roughly below 4,000 in each gear (which will automatically limit the top speed at around 60 kmph).

But is that the correct running in procedure?

Not so long ago, I wasn’t totally clear about “what”, “why” and “how” about engine running in. Therefore I had never posted about it on my blog (I stay away from spreading half cooked info). Over the years I have tried to acquire knowledge about this and now I feel confident that I have collected decent amount of dope on it to post it here.

Posted below is my attempt to explain “what” happens inside an engine, “why” engine running in is required and “how” it should be actually done. With the knowledge of what goes on inside an engine, the “do’s and don’ts” during the running in period becomes clear.

Disclaimer: So far I haven’t tried to implement these running in techniques. But I promise that I will surely do it on my next bike. It’s therefore up to you to decide whether to take my “advice” or not. I maintain that I am no expert to give you bike advice; I am just a Biker Next Door.

195 Best Indian Bikes for Short Guys

A list of 9 current Indian bikes/motorcycles which are easy to ride for a short guy..

A common and pertinent concern among Indians guy who are not blessed with a good height, looking for a motorcycle would be:

“Will I be able to handle the bike comfortably?” or “Will the seat height be too high for my legs?”

Being around 5 ft 4 - 5 ft 5 inches in height, I can perfectly understand this concern. Things to look out in a bike for a short rider

1. A low seat height
2. A seat which narrows/tapers towards the front
3. A manageable Kerb (with petrol + engine oil) weight of the bike

Compiled below is a list (from my own riding experience) of currently available Indian bikes/motorcycles which short guys would find comfortable to ride. Interestingly nearly all the bikes listed below have a seat height of less than 800 mm (most fall around the 790 mm mark).

3 Indonesians, Indians, Myself & MotoGP

A look at how the world's premier motorsport event has managed to influence a Biker Next Door from India..

1. The curious case of Indonesians and MotoGP

Imagine Lorenzo wearing "एक कदम आगे" on his forearm..!!

Any guess which is the most MotoGP crazy nation of the world?

Italy and Spain may be producing lots of MotoGP champs but if Google Tends is to be believed (screen shot posted below), it is Indonesians which are clearly ahead in terms of internet search related to MotoGP.

Motorcycles sales currently account for a mere 10% of the 3rd largest 2 wheeler market of the world (Indonesia), the remaining 90% comprises of step thru and automatic scooter models. In spite of being a traditionally non-motorcycle market, MotoGP seems to be one of the most popular and followed sporting event amongst Indonesians.

20 New Yamaha R15.. spy photo.. once again..

One more photo of the new Yamaha R15...

Spy photos of the new Yamaha R15 has once again appeared on the net..!! Now this is the fifth time.

Have a look at the photo. No comments from my side. You got any?

Photo source: xBhp.Com

10 Myths/Excuses for not wearing a Helmet

Collection of a few misconceptions/lame excuses often heard for not using a helmet while riding a motorcycle.. along with some solid myth busters..!!

Myth: Wearing a Helmet Causes Hair loss

One of my ex-boss once said this during a conversation, “Of course, wearing a helmet causes a lot of heat formation on the head/scalp. This cause’s hair loss”. On hearing this I felt like screaming out my lungs and say “WRONG..!!”. But obviously the boss has to be always right, even if he is sometimes blatantly wrong.

Fact: Wearing a helmet might cause a slight friction on the scalp which might lead to you a small amount of hair fall. But then even a slight amount of hair fall daily is natural and happens to everybody even without a helmet.

Hair fall among most mature/aging males is a common phenomenon. One’s genetics, testosterone and a stressful life is more to blame for it. A helmet will in fact keep your scalp clean when out in the traffic by keeping away the dust and pollution.