Magazine plans test for Royal Enfield

Overland Journal magazine will test a new Royal Enfield G5 motorcycle. The magazine's latest "project bike" will likely face its first big test circumnavigating the Grand Canyon in June.

Royal Enfield motorcycles have long been used for adventure expeditions in the Himalayan Mountains and elsewhere in India. In the United States, however, they sometimes do little more than carry their riders to breakfast on Sunday mornings.

Overland Journal plans a tougher time than that for the G5, which features Royal Enfield's brand new unit constructed motor and fuel injection. The publication specializes in "vehicle dependent" expeditions all over the planet. It is based in Arizona, however, and, for starters, that is where the Royal Enfield will roam.

Safety tip for motorcyclists

A panic stop is one of the scariest things a motorcyclist has to do. It's even more frightening when as you grab the brake your engine begins to rev out of control. Here's a tip that can save you this experience.

If this has happened to you, you probably realize that the motor revved up suddenly because, when you pulled on the front brake lever, the movement of your hand back and down rolled the throttle open. You instinctively pulled in the clutch with your other hand, so the motor was free to rev madly.

The trick is to find some way to prevent this from happening. It has to be something that operates automatically. It can't be something you have to think about when you need to stop in a hurry.

And here it is: ride with your four fingers resting lightly atop the brake lever but not far enough out there to operate the lever. Your thumb is wrapped around the throttle: it has to be, because it's your only grip on it.

When it comes time to stop, you will naturally roll your hand forward. Your thumb closes the throttle while your fingers reach for the lever and then pull it back against the resistance of your thumb. Simple!

Why doesn't this happen on its own? If you pay no attention to where your fingers are when you ride, you will have to open your hand completely and grab for the lever in an emergency. Your thumb naturally opens too and, when you close your fist, your thumb may not be in position to anchor your fingers.

You will have to pull down and back to pull the brake lever and your thumb and palm will roll on more throttle when you do.

Technical people prefer simple motorcycles

Why is it that people in highly technical fields like relatively unsophisticated Royal Enfield motorcycles?

Peter E. Raymond of Brooklyn, N.Y., wanted a new Royal Enfield Bullet, but decided not to wait for the newest model.

"I bought the old engine because I like the sound and tweakability." That is just the way he is.

Buy you ought to read his job description!

Spy shot: New Royal Enfields head to U.S.

Spy shot! Brand new 2009 Royal Enfield C-5 motorcycles being crated for delivery to the United States at the factory in Chennai, India. For full details on Royal Enfield's new retro-styled motorcycle click here.