In a perfect world, every torque wrench would be tested for accuracy and consistency at regular intervals. We don’t live in a perfect world, and some torque wrenches go for decades without being tested. The first obstacle to torque wrench testing is expense. The least expensive torque wrench test...

Caring for your wrench

Torque wrenches are precision instruments and should be treated accordingly. Read the instructions for your torque wrench. If your torque wrench came in a carrying case, keep it in the case when you are not using it. Clicker torque wrenches should be stored w...

It seems that most big-name bike shops have their own niche. Some build choppers, some build baggers, some build bobbers. Some specialize in Big Twins only, other specialize in Sportsters only. And some, like Carl’s Speed Shop, specialize in building big, reliable horsepower. Only.

Two important areas of basic maintenance that I see many owners routinely neglect are their tires and brakes. Think about this for a moment. Of all the systems and parts on your bike, these two are right up there in importance with the front end and handlebars staying attached to the bike! The tw...

AeroFlow Corp. now has AeroWings and MiniWings for the K1600GT and K1600GL to improve rider and passenger wind and weather protection. While created specifically for their windscreens, they can be used with any brand. AeroWings sit above the bike’s air-intakes and allow full adjustment to provide...

A shaft drive instead of a chain is still the philosophy for most BMW models due to its reliability. Nevertheless, even this part is subject to WEAR and TEAR due to age. BMW mechanic Julie Breetzke explains the science behind the shaft drive.

The shaft and rear axle drive is constr...

The BMW GS Dry Gloves have been a staff favorite here for quite some time for their construction, features and excellent GS or touring style. The gloves are waterproof, windproof and breathable thanks to a Gore-Tex membrane laminate into the glove. This three-layer process, called X-Trafit, is th...

Stand 1 to 4

There are four MPST (“motorenprüfstand”—motor test stand) engine dynamometer stations. They serve the function of development, endurance testing and performance measurement.

Three different types of gear can be used to meet the requirements of the divers...

BMW motorcycles were the real beneficiaries of BMW’s exit from Formula One. The developers of Bavarian two-wheelers have become the owners of the most exclusive testing facility in the entire motorcycle world.

There were many long faces on the 29^th of July 2009: The day ...

Long before we were allowed to ride the first machines ourselves, the announcement from Munich was the new generation RT would have “easier” handling. Obviously stronger and therefore faster thanks to the new water-cooled boxer engine. Not necessarily better, though. It was clear to even BMW engi...