Why Yes, You SHOULD Get a Motorcycle!

We’ve written about motorcycle safety and being aware of riders on the road. We’ve listed statistics about accidents and how to avoid them. This is all because we want motorcycle riders to be SAFE, but that doesn’t mean we don’t want them out on the road. We actually believe quite the opposite–we love seeing riders out there on the open road!

Here are just a few reasons why you should get that bike and why we think you’ll love riding one:

More Humans

The average motorcycle has far more human hands involved in their builds than robotic parts. They’re a bit trickier to build out in a lot of ways and require more direct human contact.

It’s Good for Your Health

A 180 lb man will burn 40 calories more per hour riding a motorcycle than driving in a car. It’s also great for your mental health. The open space and the zen of the movement and are incredibly calming and promote peace in your daily life.

You Can’t Text and Ride!

Riding requires the type of focus that people driving cars SHOULD also have, but usually don’t. You are completely present and aware of your surroundings because your life depends on it, and because it’s not possible to multitask. We consider this a good thing. Isn’t it nice to just focus on one thing?

Fuel Efficiency

Most bikes get as much per gallon as a car if not more, especially if you operate them well. Higher miles per gallon leads to less carbon-dioxide emissions, and this is a perk that can’t be ignored in your “pro” list!

Your Commute Will be Loads More Fun–and Easier

Beyond just the joy of hearing your bike rev up every morning and evening and the feel of riding, your commute may become less frustrating if you can ride in a place where lane-splitting is allowed. Seriously begin to consider this benefit as you consider buying a bike. It doesn’t have to just be for your weekends. Why not enjoy your bike every day, twice a day at least?

Parking is a Dream

Smaller vehicle and special parking for motorcycles make it so easy to find a spot.

You’ll Meet Some of the Best People

There’s a brotherhood and sisterhood you join when you buy your first motorcycle. Get ready for waves and nods all the time! Plus people will go out of their way to tell you stories and ask you about your bike. If you join a group, you can have some great trips riding and make a lot of good friends along the way. Bikers help other bikers and look out for each other.

We Have a Great Shop 

We have a great place to service, repair, maintain, and update your bike: Crumpler’s Custom Cycle. We always look out for our customers and guarantee that this can be your one-stop shop for all your motorcycle’s needs. Isn’t it nice to know there’s someone you can automatically trust to take care of your new bike? You’re not in this alone! Stop by or give us a call at (910) 483-9607.

What did we miss? We know there’s more, but these are the reasons that stood out to us. Add your own ideas in the comments–we’d love to hear from you!

We have so many items and vehicles for sale at our shop. We’re way more than a parts and service center. Check out all we have below and more!

 

Make sure to comment and share. And stay up-to-date with us on our website and at our Facebook pages for Crumpler’s Automotive and Crumpler’s Custom Cycle 

*Crumpler’s Automotive and Crumpler’s Custom Cycle are located in Stedman, NC at 7611 Clinton Road. Open from 7 am to 6 pm Monday-Friday.

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Crumpler’s Custom Cycle Open House

If you’re a true motorcycle lover, you won’t want to miss Crumpler Custom Cycle’s Open House on Saturday, April 1st!

Starting at noon we’ll have our Dyno set up and running reports, open to the public. Add to that food, live music, and giveaways, and you’ve got a recipe for the perfect spring day! Hang out with like-minded individuals and pick our experts’ brains on what will make your bike the best it can be. No cost to attend–you just have to show up and enjoy a day in Stedman with us.

Definitely plan to be there to hear live music from Open Road from 2-4 pm, as well as a Pig Pickin’ with all the fixings around lunchtime.

In addition to giveaways, we’ll also have special discounts that day, so please make plans to attend, because you won’t want to miss these deals. We look forward to seeing you all there.

Live music from Open Road from 2-4 pm at our event on Saturday, April 1st

More about Crumpler’s Custom Cycle:
Crumpler’s has been a family automotive business for as long as it’s been open. Of course, they like tradition, but they also like the freshness that new ideas bring to the table. That’s why when Richie’s son Richard “George” said he was interested in working on motorcycles, Richie decided to expand into having a custom cycle shop back in 2011. It’s not just exciting to see a family member pursue his dream, it’s a thrill to be a part of it too!

George was 19 when Crumpler’s Custom Cycle opened but it’s not like he was a newcomer to working on cars or bikes at that point in his life. His grandfather and father had worked on automobiles and heavy machinery his whole life, and he’d had plenty of hours in the shop under their tutelage to be quite adept at moving right into those footsteps. But George wanted a chance to make something new happen at the place and to blaze his own trail. He’d spent countless hours in the shop learning and working, and when he suggested a new idea for the business, his dad was happy to give him the green light.

Since that time, the shop has grown to handle all kinds of custom work plus repair and service work. “We don’t just work people’s bikes in and shuffle them out–what we do isn’t about that, “George said. “What we want to do is try to fit the bike to exactly what the owner wants.”

Because of this, the Crumplers sell wheels, do custom paint jobs, add chrome accessories and do performance work. The beauty of this line of work is the variety. George and Shop Manager Allen Bass, work on anything from classic bikes to more current models, although each presents its own challenges always. “We love piecing the puzzle together and getting a great finished product to the owner, ” George said.

Although the shop is known for variety, they still do their fair share of service and repair work. They also work on wrecked bikes and head out to shows as often as possible to see all what’s new in the industry. “What I can’t see is getting sick of this,” Richard noted. “It’s my passion, and I love making everything run the best that it can.”

For more about the Open House on April 1st or on Crumpler’s Custom Cycle check out our website at http://www.crumplersautomotive.com, check us out on Facebook, or call us at:
(910) 483-2958

Crumpler’s Automotive and Crumpler’s Custom Cycle are both located at:

7611 Clinton Rd
Stedman, NC 28391

Crumpler’s Holiday Gift Guide

 

Happy Holidays, from our Crumpler’s Automotive and Crumpler’s Custom Cycle families to yours!

It’s already that time of year, and if you’re like most people, you’ve got a person on your list that is hard to buy for. But you’re stubborn, and you’re not giving up! If he or she is a gearhead, then you’re in luck–because this month we have a holiday gift guide to share with you to help you find the perfect gifts for that special someone who likes all things fast, shiny, and loud this holiday season! We also have items that everyone needs, and can help you find the perfect one for each person on your list.

Shop owner Richie Crumpler and his son George have sorted through the shop to find the best items that they approve of to help you come up with the most unique and creative gifts for the people that you love.

#1 Cycle Care Detail Kit

This kit is for the motorcycle enthusiast in your life. Because if they can’t ride their bike a lot in the winter, then they can at least spend time with it detailing it! This comes with every formula you need and includes pads, towels, applicator and this great tote!

#2 Impact Gun

For those who like to do some of their own work. An impact gun or wrench is is a socket wrench power tool designed to deliver high torque output with minimal exertion by the user. Though it looks like a drill, it actually stores energy in a rotating mass, then delivers it suddenly to the output shaft. Wow someone with this beauty!

#3 Mini Ratchet and Bit Set

This is an outstanding set that is easy to keep close at hand to help you build or tighten anything in your house or garage! We had such a great response last year, that we brought this set back this year for the holidays. People love how easy it is to use.

#4 Jumper Cables

There’s no reason not to have jumper cables with you at all times. But take our advice and get a great pair with some quality, so that you have a product that actually works well and is SAFE. While you’re at it, get the 16 ft long variety so you have some room to work with.

#5 Forest Helmet

This lightweight helmet will protect your head, neck, and eyes while you’re working. It ventilates like a dream, has a great visor, and an adjustable sizer. Nothing but the best when you purchase Husqvarna.

#6 Plug n’ Play Stereo for Harley-Davidson

If you’re gonna ride, do it with some great tunes! This heavy-duty radio will withstand all the elements and keep you singing along down the road. We also do the installs too, to bring it back in with your bike, and we will have you good-t0-go in no time!

#7 Husqvarna Blower/Vacuum

First, you have the great quality of Husqvarna, which sets all of our inventory apart. Second, this blower also vacuums into a bag if you put it on. This will make yard clean up a breeze!

#8 Husqvarna Weed Eaters/Trimmers

Get these in either gas or electric models. The batteries last a long time and don’t lose power. And the gas variety is easy to crank and keep running.

#9 Husqvarna Chainsaws of all varieties and Masonry saws

You can choose your blade length and type and go as big and as efficient as possible. And this masonry saw will get the job done, hands down!

#10 Husqvarna Hedge Trimmers

Go big or go home! Trimming has never been so easy as it is with these great trimmers. You will absolutely love how fast and smooth they cut.

#11 Stocking Stuffers and Smaller Gifts

We’ve got you covered with small items from ratchet straps, cleaning brushes, wash mitts, motorcycle charms, jacks, safety glasses, sunglasses, goggles, motor treatments, tire cleaners, paste wax, bar-b-que sauce from the famous Bethany Historical Society, and more! You won’t run out of good options for smaller gifts as well.

 

And as always, if you want to knock some socks off, check out our vehicles and motorcycles for sale and our newest vintage item: a 1959 Ford Tractor!

 

You all mean the world to us as customers and friends. It is our sincere hope that you have the most joyous and peaceful of holiday seasons. Please let us know if we can help you in any way and call us if you need us: (910) 483-2958. We’re open Monday through Friday from 7 am to 6 pm at our shop at 7611 Clinton Road in Stedman. Follow us on Facebook at our Automotive Page and our Custom Cycle Page. Also at our website. Let us know how we can best serve you!

 

Crumpler’s Custom Cycle Motorcycle Summer Checklist

 

Things have been busy as can be for us over here, but we’re always committed to giving you the best in advice and knowledge in order to keep your vehicles, motorcycles, and small engines in top shape. This month we want to focus on your bike and give you a checklist that will help it run right through the fall so that you can enjoy your rides through the best parts of the year!

Fluids

Keeping your fluids all up the correct levels will ensure that your bike is lubricated at all times. You’ll avoid so many issues just by making sure your bike isn’t fluid deficient, which causes degradation almost immediately. Old fluid and fuel can also clog your fuel system and cause harmful acid levels which will shorten the lifespan of your transmission. You should be replacing your oil every 5,000 miles. Your transmission lubricant should be replaced every 20,000 miles, and your brake fluid levels should be checked every 5,000 miles. Additionally, your fuel valves, lines, and fittings should be checked every 5,000 miles for leaks. The primary chaincase lubricant should also be checked, but only every 10,000 miles or so.

Air Intake and Exhaust

Always check the air filter, as it is what essentially helps your bike to breathe. This always helps it to stay clear of heavy debris. If you ever see a hole, you must replace it to keep harmful particles from entering into the engine. Also, inspect your muffler to make sure no cracks or damage are depriving you of valuable horsepower! Filters should be replaced every 5,000 miles, as well as your air cleaner.

Tires and Driveline

Heat has an adverse effect on the PSI (pounds per square inch) on your tires. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines as they vary per each different product and then fill or drain your tires accordingly. FREQUENTLY check the tread, as this is one of your primary safety features. No tread=No traction. And tires can rot faster than you think! Tires should be inspected and checked every 5,000 miles at least, and the wheel spoke tightness should be checked.

While you’re at it, give the chains or belts a good look too. Make sure driveline sprockets  and pulleys don’t have any signs of hooking. If you notice any damage to these or the belts, don’t wonder about it, just replace them. Chain tension should be examined by a mechanic every 5,000 miles as well as the belts, sprockets, and pulleys.

Brakes

When you need some stop in your life, you want the brakes to be there for you. That’s another one of those moments in time when your safety is on the line. Make sure there is no damage to your brake lines BEFORE you head off on a ride. Then actuate them to check for leaks and pressure loss. Your master cylinders should be checked as well to make sure the fluids are where they need to be. Your brake pads and discs should be inspected every 5,000 miles by a mechanic.

Battery and electronics

A dead or weak battery isn’t an uncommon problem, even in the heat of summer. If your battery won’t hold a consistent charge, it’s time to get a new battery instead of wasting your time trying to get an old one to work. Bare wires and cracked shieldings are bad news–make sure to clean the battery area of debris as well. Clean connections every 5,000 miles and make sure all your electrical switches and equipment works every 5,000 miles or so.

Most of these checks are performed every time you bring in your bike to us at Crumpler’s Custom Cycle for maintenance. We have a schedule we follow for routine maintenance so that you don’t have to. We’re here to keep your bike running happy so she keeps you running happy too!

Summer is also the time for NEW RIDES!

FOR SALE: Completely Custom bike made in our shop. Not another like it!

 

FOR SALE: Yamaha white dirt bike. Street Legal. 1987. Low miles!

For Sale: 2004 Honda XR400 Dirt Bike. Has a title that will allow it to be legally driven on the road!

Yamaha for Sale! 2002 model. Great price!

1994 Jeep Wrangler ready to go–for sale! New tires.

FOR SALE: 1988 Monte Carlo SS. You will love the way this rides!

For SALE: 1995 GMC Pick-up! Great all-around truck.

Husqvarna for sale! If we don’t have what you want, we can order it!

We’re open from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm every Monday through Friday and would love to show all that we have to you. Call us at (910) 483-2958 as well for more information. And as always, watch our website and our Crumpler’s Facebook  as well as our Crumpler’s Custom Cycle  page for current updates. We love your feedback and shares. Thank you all for your support and your business. Take care, stay cool, and enjoy the open road!

 

Motorcycles and Safety

It’s finally warming up, the days are longer, and you probably notice a lot more motorcycles out on the roads. If you’re in car or truck and in a rush, it’s easy to get annoyed with having to “watch out” for a motorcycle rider. But if you consider it, the reason you’re looking out closer is because of the safety of the rider, who if hit, has a much higher chance of fatality than people in standard vehicles. That’s why it’s important to keep this in perspective and share the road. May is Motorcycle Awareness Month for that reason. Read on for some tips for motorists and motorcycle riders alike. Because in 2014 there were 4,586 motorcyclists killed in traffic crashes, accounting for 14 percent of the total highway fatalities that year. We feel strongly that it’s time for all of us to do our part to actively lower this number and save lives.

Tips for Motorists

*Allow a motorcycle rider a full lane width. There may seem as if there is enough room in a single lane, but looks can be deceiving. This gives them more room to maneuver safely.

*Pause and give yourself time to look around turns that may be obstructed and consistently scan for all roadway users. Make sure that you’re aware of all the space around your vehicle at all times.

*Motorcycles are obviously smaller than your car and their size can cause other drivers to misjudge their speed and distance, so continue to check your mirrors when you’re driving for your blind spot. 

*Always signal when you change lanes. This helps a motorcyclist know how to plan his or her next movement.

*Give more following distance than you do a car–three or four seconds is best. Sometimes riders have to make quick decisions to avoid potholes or other hazards such as railroad crossings, grooved pavement etc. Giving them more space keeps them safe.

*Don’t look at your phone while you’re driving, even if it seems there is no one around. Your biggest regret could be looking up to realize you don’t have enough reaction time to avoid a tragedy. Truly….nothing is that important.

Tips for Motorcycle Riders

*Use defensive driving techniques. Be aware of your surroundings and always expect the worst. Don’t assume other drivers will yield to you.

*Practice your braking and cornering skills. 50% of motorcycle/vehicle collisions occur in intersections. Know how much space you need to break quickly.

*Pick a motorcycle that’s a good fit. Make sure you purchase one that you can drive safely. You have to be able to pick it up if it falls over. If you can’t, you need to do some hard thinking about the functionality of your bike.

*Be considerate. Weaving in and out of traffic and riding on shoulders is rude. Don’t needlessly aggravate other drivers and cause them to react negatively, which puts everyone at risk.

*Be aware of your speaker volume. If your music is too loud, it can cocoon you in your attention to others. You need all your senses when you’re riding.

*Never ride impaired. It’s just not worth it.

*Wear a helmet and insist that your passengers do as well. In 2014, 53% of fatally injured motorcycle passengers  were not wearing a helmet as well as 41% of fatally injured riders.

If we’re all vigilant, there’s no reason why we can’t all get along out on the road! Be aware and respectful of others and have the self-discipline to pay attention to what you’re doing while you’re driving.

Remember also to keep your bike in top condition so that when you’re riding it, you’re not at risk because of mechanical or maintenance issues. If you’re in doubt, make sure to come see us at Crumpler’s Custom Cycle. It’s worth it to have the peace-of-mind and know that you’re taken care of by people who know your bike and care about your safety.

Golf Carts

We also want to remind you that we are now in the business of repairing, servicing, customizing, and getting parts for golf carts! We are excited about offering this, because we know many of you have golf carts already or plan to get one. Make sure it’s running efficiently and customized to your wants and needs!

If you’re ready for your own custom bike….

We have one ready to go! Richie has decided to sell his custom motorcycle. Though we hate to see it go, we are proud of the handiwork of our shop that went into this great bike. Call (910) 483-9607 for more details.

Be Safe and Call Us if You Need Us

We’re open from 7:00 am to 6:00 pm every Monday through Friday and would love to show all that we have to you. Call us at (910) 483-2958 as well for more information. And as always, watch our website and our Crumpler’s Facebook page for current updates. We love your feedback and shares. Thank you all for your support and your business. Now, let’s have the best spring and summer we can as we SHARE THE ROAD!