How you could pay less for your motorbike insurance?

Posted on December 22, 2012 by andyheath

How you could pay less for your motorbike insurance?

When it comes to paying for your motorbike insurance, you probably dread that renewal letter landing on your doormat. You open it up, sigh at the cost and grudgingly sign up for another year.

However, it doesn’t have to be like this – it is often possible to find a cheaper motorbike insurance quote if you understand the basics when it comes to renew.

In this article from the motorbike insurance specialist Bikesure you’ll learn some of the basics of insurance and a few things you need to think about if you need a new policy.

Tip #1 – Your bike’s mileage

In a nutshell, the less time you spend on the road the less you will pay for your insurance. This is because you’ll be less likely to make a claim, so when declaring how many miles you expect to do each year make sure you’re as accurate as you can be. If you say you’ll do 1,500 miles a year and you actually do 5,000, it could prove an expensive mistake if you have chosen a limited mileage policy.

Tip #2 – Your bike’s security

Security is key when it comes to paying less for your insurance too. First up, make sure all the motorbike security you buy has the Thatcham or Sold Secure logo – it may be a bit more expensive but can you put a price on peace of mind? For additional protection against theft (and the elements) your insurer may offer a further discount if you invest in a Motorbike Shed or keep it in a locked garage. The more secure your bike, the less chance it will be stolen and the lower your premiums may be.

Tip #3 – Your bike

It seems unfair to punish careful riders with higher premiums, but it’s a sad fact that high-performance machines are more likely to be involved in an accident, and that can be reflected in the cost of a policy, especially for young or inexperienced riders. If you don’t want to pay through the nose for your insurance, choose a bike which is appropriate to your skills and experience.

Tip #4 – Your biking experience

When you pass your test, you’ll be keen to rip up those L plates and get out onto the open road. But before you even think about riding off into the sunset, taking an advanced riding course can help to keep your costs down. Passing this test will show you’re an experienced, and most importantly safe rider. The safer you are on the road, the less likely you’ll be involved in a crash.

Tip #5 – Your bike’s cover

Finally, the price you will pay for your insurance can also depend upon the level of cover you choose. Third Party Insurance is usually the cheapest policy, but it won’t cover any damage to your bike if you need to make a claim. Fully comprehensive is usually more expensive, but provides greater peace of mind – so weigh up your needs and your bank balance. Don’t forget that you can add on certain extras, such as breakdown cover and personal accident and injury to your cover too.

The gift of security!

Can you put a price on security?

Asgard and Bikesure – beating bike theft.

Filed under: motorbike security, motorbike storage shed, Motorbike storage Unit, motorcycle, motorcycle security, Motorcycle storage shed, Motorcycle Storage Unit, Offroad vehicles storage, Outdoor activities, Uncategorized | Tagged: , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a Comment »

Protect your vegetable garden from frost

Posted on December 3, 2012 by tarahamilton

Britain is set to face a big freeze over the next couple of days and we are told this could continue throughout December, with temperatures as low as -20c! If you are planning on keeping your vegetable garden alive and thriving, throughout the winter and cold weather but are worried your crops will be ruined by the frost, help is at hand. We have a few tips on the best ways to protect your vegetable garden from the frost.

It is important to always be aware of any changes in temperature, to give your vegetables the best chance.

Give your vegetables a chance this winter

 

Cover your vegetables

The most common way of protecting your vegetable garden is by covering them with some type of material. Any material can be used, such as old blankets and sheets. Lightweight material can be draped directly on top of the plants, however if you use a heavyweight material this will need to be supported, to prevent your vegetable from being crushed. Secure your covering with stakes, rocks or bricks. Covers should only be placed on at night and removed in the morning, to allow your plants to breathe.

Card board boxes are also a good at covering your vegetables, again don’t forget to remove these in the morning.

Mulch

Mulch is great at insulating your plants from the cold, as it helps to lock in moisture and holds in heat. A depth of 2 to 3 inches should be sufficient and you can use items such as straw, pine needles and leaves.

Water

Watering your vegetables a few days before frost is due to hit is another way of helping your vegetables see out the frost, this is because wet soil can hold more heat than dry soil. Make sure you only water the plants lightly before the temperature drops.

Water vegetables before the frost arrives

Containers and pots

Anything you have growing in a container or pot should be brought into a garden shed, garage or greenhouse if possible. If the containers are small enough, why not take them inside. If they cannot be moved, wrap the containers in bubble wrap to help keep them insulated. Burying the pot in soil is another good way of keeping your container vegetables insulated.

Cold frames

Cold frames are a transparent- roofed enclosure for growing vegetables and plants in, while protecting them from harsh weather conditions.  Cold frames provide air and soil temperature insulation, as well as shelter from the wind. Using cold frames is a good away to protect your vegetables from frost. And help them survive the winter.

If you are growing vegetables this winter, this advice and tips should help to keep your vegetables alive and thriving.

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Tips for starting an allotment

Posted on August 31, 2012 by tarahamilton

So you’re thinking about starting an allotment, don’t know where to begin? It can be a daunting task but don’t worry we’re here to help! Here’s a few quick tips on how to get started.

Tips for choosing an allotment

Your allotment should:

  • Be close to home
  • Near a water source
  • Surrounded by developed plots to reduce weed problems

You’ve been lucky enough to get a plot, where do you start?

The first thing to do, before even thinking of digging anything up, is to make a realistic plan of what you want to grow and what you want to achieve within a year or two. Make a crop rotation plan to get the best out of your plot. Done that already? Let’s get to it then!

Make a plan of what you want to achieve

Clearing the plot

This can be tiresome and hard work, but your allotment plot needs to be clear of unwanted materials, debris and weeds.

Trees and shrubs need to be dug out if possible. If not, cut them down to ground level and treat them with weed killer which will eliminate them over time.

Working your plot

Once weeds have been cleared, you can start to break up the soil. Add organic matter by digging , or while building raised beds.

Test the soil pH levels and whether or not the soil is lacking in any nutrients.

Kit out your plot with a secure weatherproof shed, to store your tools, wheelbarrow and materials and don’t forget a compost bin.

Choosing what to grow

What to grow

Check out this list of vegetables that grow well together.

Vegetables that are easy to grow include: potatoes, climbing French runner beans, onions, courgettes, cucumbers, carrots, raspberries.

Make sure that what you grow are the things you and your family like to eat. Otherwise it’ll end up going to waste, or you will find yourself giving it away.

See a full guide here>

Good luck!

Filed under: Allotment shed, allotment storage, Gardening, Outdoor activities, Uncategorized | Tagged: , , , | Leave a Comment »

Should city bike schemes be introduced to all major UK cities?

Posted on August 13, 2012 by tarahamilton

Boris bikes marked their two year anniversary this august. This cycle hire scheme from Barclays, nicknamed after the London mayor, has been a major success.  The cycle hire scheme was launched with 5,000 bikes and 315 docking stations back in 2010.  These were distributed across the city of London and in 8 different boroughs. Since the scheme began the number of cycles has increased to 8,000 and there are now 570 docking stations.The cycle hire scheme allows users to quickly hire a cycle at any of the docking stations and ride away. They can then be returned at any of the docking stations near to your destination. These stations have been generally well received, with an average monthly hire of 600,000.

Boris Bike Scheme

These bikes are perfect for short journeys and have been proven to be great for manoeuvring around a busy city. So why not roll out bike schemes, like this one, in all of the major cities in Britain. It has been announced that a similar bike scheme will be launched in Belfast, within the next 3 years. The city will invest in 300 bikes and 30 docking stations. Manchester has also been drawing up plans to become England’s number 1 cycling city, after research showed that there are more than 20,000 people in the city who want to cycle.

Manchester currently has 40 bikes available to hire at a cycle scheme at Piccadilly station, but the council will be hoping to rapidly expand on this. With the success of the scheme in London and the huge amount of publicity cycling has seen over the last few weeks with the Tour De France and Olympic successes, these cycle schemes could possibly be seen popping up in every major UK city.

Could Britain become the a cycling nation?

No one can deny the huge amount of positives that these schemes provide and if Britain’s new found love with cycling continues, Britain could become one of the biggest cycling nations.

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How do I choose the right bike?

Posted on August 12, 2012 by tarahamilton

 

When deciding to buy bikes there are a few things that need to be considered before purchasing.

One of the first things you need to think about is, what will you be using the bike for? There are three basic types of bikes to choose from: Road, mountain and the hybrid.

Road

These bikes are designed for cycling on paved streets and travelling at speed. Features of road bikes include skinny tyres and a lightweight frame. The riding position puts the cyclist bent over the handlebars, this position cuts wind resistance and because of this position a good fit is important. Choose a road bike if you will be cycling mainly as a form of transport.

Mountain

In comparison to a road bike, a mountain bike has wide tyres and a heavier frame. These bikes are designed specifically for going off-road. The mountain bike offers a more comfortable riding position, which is popular with those who find the road bike uncomfortable. If you are thinking of purchasing a mountain bike, make sure that you will be doing a lot of off-road cycling, otherwise another type of bike might be better suited.

 

Hybrid

A hybrid bike, as you have probably already guessed, is the combination of a road and a mountain bike offering the best features of both. These bikes are great for city cycling and offer comfort and durability. Hybrid bikes are good if you are planning on using your bike for only short trips.

Whatever bike you choose make sure that it’s the correct size, this is important for your own comfort and enjoyment. This can be confusing, but bike stores will be happy to help you with this. Take a look at this bike sizing chart.

 

Budget

Set yourself a budget, but remember when it comes to buying a bike, you get what you pay for. Aim to get the best bike that you can afford, without breaking the bank and leaving yourself out of pocket. The price of a bike will reflect the quality of its components, durability and features.  Be sure to shop around and see what’s out there, buying a bike is exciting, but don’t jump in and buy the first bike you see.

 

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Going Fishing? Get the New Fishing Tackle Storage Unit from Asgard.

Posted on August 9, 2012 by nazishs

If you like nothing more then sitting by a peaceful riverbank with your fishing rod and a thermos flask for hours on end, then you are probably one of the 3 million anglers in the UK.  Not only is it a relaxing way to spend your afternoon, it can be both enjoyable and challenging, as well as potentially providing a tasty dinner at the end of the day!

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Time to go fishing with the NEW Compact Fishing Storage Unit from Asgard

Whether you are amateur angler or a seasoned fisherman, keeping your collection of fishing rods, landing nets, seat boxes, holdall bags, clothing and bait boxes safe and secure can be difficult.  If you have no room in your garage, and find it isn’t practical to keep it stored inside your home, then you might be interested to know about the latest Compact Fishing Tackle Storage Unit. 

 This new storage unit from Asgard is a security approved outdoor unit ideal for storing all your tackle and fishing equipment.

Built from heavy-duty galvanised (weather proof) steel panels and integral metal floor, this Asgard Fishing Tackle Storage Unit is easily accessible via the large double door access.  Measuring at over 6 foot tall and nearly 4 foot wide, this heavy-duty outdoor storage unit is secure and spacious enough for all of your expensive fishing gear.

The New Fishing Tackle Storage Unit from Asgard

Store all your expensive fishing gear in the NEW Security approved Fishing Tackle Storage Unit from Asgard.

And what’s more, this unit is fitted with a tough 5-point locking system and reinforced doors, hinges and panels, and is the only outdoor metal fishing tackle storage unit, which has been approved by the Loss Prevention Certification Board (to level 1) in the UK.  This independent industry test ensures that this unit offers the highest security storage facility for your valuable property and equipment and can even lower your insurance premium*.Ideal for all types of anglers, from fly fishing tackle to a range of fishing gear for coarse angling – the Compact Fishing Tackle Storage Unit is an exceptionally secure and versatile storage unit.  For more information, visit our website http://www.asgardsss.co.uk. 

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Female Cyclists Making Great Britain Proud

Posted on August 2, 2012 by tarahamilton

Cycling is a great sport that has recently dominated the news headlines, thanks to Team Sky and Bradley Wiggins winning the Tour De France but let’s not forget about the great women in the sport. Women like Victoria Pendleton and Lizzie Armitstead are British female cyclists and are expected to do great things in the London 2012 Olympics, this sport isn’t just for men.

Victoria Pendleton is a British Olympic medallist, with a gold medal in the women’s individual sprint. She also has numerous medals as a world champion cyclist, with medals gained from the World Track Championships, European Track Championships and the British National Track Championships.

Lizzie Armitstead has already created a buzz at the Olympics this year, winning a silver medal in the women’s road race at her first ever Olympic Games. Before the Olympics, Lizzie competed in a number of top level road races including the British National Road Race Championships, the Commonwealth Games road race and the UCI Road World championships.

We will all be looking forward to seeing how these two ladies do throughout the Olympic games and with female cyclists Danielle King, Joanna Rowswell, Jessica Varnish, Laura Trott, Wendy Houvenaghel, Lucy Martin, Emma Pooley, Annie Last and Shanaze Reade, hopefully Team GB women’s cycling will bring home more medals for Britain!

Time for more women to start cycling

With the press full of cycling, the nation is falling in love with the sport. People are being encouraged to hop on their bikes and give it a go, but women seem to be far more reluctant. In 2009 it was found that 79% of British women never cycle and this number has only improved slightly. A survey carried out by the mind charity on 1,450 women found that 9 in 10 women were scared to take part in outdoor exercise and It was found that one of the reasons for this is that 2 out of 3 feel body conscious. British Cycling has announced a new project, in which they aim to get 80,000 women cycling, thanks £1million in funding from the national lottery. This project will hopefully help many women get over their cycling fears.  Read more here>

Skyride by Sky is currently trying to get more women cycling by organising women’s only cycling events nationwide, which has been a success. As well as this, local cycling clubs such as the Ilkley cycling club have been planning special events to attract female riders, with women only weekend rides.

With so many great events available for women to join, there are no excuses for not giving cycling a go. So go on ladies…on your bike!

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The benefits of cycling

Posted on July 29, 2012 by tarahamilton

With Britain’s first Tour De France win, cycling is everywhere! Cycling is a greatly enjoyable sport and hobby that is now getting the recognition it deserves. Why not give cycling a try? Let’s look at some of the great benefits of cycling.

 

Lose weight

One of the biggest benefits of cycling is that it is a great way to lose weight. Just from cycling a few miles a week you will begin to notice a difference and this weight loss will increase as you become fitter and more experienced.

Make friends

Cycling is a great hobby to share with others. There are plenty of local cycling clubs out there. Sign up! You’ll soon make plenty of friends and be wondering why you never tried this before.

Help the environment

By cycling more and driving less means there will be less pollution pumped into the atmosphere and by cycling more you will also be reducing your carbon footprint. Think about cycling as doing your bit for the environment.

Travel faster

If you’re commuting in a major city, travelling by bike will shave half the time off of your normal journey. A moderately fit cyclist will have no problem beating cars, buses and the underground on journey time.

 

Help others

Once you have begun cycling, it’s a great way to give back to others. There is plenty of charity cycling events available to sign up to, keep a look out for ones near you at doitforcharity.com

Save money

Think of all the money you will save if you invested in a bike and cycled everywhere. No more money spent on petrol or parking! It is estimated that leaving the car in the garage for the average commuter could save £74.14 per week (Source cycling weekly). Bikes are also very efficient, you can travel the equivalent of 2,924 miles to the gallon.

Relieve stress

Exercise is a great way to clear your mind and relieve stress. Vigorous exercise is an effective way to take your mind off problems and often once done you can see problems from a new perspective.

 

Most importantly, outdoor activities like cycling are great fun. So why not give it a go!

 

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Get the most out of your bike this summer

Posted on July 26, 2012 by tarahamilton

The weather may have been glum and summer has well and truly begun, but there are till a few weeks left ahead of us so make the most of it on your bike!

1.       Do a Sky ride

Sky has teamed up with British Cycling and Bradley Wiggins and Team sky have recently won the Tour de France, which is an amazing achievement. Sky ride is all about getting people of all abilities cycling. With city rides, local rides, women’s only and social cycling groups, there’s a Sky ride to suit everyone and with rides all the way until December, you will be able to find a date to suit you.

2.       Cycle for charity 

Cycling for charity is always a great thing to do. Put your passion for cycling into helping others, there’s nothing more satisfying than doing something for a good cause. There are plenty of charity cycling events all year round, check do it for charity for your local charity cycling events.

3.       Check events with your local council

Check with your local council for summer cycling events. There are usually a few to choose from. Council websites also have a good choice of cycling trails and routes to download, so be sure to check those out as well.

4.       Attend a cycling festival 

Cycling Festivals are a big thing! They are currently going on all over the country this summer. Take a look at the Isle of Wight cycling festival this September or the Castle Combe cycling festival this August.

5.       Give bike polo a go

Bike polo was popular back in the 1930s, but it’s set to make a big come back. Get a few of your cycling friends together and give this a go.

6.       Teach someone to cycle

Why not spare some of your time this summer to teach someone you know how to ride a bike, whether it is your friend who never learnt or a family member. Helping them to learn how to ride is a great thing to do this summer and once they have learnt you’ll have gained a new cycling buddy!

7.       Go on a cycling holiday 

Cycling holidays are great as you get to combine your passion for cycling with a trip abroad. Top cycle holiday destinations include: Burma, Morocco, Italy, Spain, South Africa and Sri Lanka. With exotic food, beautiful scenery and the sun to boot, who could resist?

8.       Cycle to the coast

If going abroad isn’t an option, why not try cycling to the coast. Remember Britain is an island, we are never too far away from beautiful coast line. Take a look at five great coastal cycle rides >

9.       Join a cycling club

Cycling clubs are great, as you’ll be able to meet people with the same passion as you. They are a great place to meet friends and there are always plenty of activities and social events taking place. Join one this summer and you will forget the meaning of the word bored!

10.   Have fun

Wherever you go and whatever you do, it’s all about having fun!! Enjoy your summer.

 

Keep your bike safe

Whatever you decide to do on your bike this summer, remember to keep it safe. Otherwise you’ll be facing a summer without your bike. When you’re at home make sure it is securely locked up. If it’s not in a shed or garage, don’t leave your bike outside, for storage to secure a bike look at Asgard bike storage units.  These metal security sheds are tough and strong, keeping your bike free from theft. Keeping your bike safe at home is just as important as when you are away. When out and about, make sure you have a heavy duty lock for your bike. Thieves are becoming smarter, so only the toughest will do.

Filed under: Bicycle Security, cycling, Outdoor activities, Uncategorized | Tagged: , , | Leave a Comment »

Keep your Bicycle Safe and Secure

Posted on January 23, 2012 by tracey42

Today we have a guest blogger - 

In the UK, a bicycle is stolen on average every minute; with less than 5% of those returned as they’re difficult for the Police to identify the owner. Current research suggests that cyclists are more likely to have their bicycles stolen than motorcyclists their motorcycle or car owners their cars these days! – Bicycle theft has doubled in the UK since the mid 1990s, probably due to the increasing popularity of expensive models and innovative ways of selling stolen goods online.

Take action against these unscrupulous thieves and protect your belongings, including your bicycle!

REDUCE THE CHANCES OF YOUR BICYCLE BEING STOLEN USING A BICYCLE LOCK.

Only use a good quality lock.  A poor quality lock at the lower end of the market can be easily sawn through or bolt cropped in seconds. It certainly pays to invest in the best quality lock you can afford (At least £30 -£40). Always lock your bicycle to something immovable, an object a bicycle cannot be lifted over and cannot be broke, cut or removed i.e. chain link fencing, grilles, gates or trees – check the object is fastened to the ground. For maximum protection use two locks of different types (a D-lock and robust chain and padlock is ideal) Use each lock to catch the wheels, frame and stand – Fill up as much of the space within the D-lock as possible with the bicycle. (See the diagram left).  The Asgard screamer lock is brilliant security for cycles with disk brakes!

AT HOME 

As many as half of all bicycles are stolen from the owner’s home – Always lock your bike at home even when it is in your garage, flat or halls of residence. Please be vigilant when returning from a ride!! Consider investing in a ground anchor and attach it securely to a wall or concrete floor. For ultimate security, why not invest in a secure steel shed with a decent locking system. Make sure you keep your bicycle out of view of prying eyes as this alone will provide an irresistible incentive to break in to your property.

Bike Locks From Asgard Secure Steel Storage

BICYCLE INSURANCE

If you own a decent bicycle then it is probably a good idea to insure it. There are several ways you can do this; Insure your bicycle on your home contents insurance – don’t forget to cover it for thefts away from home. More expensive bicycles may require specific insurance cover against theft and accidental damage.  Consider an insurance approved cycle shed these will not only secure your bike but will often get get a discount off your insurance premiums.

 Insurance approved bike storage

For more help and advice on cycle security.

Filed under: bicycle alarm, bicycle cable lock, bicycle combination lock, bicycle locks, bike cable lock, Bike Locker, Bike locks/security, Bike storage, bike theft, Outdoor activities | Tagged: , , , , | Leave a Comment »

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