The tiny towns and villages in the Coconut Coast region of Bahia with
its unending lineup of beaches has always been an attraction for those
who want to live a life in peace and quiet, away from the crowds, noise
and dust of the cities. Guarajuba just 14 km away from the tourist town
of Praia do Forte and about 70 km from Salvador is one such village. You
will find many lovely apartments and houses among the real estate for
sale in Guarajuba.
Guarajuba is famous for its beautiful palm
lined beaches and beach activities like surfing. It is also a place with
plenty of greenery and it is fun to take a walk or a bike-ride along
its roads lined by trees on either side. Most real estate for sale in
Guarajuba is located in well-planned and developed condominiums which
provide a secure living environment. The place is a preferred location
for families and holiday home seekers.
Guarajuba Real Estate - An Overview
In
Guarajuba, you can get apartments from R$200,000 to R$650,000. An
average apartment in a nice condo near the beach will cost you about
R$385,000. Houses are available in a wide range from R$195,000 and the
price can go up to as much as R$2,450,000. An average house will cost
you about R$1,032,000. In addition to residential real estate,
commercial real estate like hotels may also be available.
You have
the option of buying a plot of land in a nice area to do your own
construction or just for investment. Land can cost you anywhere from
R$160,000 to R$1,000,000 depending upon the size and location of the
plot. The average price will be about R$473,000 for a piece of land in a
nicely located condominium.
Apartments In Guarajuba
You
will find quite a few apartments below R$350,000 in good locations near
the beach or in the village. These apartments which could be up to 100
sq. meters in built-up area usually have two to three bedrooms. In some
apartments one bedroom will be a suite.
The condominium generally
provides common facilities like a swimming pool, a small garden or green
area, parking facility, barbecue, a party area and sometimes facilities
for indoor and outdoor games. Almost all condominiums provide round the
clock security.
If you go for a more expensive apartment priced
above R$350,000, you will find these in gated communities or upmarket
condos very nicely located on the seaside or close to the beach. You may
also find duplex apartments in this range. The condominiums generally
provide plenty of leisure facilities.
These apartments are usually
above 75 sq. meters in built-up area and have two to four bedrooms with
suites. You can expect a large swimming pool, well designed garden,
jacuzzi, barbecue, party area, ballroom, games room, tennis courts,
volleyball courts, football fields, kids play area, children's pool,
sauna, massage center, bar and laundry area as part of the common
facilities. While every condominium may not give all these facilities,
they all provide 24 hours security.
Guarajuba Houses
Houses
in Guarajuba are located in nice quiet areas within the town and not
too far away from beautiful beaches. You can get good houses for less
than R$700,000. Even for this lower price range, you can get a nicely
built two floor house with premium construction.
You can expect
100 to 300 sq. meters of constructed area on plots of 400 to 500 sq.
meters with a budget within R$700,000. This could mean houses with up to
five bedrooms and one or more suites depending on the price. Most
houses have a pool, garden, parking facility, service area, kennel,
pantry and a party area.
Between R$700,000 and R$1,000,000, the
locations get even better and you can find some very spacious houses in
this range. The plot area should be between 500 and 1400 sq. meters and
constructed areas between 300 and 700 sq. meters.
With this kind
of space and budget, you can easily find houses with three to six
bedrooms and sometimes with as many as five suites. You will also get a
high end swimming pool, a large garden or lawn and garage to park
multiple cars. Some houses come semi-furnished.
In addition to the
previously mentioned facilities, you may get employee quarters, water
storage facility and a water source such as a well on the premises. The
condominiums usually provide several leisure facilities and
infrastructure for common activities including a clubhouse.
If you
are willing to pay above R$1,000,000 you can get a high end house in a
luxury condo by the seaside or very close to the beach. Though the
prices can be as high as R$2,500,000, the locations are the very best in
town. You will find houses with over 250 sq. meters of premium
construction on plots with areas of 1000 sq. meters or more.
In
the high end of the range, expect houses with three to five suites which
sometimes have air-conditioning installed. A large swimming pool with
premium features, a well-designed garden and multiple car parking is
almost always available. These houses usually come semi or fully
furnished. The condominiums offer all leisure facilities previously
mentioned and in addition, you can expect playgrounds, solar heating and
employee quarters. Security is usually top-notch with round the clock
CCTV surveillance.
Wednesday, July 9, 2014
Real Estate In Horto Florestal, Salvador An Overview
Horto Florestal is perhaps one of the most desirable addresses in
Salvador. Some of the best luxury condominiums are situated here. It is a
great place to live, a privileged upscale neighborhood surrounded on
all sides by lush greenery. If you are looking to move into a better
neighborhood in Salvador or want to buy a new home in the city, then
real estate in Horto Florestal should be on top of the list when you
begin your home search.
Real Estate In Horto Florestal - Overview
Though originally the neighborhood was only occupied by the rich with their large mansions, the neighborhood is currently experiencing a real estate boom and a number of upscale condos are coming up in this area. Many of the houses and buildings are located on its main streets.
Price of apartments starts from about R$160,000 for a basic one-bedroom apartment and can go up to as much as R$4,500,000 for a luxury apartment in a resort style condominium. An average apartment with three bedrooms should cost about R$1,000,000. Houses are also available in the price range between R$1,750,000 and R$2,000,000.
Apartments Below R$500,000
These apartments are part of condos conveniently located near major shopping malls and with easy access to the city center. In some apartments you may also get a sea view.
Size: The built-up area varies from 40 to 120 sq. meters. You will get one-bedroom apartments at lower prices, but most apartments in this range are two-bedroom apartments with one suite.
Facilities:
• Swimming pool (in some condos).
• Parking for one or two vehicles.
• Playground (in some condos).
You may also get some of the following features:
• Maid's quarters.
• Kitchen and bedroom cabinets.
• Sports courts.
• Concierge (round the clock).
• Ballroom.
• Sauna.
• Gym.
• Barbecue area.
Apartments From R$500,000 To R$1,000,000
These apartments are located in premium areas close to major shopping malls and close to schools, shopping facilities and with easy access to the city center. You may also get premium quality construction like two apartments per floor, great architecture, decorated ceiling, etc.
Size: Most apartments in this range have three bedrooms and two suites. The built-up area will be between 90 and 160 sq. meters.
Facilities:
• Premium swimming pool.
• Separate pool for kids (in some condos).
• Parking for two to three vehicles.
• Playground (in some condos).
Many features from the following list will also be available:
• Central water heater.
• Generator backup.
• Cable TV and internet connection.
• Party space within the apartment.
• Common party hall.
• Barbecue.
• Ballroom.
• Gym.
• Sauna.
• Assembly room.
• Visitor parking.
• Lounge.
• Maid's quarters.
• Sports courts.
• Games room.
• Kids play area.
Apartments Priced Above R$1,000,000
These are the most premium apartments in the locality and you can expect the very best locations in the area. They are usually located in areas overlooking the sea and with easy access to major shopping malls. They also come with many premium leisure facilities.
Size: You can expect built-up area from 170 to 800 sq. meters depending on the price. You will get four to five suites in most cases.
Facilities:
• Premium swimming pool.
• Separate pool for kids.
• Well-designed Garden (in some condos).
• Parking for multiple vehicles.
• Playground.
You will find some of the following features:
• Visitor parking.
• Party space.
• Maid's quarters.
• Play area for kids.
• Ballroom.
• Games room.
• Gym.
• Massage room.
• Sauna.
• Assembly room.
• Sports courts.
• Terrace with pool and garden.
• Whirlpool.
• Health club.
If you have a budget above R$4,000,000, you can look for apartments in resort style condos with the very best leisure facilities and services similar to what is provided in luxury resorts.
Houses In Horto Florestal
You will get four to five-bedroom houses in the R$1,750,000 to R$2,000,000 price range. These houses are located in prime areas close to shopping malls and with easy access to the city center. You will find both standalone houses and others that are part of condos.
Houses in this range usually come with a built-up area of over 500 sq. meters. You can expect single or multi-floor construction in plots of about 500 sq. meters or more.
The following facilities are usually available:
• Large swimming pool.
• Garage that can accommodate multiple vehicles.
• Employee quarters.
• Service area.
Real Estate In Horto Florestal - Overview
Though originally the neighborhood was only occupied by the rich with their large mansions, the neighborhood is currently experiencing a real estate boom and a number of upscale condos are coming up in this area. Many of the houses and buildings are located on its main streets.
Price of apartments starts from about R$160,000 for a basic one-bedroom apartment and can go up to as much as R$4,500,000 for a luxury apartment in a resort style condominium. An average apartment with three bedrooms should cost about R$1,000,000. Houses are also available in the price range between R$1,750,000 and R$2,000,000.
Apartments Below R$500,000
These apartments are part of condos conveniently located near major shopping malls and with easy access to the city center. In some apartments you may also get a sea view.
Size: The built-up area varies from 40 to 120 sq. meters. You will get one-bedroom apartments at lower prices, but most apartments in this range are two-bedroom apartments with one suite.
Facilities:
• Swimming pool (in some condos).
• Parking for one or two vehicles.
• Playground (in some condos).
You may also get some of the following features:
• Maid's quarters.
• Kitchen and bedroom cabinets.
• Sports courts.
• Concierge (round the clock).
• Ballroom.
• Sauna.
• Gym.
• Barbecue area.
Apartments From R$500,000 To R$1,000,000
These apartments are located in premium areas close to major shopping malls and close to schools, shopping facilities and with easy access to the city center. You may also get premium quality construction like two apartments per floor, great architecture, decorated ceiling, etc.
Size: Most apartments in this range have three bedrooms and two suites. The built-up area will be between 90 and 160 sq. meters.
Facilities:
• Premium swimming pool.
• Separate pool for kids (in some condos).
• Parking for two to three vehicles.
• Playground (in some condos).
Many features from the following list will also be available:
• Central water heater.
• Generator backup.
• Cable TV and internet connection.
• Party space within the apartment.
• Common party hall.
• Barbecue.
• Ballroom.
• Gym.
• Sauna.
• Assembly room.
• Visitor parking.
• Lounge.
• Maid's quarters.
• Sports courts.
• Games room.
• Kids play area.
Apartments Priced Above R$1,000,000
These are the most premium apartments in the locality and you can expect the very best locations in the area. They are usually located in areas overlooking the sea and with easy access to major shopping malls. They also come with many premium leisure facilities.
Size: You can expect built-up area from 170 to 800 sq. meters depending on the price. You will get four to five suites in most cases.
Facilities:
• Premium swimming pool.
• Separate pool for kids.
• Well-designed Garden (in some condos).
• Parking for multiple vehicles.
• Playground.
You will find some of the following features:
• Visitor parking.
• Party space.
• Maid's quarters.
• Play area for kids.
• Ballroom.
• Games room.
• Gym.
• Massage room.
• Sauna.
• Assembly room.
• Sports courts.
• Terrace with pool and garden.
• Whirlpool.
• Health club.
If you have a budget above R$4,000,000, you can look for apartments in resort style condos with the very best leisure facilities and services similar to what is provided in luxury resorts.
Houses In Horto Florestal
You will get four to five-bedroom houses in the R$1,750,000 to R$2,000,000 price range. These houses are located in prime areas close to shopping malls and with easy access to the city center. You will find both standalone houses and others that are part of condos.
Houses in this range usually come with a built-up area of over 500 sq. meters. You can expect single or multi-floor construction in plots of about 500 sq. meters or more.
The following facilities are usually available:
• Large swimming pool.
• Garage that can accommodate multiple vehicles.
• Employee quarters.
• Service area.
Real Estate For Sale In Ilheus - Great Opportunities For Investment
Situated about 430 km to the south of Salvador, Ilheus is a major
city of Bahia. Apart from its share of lovely beaches, it is also famous
for its rich history and cultural heritage. There are quite a few
historical buildings and tourist attractions here.
Like all other places on the Bahia coast, Ilheus thrives on tourism. Real estate for sale in Ilheus includes houses, farms and land. The city is poised for major development, which is likely to result in increased demand for real estate that could push the prices up.
Ilheus has a well-developed infrastructure and further developments are on the cards. The airport connects it with other major cities of Brazil. It is also a port city and though the majority of traffic is related to agricultural exports, it does have a passenger terminal that is frequented by cruise ships.
Ilheus is a pleasant and peaceful place to live in with an average temperature of about 24°C. There are many famous beaches just a short drive from here. If you are looking for a house for your own use or want to invest in real estate, the city presents a nice opportunity with potential for good capital appreciation.
Real Estate Overview
Ilheus offers houses from R$700,000. Prices depend on the overall package and houses priced above R$1,300,000 are also available. On an average, a house should cost about R$933,000.
You will find excellent plots of land suitable for making one or more houses from prices as low as R$150,000. The average cost of a plot will be about R$423,000.
Farms are available from about R$900,000. Being a tourism center, hotel accommodation is in demand and you may also get opportunities to buy small hotels.
Excellent Houses In Prime Locations
In Ilheus, you will find some very good houses that are located in lovely sea facing areas in and around the city. The houses are usually large with four to five bedrooms or suites and are part of gated communities.
You will get features like jacuzzi, barbecue, pantry, maid room, service area, laundry, employee quarters and storage facilities. You will almost always get a well-designed swimming pool, a large well-designed garden or lawn and space to park multiple cars. Condos will offer good round the clock security and some common recreational facilities.
Plots Of Land In Upscale Condos
In Ilheus, you will find plots that are ideal for construction of houses. The plots with areas between 1000 and 5000 sq. meters are part of well-developed and maintained condos in excellent seafront locations and offer all sorts of premium leisure facilities.
Farms
Being a city from where a lot of agricultural produce is exported, you can expect some great farms and farmhouses around Ilheus. You will find farms with land sizes of 50 hectares or more in locations that are not too far from the city. Farms often have multiple houses and facilities like irrigation systems and water storage. You may also find features like nursery and processing facilities for agricultural products.
Hotels
A hotel is a good investment given the tourism activity in Ilheus. Hotels are sometimes available for purchase. Prices vary depending upon the location, size and infrastructure. A hotel near the airport area with about 10 to 12 furnished air-conditioned rooms, a pool, bar and restaurant should cost you about R$1,000,000.
Like all other places on the Bahia coast, Ilheus thrives on tourism. Real estate for sale in Ilheus includes houses, farms and land. The city is poised for major development, which is likely to result in increased demand for real estate that could push the prices up.
Ilheus has a well-developed infrastructure and further developments are on the cards. The airport connects it with other major cities of Brazil. It is also a port city and though the majority of traffic is related to agricultural exports, it does have a passenger terminal that is frequented by cruise ships.
Ilheus is a pleasant and peaceful place to live in with an average temperature of about 24°C. There are many famous beaches just a short drive from here. If you are looking for a house for your own use or want to invest in real estate, the city presents a nice opportunity with potential for good capital appreciation.
Real Estate Overview
Ilheus offers houses from R$700,000. Prices depend on the overall package and houses priced above R$1,300,000 are also available. On an average, a house should cost about R$933,000.
You will find excellent plots of land suitable for making one or more houses from prices as low as R$150,000. The average cost of a plot will be about R$423,000.
Farms are available from about R$900,000. Being a tourism center, hotel accommodation is in demand and you may also get opportunities to buy small hotels.
Excellent Houses In Prime Locations
In Ilheus, you will find some very good houses that are located in lovely sea facing areas in and around the city. The houses are usually large with four to five bedrooms or suites and are part of gated communities.
You will get features like jacuzzi, barbecue, pantry, maid room, service area, laundry, employee quarters and storage facilities. You will almost always get a well-designed swimming pool, a large well-designed garden or lawn and space to park multiple cars. Condos will offer good round the clock security and some common recreational facilities.
Plots Of Land In Upscale Condos
In Ilheus, you will find plots that are ideal for construction of houses. The plots with areas between 1000 and 5000 sq. meters are part of well-developed and maintained condos in excellent seafront locations and offer all sorts of premium leisure facilities.
Farms
Being a city from where a lot of agricultural produce is exported, you can expect some great farms and farmhouses around Ilheus. You will find farms with land sizes of 50 hectares or more in locations that are not too far from the city. Farms often have multiple houses and facilities like irrigation systems and water storage. You may also find features like nursery and processing facilities for agricultural products.
Hotels
A hotel is a good investment given the tourism activity in Ilheus. Hotels are sometimes available for purchase. Prices vary depending upon the location, size and infrastructure. A hotel near the airport area with about 10 to 12 furnished air-conditioned rooms, a pool, bar and restaurant should cost you about R$1,000,000.
FIFA World Cup 2014 - Unprecedented Growth And Investment Opportunities In Brazil
The 2014 FIFA World Cup is almost one year away, but the contest for tickets is already under way. Of
the estimated 3.3 million tickets available, 2.3 million tickets were
requested within 24 hours when the sale opened on August 20th, 2013. The
tournament will be hosted across 12 venues spread all over
Brazil.Salvador, the capital of Bahia, will be hosting six games.
The tournament, which arouses the passions of football fans all over the world, will surely create new records in publicity and viewership as it is being held in a country that just loves its football and has produced some of the best players in the world. Brazil is a place that people view more as an experience than just a country.
For visiting football fans and tourists, the World Cup is going to treat them to an entertainment bonanza - exciting competition, calm scenic beaches, great cuisine, parties, nightlife and celebrations.
The government is taking the right steps to make this a great experience for everyone with huge investments in infrastructure. Bahia is also receiving its share of the attention as Salvador prepares to host some important matches.
World Cup 2014 - Bahia Plays Its Part
A total of 32 teams will be competing in the tournament, which starts on June 12th, 2014. The Taipava Arena Fonte Nova stadium in Salvador, Bahia will be one of the venues. There are 64 matches in all, 48 group matches, followed by 14 in the knockout stages, a third place playoff and the final.
Salvador, Bahia will host four of the group matches, one round of sixteen and one quarter-finals match. Here are the details:
Match: Group B: B1 versus B2.
Date: 3 June, 2014.
Time: 4 p.m.
Match: Group G: G1 versus G2.
Date: 16 June, 2014.
Time: 1 p.m.
Match: Group E: E1 versus E3.
Date: 20 June, 2014.
Time: 4 p.m.
Match: Group F: F2 versus F3.
Date: 25 June, 2014.
Time: 1 p.m.
Match: Round of 16: Leader of group H versus Runners up of group G.
Date: 1 July, 2014.
Time: 5 p.m.
Match: 3rd Quarter-finals.
Date: 5 July, 2014.
Time: 5 p.m.
A major tournament such as the football world cup needs a lot of infrastructure and considering that Brazil is going to host the next Olympic Games as well, the country is in the process of making huge infrastructure investments.
The draw will be held in Costa do Sauipe, a resort in the Bahia region of Brazil on December 6, 2013.
An Overview Of the Infrastructure Projects Involved
More than half of the stadiums hosting the tournament are brand new. Five others are being renovated. Some are ready and in the remaining, work is going on at a fast pace.
The investments involved are massive by any standards, with the construction or renovation of each stadium going to cost a few hundred million dollars. The National Stadium in the capital Brasilia is going to cost more than 500 million dollars.
Stadiums are not the only areas in focus. The world cup is going to see an unprecedented number of visitors and a lot of travel within Brazil as spectators move from one venue to another. Travel infrastructure, including roads, railways and airports are being added or renovated. Similarly, telecommunications infrastructure is also being modernized and enhanced.
The large number of visitors will also require other services such as hotels and food outlets. Although Brazil is not lacking in either of these areas due to the popularity of the country as a tourist destination, capacity has to be augmented and the overall quality has to be improved.
The above investments are just a small fraction of the overall investment. In short, Brazil's entire infrastructure will see a major transformation. The country will continue to reap the benefits long after the World Cup and the Olympics are over. Some estimates from people in the Ministry Of Sports put the infrastructure investments close to about 18.7 billion US dollars.
Huge Publicity, Advertising And Real Estate Opportunities
As Brazil becomes the focus of the world's attention in the next two years, according to reliable estimates, the number of visitors is going to increase by about 80%, which means a million extra visitors in the span of two years. But that is nothing compared to the number of people who are going to watch the events on television.
According to FIFA estimates, the combined viewership of the 2006 World Cup in Germany was about 26 billion. The event created a total of 71,000 hours of television broadcasting. The last World Cup in South Africa was broadcast by 245 channels in 204 countries. It is not too difficult to imagine the kind of viewership the 2014 tournament will generate. Publicity, branding and advertising opportunities for Brazil and Brazilian businesses will expand on a scale that has never been seen before.
The increased attention is already being felt in the real estate market. There is already a rush to buy properties before the prices get pushed up due to the upcoming sporting events. The money-spinning opportunities that the events will offer for real estate investors has not gone unnoticed.
Many people, who are looking for homes, apartments and commercial properties, intend to cash in on the huge number of visitors and the subsequent boost that the infrastructure investments will give to tourism. The World Cup and Olympics give an unprecedented opportunity to real estate investors to give their income streams a head-start as accommodation facilities will see demand beyond what they can possibly offer. Once the games are over, the same facilities will be kept busy due to the boost these events will give to the number of tourists visiting the country, especially the coastal regions of Bahia.
The Impact Of The World Cup On The Economy
Calculations by Ernst & Young reveal some astonishing facts and figures:
1: Production of goods and services for the World Cup will be close to USD 56 billion, which is more than four times what the country is spending on it.
2: Additional 6% increase in the GDP of the country during the period.
3: Three million additional jobs.
4: Food and beverages industry, tourism and utilities are likely to be the biggest beneficiaries.
5: The economic growth will be tremendous in the cities and states hosting the tournament
The tournament, which arouses the passions of football fans all over the world, will surely create new records in publicity and viewership as it is being held in a country that just loves its football and has produced some of the best players in the world. Brazil is a place that people view more as an experience than just a country.
For visiting football fans and tourists, the World Cup is going to treat them to an entertainment bonanza - exciting competition, calm scenic beaches, great cuisine, parties, nightlife and celebrations.
The government is taking the right steps to make this a great experience for everyone with huge investments in infrastructure. Bahia is also receiving its share of the attention as Salvador prepares to host some important matches.
World Cup 2014 - Bahia Plays Its Part
A total of 32 teams will be competing in the tournament, which starts on June 12th, 2014. The Taipava Arena Fonte Nova stadium in Salvador, Bahia will be one of the venues. There are 64 matches in all, 48 group matches, followed by 14 in the knockout stages, a third place playoff and the final.
Salvador, Bahia will host four of the group matches, one round of sixteen and one quarter-finals match. Here are the details:
Match: Group B: B1 versus B2.
Date: 3 June, 2014.
Time: 4 p.m.
Match: Group G: G1 versus G2.
Date: 16 June, 2014.
Time: 1 p.m.
Match: Group E: E1 versus E3.
Date: 20 June, 2014.
Time: 4 p.m.
Match: Group F: F2 versus F3.
Date: 25 June, 2014.
Time: 1 p.m.
Match: Round of 16: Leader of group H versus Runners up of group G.
Date: 1 July, 2014.
Time: 5 p.m.
Match: 3rd Quarter-finals.
Date: 5 July, 2014.
Time: 5 p.m.
A major tournament such as the football world cup needs a lot of infrastructure and considering that Brazil is going to host the next Olympic Games as well, the country is in the process of making huge infrastructure investments.
The draw will be held in Costa do Sauipe, a resort in the Bahia region of Brazil on December 6, 2013.
An Overview Of the Infrastructure Projects Involved
More than half of the stadiums hosting the tournament are brand new. Five others are being renovated. Some are ready and in the remaining, work is going on at a fast pace.
The investments involved are massive by any standards, with the construction or renovation of each stadium going to cost a few hundred million dollars. The National Stadium in the capital Brasilia is going to cost more than 500 million dollars.
Stadiums are not the only areas in focus. The world cup is going to see an unprecedented number of visitors and a lot of travel within Brazil as spectators move from one venue to another. Travel infrastructure, including roads, railways and airports are being added or renovated. Similarly, telecommunications infrastructure is also being modernized and enhanced.
The large number of visitors will also require other services such as hotels and food outlets. Although Brazil is not lacking in either of these areas due to the popularity of the country as a tourist destination, capacity has to be augmented and the overall quality has to be improved.
The above investments are just a small fraction of the overall investment. In short, Brazil's entire infrastructure will see a major transformation. The country will continue to reap the benefits long after the World Cup and the Olympics are over. Some estimates from people in the Ministry Of Sports put the infrastructure investments close to about 18.7 billion US dollars.
Huge Publicity, Advertising And Real Estate Opportunities
As Brazil becomes the focus of the world's attention in the next two years, according to reliable estimates, the number of visitors is going to increase by about 80%, which means a million extra visitors in the span of two years. But that is nothing compared to the number of people who are going to watch the events on television.
According to FIFA estimates, the combined viewership of the 2006 World Cup in Germany was about 26 billion. The event created a total of 71,000 hours of television broadcasting. The last World Cup in South Africa was broadcast by 245 channels in 204 countries. It is not too difficult to imagine the kind of viewership the 2014 tournament will generate. Publicity, branding and advertising opportunities for Brazil and Brazilian businesses will expand on a scale that has never been seen before.
The increased attention is already being felt in the real estate market. There is already a rush to buy properties before the prices get pushed up due to the upcoming sporting events. The money-spinning opportunities that the events will offer for real estate investors has not gone unnoticed.
Many people, who are looking for homes, apartments and commercial properties, intend to cash in on the huge number of visitors and the subsequent boost that the infrastructure investments will give to tourism. The World Cup and Olympics give an unprecedented opportunity to real estate investors to give their income streams a head-start as accommodation facilities will see demand beyond what they can possibly offer. Once the games are over, the same facilities will be kept busy due to the boost these events will give to the number of tourists visiting the country, especially the coastal regions of Bahia.
The Impact Of The World Cup On The Economy
Calculations by Ernst & Young reveal some astonishing facts and figures:
1: Production of goods and services for the World Cup will be close to USD 56 billion, which is more than four times what the country is spending on it.
2: Additional 6% increase in the GDP of the country during the period.
3: Three million additional jobs.
4: Food and beverages industry, tourism and utilities are likely to be the biggest beneficiaries.
5: The economic growth will be tremendous in the cities and states hosting the tournament
Brazil World Cup and Olympics
Despite being the fifth largest country in the world and one of
the most passionate and successful nations when it comes to football,
Brazil hasn't hosted a World Cup since 1950.Perhaps even more surprising
is the fact that no South American city has ever staged an Olympic
Games. So, awarding the 2014 FIFA World Cup to Brazil and deciding to
hold the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro were probably long
overdue, although no one doubted the size of the task ahead of the
country. Now, however, there are serious concerns that the task is
proving too great.
To some degree, Brazil has a head start because it staged the 2007 Pan American Games and built many facilities then to Olympic specifications. The result is that it has 60% of the necessary sports venues in place. But it still has major construction and renovation needs for the two events.
The World Cup is to be staged across twelve cities and the intention is to build five new stadia and undertake radical makeovers of a further seven at a cost of US$5.7 billion. Added to this is a plan to improve transport links between the venues by constructing 2,518 kilometres of new railway routes. This includes a high-speed rail link between Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo and Campinas.
Large investments are also due to be made in infrastructure, with telecommunications due to get $11.5 billion a year for the next five years. Major road routes, which are often riddled with potholes, are due an upgrade. Airport facilities, already under severe strain and with traffic due to double by 2014, are to receive a $3.3 billion investment.
With the World Cup expected to attract 500,000 tourists and tourism in Rio de Janeiro expected to be up 15% by 2016, there is a push to build more hotel accommodation. Rio is increasing its capacity to 50,000 rooms while its historic port area is due for a strategic regeneration. All host cities for the football are expanding their hotel networks. Overall, public works projects worth $52 billion are planned.
One outcome of all this development is a boost for green construction in the country. Olympic stadia have to be built to meet low carbon emission and low energy standards. Although the same is not true for World Cup facilities, developers are in general trying to achieve LEED certification, with four stadia having reached the standard and four others trying to attain it. As a result, the proportion of green building space in Brazil is expected to increase by 30% a year.
Doubts are increasingly being voiced over the slow progress, with many projects being wellbehind schedule. By the summer of 2010, construction work had only begun on six of the twelve football stadia. Questions are being asked over the choice of the host cities and there is a view that ten would be a more manageable number.
Deadlines have come and gone, with allegations of corruption and poor planning. Little progress has been made on the high-speed rail link and funding is slow to come through. With much still to do and the events getting ever closer, Brazil needs to pick up its pace if its president's promise of well-organised events isn't going to come back to haunt it.
To some degree, Brazil has a head start because it staged the 2007 Pan American Games and built many facilities then to Olympic specifications. The result is that it has 60% of the necessary sports venues in place. But it still has major construction and renovation needs for the two events.
The World Cup is to be staged across twelve cities and the intention is to build five new stadia and undertake radical makeovers of a further seven at a cost of US$5.7 billion. Added to this is a plan to improve transport links between the venues by constructing 2,518 kilometres of new railway routes. This includes a high-speed rail link between Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo and Campinas.
Large investments are also due to be made in infrastructure, with telecommunications due to get $11.5 billion a year for the next five years. Major road routes, which are often riddled with potholes, are due an upgrade. Airport facilities, already under severe strain and with traffic due to double by 2014, are to receive a $3.3 billion investment.
With the World Cup expected to attract 500,000 tourists and tourism in Rio de Janeiro expected to be up 15% by 2016, there is a push to build more hotel accommodation. Rio is increasing its capacity to 50,000 rooms while its historic port area is due for a strategic regeneration. All host cities for the football are expanding their hotel networks. Overall, public works projects worth $52 billion are planned.
One outcome of all this development is a boost for green construction in the country. Olympic stadia have to be built to meet low carbon emission and low energy standards. Although the same is not true for World Cup facilities, developers are in general trying to achieve LEED certification, with four stadia having reached the standard and four others trying to attain it. As a result, the proportion of green building space in Brazil is expected to increase by 30% a year.
Doubts are increasingly being voiced over the slow progress, with many projects being wellbehind schedule. By the summer of 2010, construction work had only begun on six of the twelve football stadia. Questions are being asked over the choice of the host cities and there is a view that ten would be a more manageable number.
Deadlines have come and gone, with allegations of corruption and poor planning. Little progress has been made on the high-speed rail link and funding is slow to come through. With much still to do and the events getting ever closer, Brazil needs to pick up its pace if its president's promise of well-organised events isn't going to come back to haunt it.
Saturday, July 5, 2014
Phuket Tour: Exploring the Pearl of the Andaman
Often dubbed as the "Pearl of the Andaman", Phuket actually is
Thailand's biggest province, big enough in fact, that a first time
visitor wouldn't think of it as being surrounded by waters in the form
of magnificent beaches. This Thai island province was not very popular
with travelers, but over time, the circumstances has changed. Nowadays,
jetsetters arrive in droves, all very eager to experience both the
exquisite natural beauty that the place offers as well as the thrill
that can be had from one of its many fashion-forward, trendy night
spots. Other equally thrilling activities that await Phuket tour takers
include deep-sea-diving, white beaches, high-end dining, and much more.
For starters, the following attractions and activities would be a worth take:
Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park
A 125 square kilometer sprawl south of town, the Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park is an amazing natural continuity of beaches, estuaries, forested valleys, mangroves, mountains, and sea cliffs. It is also home to diverse species of fauna including drongos, hornbills, gibbons, monkeys, and tapirs, to name a few. Guided treks, both along the coast or inland, are available for the benefit of visitors.
Sino-Portuguese Architecture
For the best architectural experience of Phuket, have a stroll along Dibuk, Krabi, Phang-Nga, Ranong, Ths Thalang, and Yaowarat. Thailand's oldest foreign bank, the Standard Chartered Bank, is a perfect showcase of Sino-Portuguese architecture that is so prevalent in the region. Also a good architectural fare are the THAI Office, the old post office building, and the Phra Phitak Chyn Pracha Mansion, a residential property that has been restored and now serves as an upscale restaurant and culinary school chain.
Laem Phromthep
Located at the island's southernmost point, Laem Phromthep is a good vantage point for viewing the luscious Andaman Sea. Sunsets here are a spectacular sight, attracting hordes of visitors who want to have a first hand experience of a panoramic Phuket sunset against the backdrop of Andaman currents.
Phra Phitak Chyn Pracha Mansion
Formerly an abandoned structure, this mansion was just recently restored. The mansion has been left uninhabited for decades, and as already noted above, it currently serves as a high end restaurant and culinary school chain.
Phuket Fantasea
Located east of Kamala, Phuket Fantasea is a multimillion dollar (read: US$60 million) theme park. Performances are presented with an accompaniment of Las Vegas quality light-and-sound-system. More specifically, a show combining Thai dance and herds of elephants will captivate both children and adults alike
For starters, the following attractions and activities would be a worth take:
Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park
A 125 square kilometer sprawl south of town, the Khao Lak-Lam Ru National Park is an amazing natural continuity of beaches, estuaries, forested valleys, mangroves, mountains, and sea cliffs. It is also home to diverse species of fauna including drongos, hornbills, gibbons, monkeys, and tapirs, to name a few. Guided treks, both along the coast or inland, are available for the benefit of visitors.
Sino-Portuguese Architecture
For the best architectural experience of Phuket, have a stroll along Dibuk, Krabi, Phang-Nga, Ranong, Ths Thalang, and Yaowarat. Thailand's oldest foreign bank, the Standard Chartered Bank, is a perfect showcase of Sino-Portuguese architecture that is so prevalent in the region. Also a good architectural fare are the THAI Office, the old post office building, and the Phra Phitak Chyn Pracha Mansion, a residential property that has been restored and now serves as an upscale restaurant and culinary school chain.
Laem Phromthep
Located at the island's southernmost point, Laem Phromthep is a good vantage point for viewing the luscious Andaman Sea. Sunsets here are a spectacular sight, attracting hordes of visitors who want to have a first hand experience of a panoramic Phuket sunset against the backdrop of Andaman currents.
Phra Phitak Chyn Pracha Mansion
Formerly an abandoned structure, this mansion was just recently restored. The mansion has been left uninhabited for decades, and as already noted above, it currently serves as a high end restaurant and culinary school chain.
Phuket Fantasea
Located east of Kamala, Phuket Fantasea is a multimillion dollar (read: US$60 million) theme park. Performances are presented with an accompaniment of Las Vegas quality light-and-sound-system. More specifically, a show combining Thai dance and herds of elephants will captivate both children and adults alike
Friday, July 4, 2014
Harley Davidson Shovelhead Motorcycle Engines
For those of you that would like to learn a bit more about the
Shovelhead Engine, this article will teach you the basics. For starters,
the shovelhead engine is a type of V-twin engine that was manufactured
by the Harley Davidson Motorcycle Company between 1966 and 1985. The
design for the shovel head engine was developed based on the design of
the Panhead engine. The difference is that the shovelhead engine
includes more powerful cylinders and pistons as well as a modified look.
What some of you may not know is that the shovelhead engine received its name from the unique look of the engine's rocker box covers. These covers bear a resemblance to the heads of coal shovels. That is how the name "shovel head" came into existence...
Back in the mid-sixties, the Panhead engine was initially developed to fit Sportster choppers. As time went on, the Panhead lost its attraction and went out of style due to the fact that Harley Davidson began developing bikes that required more horsepower.
Around that same time, the shovel-head engines entered the scene with newly designed top ends that were created to give you more acceleration and power. Unfortunately, many motorcycle experts now say that the weight of the new shovel head engine detracted from the speed and power of certain models in the sixties. In fact, the shovel head engine was originally designed as an engine for an outboard motor (a motor for boats), but it did not function in water or in moist air.
In the 1970's, minor changes were made to the shovel head engines that helped fix some of the problems demonstrated by the weight of the sixties shovel head model. However, most Harley specialists would say that even these revisions did not quite catch the shovelhead "up to speed." This was mainly due to that fact that Harley Davidson had to stick by government regulations that basically said choppers could not have more than a top speed of 90 miles per hour.
Another interesting tidbit of info is that if the engine came with a feature called the FLH Electra-Glide Package, it was identified as a shovel head engine for police bikes. Sometimes this feature is called the Police Option. It definitely made it easier for Police to run cars off the road.
Additionally, The FLH Electra-Glide package also enabled the engine to turn over longer while the machine was in idle. Unfortunately, it made for a heavy bike that was not easy for the average rider to maneuver or brake instantly. It's very hard to find a Harley shovelhead engine with the original FLH Electra-Glide package. It's very rare and is prized by motorcycle and chopper part collectors.
What some of you may not know is that the shovelhead engine received its name from the unique look of the engine's rocker box covers. These covers bear a resemblance to the heads of coal shovels. That is how the name "shovel head" came into existence...
Back in the mid-sixties, the Panhead engine was initially developed to fit Sportster choppers. As time went on, the Panhead lost its attraction and went out of style due to the fact that Harley Davidson began developing bikes that required more horsepower.
Around that same time, the shovel-head engines entered the scene with newly designed top ends that were created to give you more acceleration and power. Unfortunately, many motorcycle experts now say that the weight of the new shovel head engine detracted from the speed and power of certain models in the sixties. In fact, the shovel head engine was originally designed as an engine for an outboard motor (a motor for boats), but it did not function in water or in moist air.
In the 1970's, minor changes were made to the shovel head engines that helped fix some of the problems demonstrated by the weight of the sixties shovel head model. However, most Harley specialists would say that even these revisions did not quite catch the shovelhead "up to speed." This was mainly due to that fact that Harley Davidson had to stick by government regulations that basically said choppers could not have more than a top speed of 90 miles per hour.
Another interesting tidbit of info is that if the engine came with a feature called the FLH Electra-Glide Package, it was identified as a shovel head engine for police bikes. Sometimes this feature is called the Police Option. It definitely made it easier for Police to run cars off the road.
Additionally, The FLH Electra-Glide package also enabled the engine to turn over longer while the machine was in idle. Unfortunately, it made for a heavy bike that was not easy for the average rider to maneuver or brake instantly. It's very hard to find a Harley shovelhead engine with the original FLH Electra-Glide package. It's very rare and is prized by motorcycle and chopper part collectors.
Lamborgini Being Used By Italian Police
These days are very interesting. I can tell you I would like to be a
police officer in Italy. Why? Well, imagine that italian state police is
using Lamborgini Gallardo. Great, isn't it? I know that in some other
countries there are also fast cars being used by state police, for
example Porsche in Germany, etc. But I think you will agree with me that
Lamborghini Gallardo is completely something else, a different league.
So let´s have a little look at this police car.
A brand new Lambo was given to the Polizia di Stato by Automobili Lamborghini Spa as a donation. The vehicle has V10 engine producing 500 bhp and has a maximum performance of 190 mph. The car comes in police colors and of course includes a siren and on the roof there are flashing lights. This is the first time ever that Italian police is using Lamborghini.
This supercar will be using the traffic police - polizia stradale on the highway - probably Salerno - Reggio part in Southern Italy. It is equipped with technology able to transmit critical situation informations like road accidents, disasters, fires and other similar situations and also it will be able to transmit in real time images and other info and directly connect to the police database for a check of number plates. There are also a first aid equipments like defibrillator, electrocardiograms, automatic diagnosis of arterial pressure and another one for diagnostication of oxygen and carbon dioxide presence in the blood. The new car will be also used to trasport human organs and plasma in case of transplantation need.
A brand new Lambo was given to the Polizia di Stato by Automobili Lamborghini Spa as a donation. The vehicle has V10 engine producing 500 bhp and has a maximum performance of 190 mph. The car comes in police colors and of course includes a siren and on the roof there are flashing lights. This is the first time ever that Italian police is using Lamborghini.
This supercar will be using the traffic police - polizia stradale on the highway - probably Salerno - Reggio part in Southern Italy. It is equipped with technology able to transmit critical situation informations like road accidents, disasters, fires and other similar situations and also it will be able to transmit in real time images and other info and directly connect to the police database for a check of number plates. There are also a first aid equipments like defibrillator, electrocardiograms, automatic diagnosis of arterial pressure and another one for diagnostication of oxygen and carbon dioxide presence in the blood. The new car will be also used to trasport human organs and plasma in case of transplantation need.
genius is seeing what everyone else sees, and thinking what no one else has to solve a common problem
Because every damn presta valve has annoyed us at one time or another when we needed to inflate it, and it's this simple to use the dust cap to adapt a presta to a standard valve
Found on http://www.bikehacks.com/bikehacks/2014/01/the-most-amazing-presta-valve-adapter-ever.html
zip ties... good to have in your car, on your motorcycle, or bicycle
you simply never know when you might be in need of a fastener or binder
Well written article about commuters having an illogical problem with bicyclists
put in perspective of how drivers treat people biking vs people using crutches, it is quite a brilliant look into social interaction http://www.bikehacks.com/bikehacks/2014/01/commuter-psychology.html
I think a bike shop would be much cooler with customer seating like this
I can't recall where I found this photo
The Jaguar XK120 Sports Car
Jaguar XK120 - Performance, Technical Data, Features, Comparisons, History - a detailed review
from Classic to Modern
Jaguar XK100
In 1948, during the development phase of the XK Jaguar sports car engine, a small quantity of a smaller unit were built to be fitted into an alternative version of what would eventually be known as the XK120.
This 4-cylinder, double overhead cam engine, with a three bearing crankshaft, had the same bore as the "120", but the stroke was shorter and so produced a unit with a 1970 cc capacity.
This developed 105 bhp at 5000 rpm, and 111 ft/lbs of torque at 2500 rpm, and produced a top speed of 98 mph, and a 0-60 mph time of 15.7 secs.
The engine was destined to be used in the XK100 Jaguar sports car, a smaller version of the "120", the only difference between the two being the engine size. It was to be marketed in the UK only.
In the end, of all Jaguars cars, this one never reached the production phase since the cost of production would have been almost the same as that of the XK120.
Jaguar XK120
Now that the newly developed 6-cylinder, double overhead cam engine was available, all that was needed was to find an exciting outlet for it.
Using a shortened version of the chassis used in the Jaguar Mark 7 saloon, together with aluminium body panels, the XK Open Two Seater Super Sports, as it was called, was introduced at the 1948 Motor Show, and marketed as a low volume speciality car.
It was the first Jaguar sports car to be built since 1940.
The car was a sensation, with orders overwhelming the production capabilities such that the body had to be redesigned using steel rather than aluminium panels so that it could be built on a production line.
The first 239 units were hand made with wooden frames, and production did not come on stream until the convertible appeared in 1950, when it was renamed the XK120 Jaguar sports car.
Since the engine was developed during the war, it was designated by the symbol "X", meaning experimental, and the 120 referred to its top speed.
The fixed head coupe appeared in 1951, with the drop head variant two years later.
The convertible used basic hood and sticks weather protection plus detachable side screens, whilst the drop head coupe had wind up windows and a decent hood that could be stowed away.
With an aluminium cylinder head, a compression ratio of 8.1:1, and fitted with two SU carburettors, it developed 160 bhp at 5000 rpm, and produced a top speed of 120 mph, with a 0-60 mph time of 8.9 secs.
The XK120SE variant was fitted with high lift camshafts, and developed 180 bhp at 5000 rpm, with a top speed of 123 mph, and a 0-60 mph time of 8.1 secs.
Standard equipment included wire wheels, overdrive, stiffer suspension, and a dual exhaust system.
A more powerful version of the XK120SE was fitted with the cylinder head from the "C-Type", together with larger 2 inch SU carburettors, and developed 210 bhp at 5000 rpm, with a top speed of 144 mph, and a 0-60 mph time of 6.5 secs.
When 16 inch steel wheels were used, spats were added to the rear wheels. The XK120 was fitted with:
The convertible was successful on the track and in rallies.
The XK's highly successful design saw it's capacity subsequently increase to 3.8 and 4.2 litres, and continue in production until well into the 1980's.
Jaguar Sale
On the second hand market for Jaguar cars, an XK120 in good condition could command anything from $80,000 to $100,000, although a truly exceptional example could sell for as much as $150,000.
The XK120 would always be a Jaguar cars classic.
This marks the end of my Review of the Jaguar XK120 sports car.
from Classic to Modern
Jaguar XK100
In 1948, during the development phase of the XK Jaguar sports car engine, a small quantity of a smaller unit were built to be fitted into an alternative version of what would eventually be known as the XK120.
This 4-cylinder, double overhead cam engine, with a three bearing crankshaft, had the same bore as the "120", but the stroke was shorter and so produced a unit with a 1970 cc capacity.
This developed 105 bhp at 5000 rpm, and 111 ft/lbs of torque at 2500 rpm, and produced a top speed of 98 mph, and a 0-60 mph time of 15.7 secs.
The engine was destined to be used in the XK100 Jaguar sports car, a smaller version of the "120", the only difference between the two being the engine size. It was to be marketed in the UK only.
In the end, of all Jaguars cars, this one never reached the production phase since the cost of production would have been almost the same as that of the XK120.
Jaguar XK120
Now that the newly developed 6-cylinder, double overhead cam engine was available, all that was needed was to find an exciting outlet for it.
Using a shortened version of the chassis used in the Jaguar Mark 7 saloon, together with aluminium body panels, the XK Open Two Seater Super Sports, as it was called, was introduced at the 1948 Motor Show, and marketed as a low volume speciality car.
It was the first Jaguar sports car to be built since 1940.
The car was a sensation, with orders overwhelming the production capabilities such that the body had to be redesigned using steel rather than aluminium panels so that it could be built on a production line.
The first 239 units were hand made with wooden frames, and production did not come on stream until the convertible appeared in 1950, when it was renamed the XK120 Jaguar sports car.
Since the engine was developed during the war, it was designated by the symbol "X", meaning experimental, and the 120 referred to its top speed.
The fixed head coupe appeared in 1951, with the drop head variant two years later.
The convertible used basic hood and sticks weather protection plus detachable side screens, whilst the drop head coupe had wind up windows and a decent hood that could be stowed away.
With an aluminium cylinder head, a compression ratio of 8.1:1, and fitted with two SU carburettors, it developed 160 bhp at 5000 rpm, and produced a top speed of 120 mph, with a 0-60 mph time of 8.9 secs.
The XK120SE variant was fitted with high lift camshafts, and developed 180 bhp at 5000 rpm, with a top speed of 123 mph, and a 0-60 mph time of 8.1 secs.
Standard equipment included wire wheels, overdrive, stiffer suspension, and a dual exhaust system.
A more powerful version of the XK120SE was fitted with the cylinder head from the "C-Type", together with larger 2 inch SU carburettors, and developed 210 bhp at 5000 rpm, with a top speed of 144 mph, and a 0-60 mph time of 6.5 secs.
When 16 inch steel wheels were used, spats were added to the rear wheels. The XK120 was fitted with:
- Independent coil spring suspension at the front, and semi elliptic leaf springs at the rear
- Re-circulating ball steering
- An adjustable steering column
- 12 inch drum brakes on each of the four wheels
- A flat glass windscreen divided into two sections
The convertible was successful on the track and in rallies.
The XK's highly successful design saw it's capacity subsequently increase to 3.8 and 4.2 litres, and continue in production until well into the 1980's.
Jaguar Sale
On the second hand market for Jaguar cars, an XK120 in good condition could command anything from $80,000 to $100,000, although a truly exceptional example could sell for as much as $150,000.
The XK120 would always be a Jaguar cars classic.
This marks the end of my Review of the Jaguar XK120 sports car.
Alloy Wheels or Steel Wheels - Which Is the Better Option?
The choice of car parts is never easy as you are trying to achieve
optimal performance while keeping cost down. This is totally applicable
when it comes to rims. There are two main options for you to select from
- steel and alloy wheels. Find out how they compare to make the best
choice in line with your needs and requirements.
Alloy Wheels: Performance and Beauty
These rims are no longer considered a novelty. They are now standard on most cars including family sedans and sports cars. They are made from an alloy consisting of aluminium and nickel. This alloy is much lighter than steel and this gives the automobile using alloy rims much better performance. The steering is improved while the vehicle has better contact with the road. You get better control over the car and better acceleration at the same time. The driving experience is enhanced in every respect.
Another great advantage of alloy wheels is that they can be cast into numerous different designs. You can select from a huge variety of gorgeous models to add a unique touch to your automobile. You can pick from different finishes as well. You can go for polished, painted, chromed or machined rims.
These rims are perfectly resistant to water damage. They cannot rust and corrode. They may incur small marks and scratches, but their looks should not be greatly affected.
Steel Wheels: Strength and Affordability
The steel rims are heavier than their counterparts. This has a negative impact on agility and acceleration and the car becomes more challenging to steer. The low centre of gravity created by the rims may have a positive impact on the performance of the vehicle on snowy roads, however. The heavier rims enable the tyres to grip the snow better. As a result, the car feels more stable and solid on the road.
The steel wheels are stronger than their alloy counterparts. They have a low risk of cracking and bending. Just like their counterparts they can get scratched and marked, but these will most certainly not affect their generally rugged uniform look.
The steel rims are cheaper than the alloy ones. This makes them more affordable to replace. Still, there are limitations when it comes to features and to size as well. Currently, manufacturers are making only 16-inch steel models with the 17-inch ones being very rarely found.
Overall, the alloy wheels are more suitable for city driving and trips in the country in virtually all weather conditions. Their steel counterparts can offer better performance on rough snow-covered roads.
Alloy Wheels: Performance and Beauty
These rims are no longer considered a novelty. They are now standard on most cars including family sedans and sports cars. They are made from an alloy consisting of aluminium and nickel. This alloy is much lighter than steel and this gives the automobile using alloy rims much better performance. The steering is improved while the vehicle has better contact with the road. You get better control over the car and better acceleration at the same time. The driving experience is enhanced in every respect.
Another great advantage of alloy wheels is that they can be cast into numerous different designs. You can select from a huge variety of gorgeous models to add a unique touch to your automobile. You can pick from different finishes as well. You can go for polished, painted, chromed or machined rims.
These rims are perfectly resistant to water damage. They cannot rust and corrode. They may incur small marks and scratches, but their looks should not be greatly affected.
Steel Wheels: Strength and Affordability
The steel rims are heavier than their counterparts. This has a negative impact on agility and acceleration and the car becomes more challenging to steer. The low centre of gravity created by the rims may have a positive impact on the performance of the vehicle on snowy roads, however. The heavier rims enable the tyres to grip the snow better. As a result, the car feels more stable and solid on the road.
The steel wheels are stronger than their alloy counterparts. They have a low risk of cracking and bending. Just like their counterparts they can get scratched and marked, but these will most certainly not affect their generally rugged uniform look.
The steel rims are cheaper than the alloy ones. This makes them more affordable to replace. Still, there are limitations when it comes to features and to size as well. Currently, manufacturers are making only 16-inch steel models with the 17-inch ones being very rarely found.
Overall, the alloy wheels are more suitable for city driving and trips in the country in virtually all weather conditions. Their steel counterparts can offer better performance on rough snow-covered roads.
Bike Maintenance - What To Do Before Starting A Long Trip On Your Bike
A bike, like all mechanical things, needs proper maintenance. It
is important to get your bike checked up thoroughly if you don't want
any unexpected breakdowns when you are in the middle of a trip. When you
are thinking of going on a trip, it is advisable to get your bike
checked by your regular mechanic.
Even if you have got your bike serviced just few days ago, you should still get it checked before you go on a long journey. You should get important things checked in order to avoid breakdowns or any other problem along the way. When you are on a journey, the bike might breakdown suddenly in some place where there is no service station nearby. Therefore it is important to get your bike checked thoroughly before you leave. It is also recommended to keep a few important tools with you at all times. Keep a small toolbox handy with you when riding on highways.
First and foremost would be to get the battery and tires checked. Faulty batteries can lead to a lot of problems. Imagine you are in the middle of a long journey and you stop at a highway cafe to have lunch; when you come back and try turn on your motorcycle's ignition nothing happens. What a dilemma you would be in! Such a problem can be caused by a dead or weak battery. It can easily be avoided by getting your battery checked or charged up fully before you leave for your destination.
Flat tires can also cause lot of difficulties. Keep the tires well inflated. Keep checking them regularly throughout the journey. If the tires are old and worn out, they may easily get punctured along the way. So make sure the tires are in good condition before you begin your journey.
Another important thing to check before embarking on long trips is the engine oil. You should check the oil levels and also test for any oil leakages. Remember to change oil after every 2000 or so kilometers. If the motorcycle runs out of oil, the motor will run roughly. You will be able to hear loud clicking noise coming from the engine if you are going slow enough.
You should also check the brake fluid to make sure its level is not low. Many people don't pay attention to spark plugs. These are an important part of the ignition system. You should try to replace the plugs at the intervals specified by the manufacturer. All these are small things, but when you overlook them they can lead to big problems. when you maintain the bike in good condition, you can have peace of mind and enjoy your journey more fully.
Even if you have got your bike serviced just few days ago, you should still get it checked before you go on a long journey. You should get important things checked in order to avoid breakdowns or any other problem along the way. When you are on a journey, the bike might breakdown suddenly in some place where there is no service station nearby. Therefore it is important to get your bike checked thoroughly before you leave. It is also recommended to keep a few important tools with you at all times. Keep a small toolbox handy with you when riding on highways.
First and foremost would be to get the battery and tires checked. Faulty batteries can lead to a lot of problems. Imagine you are in the middle of a long journey and you stop at a highway cafe to have lunch; when you come back and try turn on your motorcycle's ignition nothing happens. What a dilemma you would be in! Such a problem can be caused by a dead or weak battery. It can easily be avoided by getting your battery checked or charged up fully before you leave for your destination.
Flat tires can also cause lot of difficulties. Keep the tires well inflated. Keep checking them regularly throughout the journey. If the tires are old and worn out, they may easily get punctured along the way. So make sure the tires are in good condition before you begin your journey.
Another important thing to check before embarking on long trips is the engine oil. You should check the oil levels and also test for any oil leakages. Remember to change oil after every 2000 or so kilometers. If the motorcycle runs out of oil, the motor will run roughly. You will be able to hear loud clicking noise coming from the engine if you are going slow enough.
You should also check the brake fluid to make sure its level is not low. Many people don't pay attention to spark plugs. These are an important part of the ignition system. You should try to replace the plugs at the intervals specified by the manufacturer. All these are small things, but when you overlook them they can lead to big problems. when you maintain the bike in good condition, you can have peace of mind and enjoy your journey more fully.
Bike fairings are important for heavy bikes.We have a wide range of fairing for Yamaha bike - Yamaha R6, R1, Thundercat and other models.
Thursday, July 3, 2014
The most expensive motorcycle sold at auction, 1910 Winchester, $580,000
Found on http://thevintagent.blogspot.com.br/2014/04/the-worlds-most-expensive-motorcycle-or.html
Winchester, the legendary name in American guns, and for a very short while (1909-11) sold motorcycles under its badge, using single-cylinder Marsh-Metz engines. The Winchester was clutchless with a flat belt direct-drive, and a total-loss battery ignition; motorcycling at its most basic, yet still selling for a very expensive $160.
Apparently around 200 Winchesters were produced under contract by the Edwin F Merry company in San Francisco,
"Unbroken" a movie of the life story of Louis Zamperini, Olympian, bombardier shot down in the Pacific, and prisoner of war in Japan
Laura Hillenbrand wrote Unbroken over the course of 7 years, and 70+ interviews, the biography of an extraordinary U.S. Army Air Force officer, Louie Zamperini, who was shot down over the Pacific, chased by sharks while floating for more than a month on a raft, and imprisoned in a hellish Japanese POW camp. Amazingly, the guy survived it all and lived to 93. Before the war, he was a track start that set a record in the 1936 Olympics
http://www.ew.com/ew/article/0,,20440835,00.html
Zamperini was a world-class distance runner by the time he graduated from Torrance High School. His athleticism won him a track scholarship to USC, and at 19 years old, a spot on the 1936 US Olympic team.
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2014/07/03/louis-zamperini-1936-olympian-world-war-ii-pow-dies-at-97/
Wednesday, July 2, 2014
another of the modeling with Mopars photo shoots from 1969/70
Found on http://driven.urbandaddy.com/2014/05/19/1969-dodge-charger/
If you're not familiar with what I'm referring to: http://justacarguy.blogspot.com/search/label/fashion%20couture especially the swimsuit photos of http://justacarguy.blogspot.com/2013/06/first-advertising-for-clothes-featuring.html
33 years later, a stolen Corvette is returned to it's owner
George Talley, a 71-year-old Detroit man was informed by AAA and the Michigan State Police that his stolen Chevrolet Corvette had been found... after 33 years in Hattiesburg, MS.
That's when General Motors Executive Vice President Mark Reuss heard the story on a local news station, and offered to have the car shipped back to Detroit so Talley could be reunited with it.
http://www.autoblog.com/2014/07/01/gm-reunites-corvette-owner-car-stolen-33-years-ago-video/
That's when General Motors Executive Vice President Mark Reuss heard the story on a local news station, and offered to have the car shipped back to Detroit so Talley could be reunited with it.
http://www.autoblog.com/2014/07/01/gm-reunites-corvette-owner-car-stolen-33-years-ago-video/
American made vehicles, not many any more with more than 75% parts and assembly in the USA
Ford's F150 took #1,
General Motors scored a win at number seven, with the Chevrolet Corvette,
Chrysler squeaked in at number ten, with the Dodge Viper.
Outside of those three vehicles, Toyota and Honda dominate the top ten.
Found on http://www.autoblog.com/2014/06/30/fewest-vehicles-ever-most-american-survey-study/
General Motors scored a win at number seven, with the Chevrolet Corvette,
Chrysler squeaked in at number ten, with the Dodge Viper.
Outside of those three vehicles, Toyota and Honda dominate the top ten.
Found on http://www.autoblog.com/2014/06/30/fewest-vehicles-ever-most-american-survey-study/
stats about the recalls from GM
According to TheDetroitBureau.com, via http://www.autoblog.com/2014/07/01/yearly-auto-recall-record-demolished-in-6-months/ the US recall total has hit 39.85-million vehicles to surpass the previous record of 33.01 million in 2004.
Perhaps more surprising, with over 26 million repairs pending, it's still quite possibly that GM could recall more vehicles by the end of the year than the 27.96-million unit total of the entire US auto industry last year.
For a full look at GM vehicles recalled: http://www.autoblog.com/2014/06/30/gm-recalling-8-million-cars-ignition-problems-official/
Perhaps more surprising, with over 26 million repairs pending, it's still quite possibly that GM could recall more vehicles by the end of the year than the 27.96-million unit total of the entire US auto industry last year.
For a full look at GM vehicles recalled: http://www.autoblog.com/2014/06/30/gm-recalling-8-million-cars-ignition-problems-official/
7,610,862 vehicles in North America being recalled for unintended ignition key rotation. 6,805,679 are in the United States.
1997-2005 Chevrolet Malibu
1998-2002 Oldsmobile Intrigue
1999-2004 Oldsmobile Alero
1999-2005 Pontiac Grand Am
2000-2005 Chevrolet Impala
2000-2005 Chevrolet Monte Carlo
2004-2008 Pontiac Grand Prix
A second group of vehicles* are being recalled for a slightly different ignition key rotation issue (more details below). 616,179 of these vehicles are in North America, with 554,328 found in the United States.
2004-2006 Cadillac SRX
2003-2014 Cadillac CTS
Additionally 20,134 North American vehicles are being recalled because "insulation on the engine block heater power cord (if equipped) may become damaged during very cold conditions." 2,990 of these vehicles are in the United States.
2011-2014 Chevrolet Cruze
2012-2014 Chevrolet Sonic
2013-2014 Chevrolet Trax
2013-2014 Buick Encore
2013-2014 Buick Verano
117 vehicles in North America "may not have had a 'Superhold' joint fastener torqued to specification at the assembly plant." 106 of these vehicles are in the US.
2014 Chevrolet Camaro
2014 Chevrolet Impala
2014 Buick Regal
2014 Cadillac XTS
12,002 vehicles in North America are being recalled because "an overload in the feed may cause the underhood fusible link to melt due to electrical overload, resulting in potential smoke or flames that could damage the electrical center cover and/or the nearby wiring harness conduit." 9,371 of the affected vehicles are in the US.
2007-2011 Chevrolet Silverado HD (with auxiliary battery)
2007-2011 GMC Sierra HD (with auxiliary battery)
Finally, 188,705 SUVs in North America are being recalled due to "a possible electrical short in the driver's door module that could disable the power door lock and window switches and, in rare cases, overheat the module." Here, 181,984 of these vehicles are in the US.
2005-2007 Buick Ranier
2005-2007 Chevrolet TrailBlazer
2005-2007 GMC Envoy
2005-2007 Isuzu Ascender
2005-2007 Saab 9-7X
2006 Chevrolet TrailBlazer EXT
2006 GMC Envoy XL
parking.. the newest cause of social unrest. We're fed up with parking tickets!
In LA, activists are now seeking to cap non-public safety related parking fines at $23.
Activists in Keene, New Hampshire, are fighting for more than just a decreased financial penalty; they want parking fines eliminated altogether. Although there is free parking in Keene after 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, and all day on Sunday, libertarian activists involved in the Free Keene campaign are not satisfied. To demonstrate their discontent, they are feeding expired meters before tickets can be issued, and have allegedly prevented the city from issuing more than 4,000 parking tickets since 2009.
In other areas, like Detroit, the city actually spends more money issuing parking fines than it does from collecting them. And almost half of the Motor City’s 3,400 parking meters don't work on any given day, further complicating parking governance.
http://theweek.com/article/index/263406/do-americans-have-the-right-to-free-parking via http://www.autoblog.com/2014/07/02/free-parking-right-read-this/
Activists in Keene, New Hampshire, are fighting for more than just a decreased financial penalty; they want parking fines eliminated altogether. Although there is free parking in Keene after 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday, and all day on Sunday, libertarian activists involved in the Free Keene campaign are not satisfied. To demonstrate their discontent, they are feeding expired meters before tickets can be issued, and have allegedly prevented the city from issuing more than 4,000 parking tickets since 2009.
In other areas, like Detroit, the city actually spends more money issuing parking fines than it does from collecting them. And almost half of the Motor City’s 3,400 parking meters don't work on any given day, further complicating parking governance.
http://theweek.com/article/index/263406/do-americans-have-the-right-to-free-parking via http://www.autoblog.com/2014/07/02/free-parking-right-read-this/
what does women's softball games no one wants to watch have to do with the NHRA drag race qualifying?
ESPN has to air and equal amount of womens sports no one wants to watch in order to get the contract to air NCAA football that is in high demand, and broadcasts the softball games right before NHRA qualifying, and because the softball games are live, and ESPN won't cut away from a live event, the NHRA coverage is often delayed or cut off until the softball games are over.
A meritocracy is not what gets your sport broadcast. Title IX legalities do.
Autoweek magazine, June 23rd issue, page 50, 2nd paragraph
A meritocracy is not what gets your sport broadcast. Title IX legalities do.
Autoweek magazine, June 23rd issue, page 50, 2nd paragraph
Roush is building the Google driverless cars
Google contracted with Roush to build prototypes of fully autonomous vehicles, in which two people sit abreast in the tiny pod-shaped car, which has a flexible windshield for safety and is topped by a spinning cone that helps navigation. The electric vehicles, unveiled in May, are limited to a maximum speed of 25 miles per hour and do away with several decades-long constants in motoring: the steering wheel, brake pedal and accelerator pedal.
http://www.insurancejournal.com/news/national/2014/07/01/333213.htm
But here is the strangest thing... these prototypes are being built without crumple zones, because Google is not half as smart as they think they are, and figures it has designed a car that will avoid collisions.
Those of us who drive cars, and not live in a bubble, realize it's not you who causes or avoids every possible collision on the roads, it's the rest of the vehicles in your area, roughly 50 yards in every direction around you, more, the faster they or you are moving
http://www.insurancejournal.com/news/national/2014/07/01/333213.htm
But here is the strangest thing... these prototypes are being built without crumple zones, because Google is not half as smart as they think they are, and figures it has designed a car that will avoid collisions.
Those of us who drive cars, and not live in a bubble, realize it's not you who causes or avoids every possible collision on the roads, it's the rest of the vehicles in your area, roughly 50 yards in every direction around you, more, the faster they or you are moving
it's uncommon to see Forest Service, Forest Ranger, and Coast Guard vehicles
and just showing such uncommon vehicles is reason enough to show them for me. That the last is a fire truck is pretty cool
Found on http://truquetructruk.tumblr.com/
Tuesday, July 1, 2014
license plate genius
Found on http://stunningpicture.tumblr.com/
Found on George Takei's facebook page https://www.facebook.com/georgehtakei?ref=stream
the National Coach Museum of Lisbon Portugal
Above image found on http://bedsihavesleptin.com/tag/the-national-coach-museum/
_-_Mar_2010.jpg)
above image from Wikimedia
Above image from http://www.culturaltravelguide.com/2012/06
and you can do the virtual tour as well at http://en.museudoscoches.pt/
This museum is one of a kind. It houses the greatest world collection of royal coaches, dating from 17th Century to late 19th Century. The building itself is a “must see”, since it is in the old Royal Riding Arena of Belem Palace.
The most thorough and impressive gallery though, is from Cinla's website, Love is Speed: http://loveisspeed.blogspot.com/2012/08/the-national-coach-museum-is-located-in.html
interesting innovation in lawn mowers... taking up less space in the shed or garage
Found in Mens Journal magazine
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