Street Content | Fastback Moto

Winter Riding: What to Know, Where to Go

by Fastback Moto | Oct 23, 2025 | General Content, Highlights, Off-Road Content, Street Content

Winter Riding: Your Guide to Keeping the Adventure Alive with Fastback Moto

When the temperatures drop, the itch to ride doesn’t just vanish. For some of you, winter means parking the bike and dreaming of spring. But for the rest of us? It’s a chance to embrace the crisp air, conquer new terrain, and keep the adrenaline pumping. Whether you’re a die-hard road warrior, a snow bike thrill-seeker, or just planning for next season, our full-service motorcycle shop in Utah has you covered.

Here’s our ultimate guide to making winter your favorite riding season, packed with tips, destinations, and ways we can help you keep rolling.

A man on a black snowmobile soars through the air against a cloudy blue sky, captured mid-jump with snow-covered mountains and pine trees in the background. He wears a black helmet and winter gear, leaning forward as the snowmobile tilts slightly upward.

Why Winter Riding Rocks

Winter isn’t just about bundling up—it’s about discovering new adventures and getting ahead on bike prep. At Fastback Moto, we see riders transform the cold months into prime time for epic rides, maintenance, and upgrades.

From the stunning trails of southern Utah to the thrill of snow biking, there’s no reason to let your bike hibernate. Let’s dive into where to ride, how to prep, and why stopping by our shop is the best move you’ll make this season.

Where to Ride: Southern Utah’s Winter Wonderland

When snow and ice blanket northern Utah’s roads, southern Utah becomes a rider’s paradise. With mild temperatures and jaw-dropping scenery, it’s like spring riding all winter long. Whether you’re into street cruises or off-road adventures, here are some must-ride spots:

Zion Canyon Loop: This street ride offers cool temps, breathtaking red rock views, and fewer crowds in winter. Perfect for soaking in the scenery without the summer rush.
Scenic Byway 12 (Boulder to Escalante): A street rider’s dream with sweeping curves and vibrant landscapes. It’s a ride that feels like a journey through a postcard.
Beaver Dam/Mesquite: For off-road enthusiasts, this area delivers endless trails and open desert to explore. It’s a playground for dirt bikes and adventure riders.

Pro Tip: Elevation matters! Above 6,000 feet, temperatures can drop fast, so pack layers and check the forecast. Need help planning your route? Check out Butler Maps for expertly crafted motorcycle maps or create your own custom route to make every ride unforgettable.

Snow Bikes: Turn Your Dirt Bike into a Winter Beast

If you haven’t tried a snow bike yet, you’re in for a treat. By swapping your dirt bike’s wheels for a front ski and rear track, Utah’s backcountry becomes your playground, from snowy forests to open slopes. At Fastback Moto, we can help you with:

Snow Bike Conversions: We’ll guide you through choosing the right kit and handle the installation for peak performance.
Preseason Inspections: Ensure your bike is ready for the snow with a thorough check-up.
Storage Prep: We’ll prep your standard dirt bike setup for storage, so it’s ready when the snow melts.

Curious about snow biking? Swing by our shop, and we’ll walk you through the process, from kit options to tuning tips for flawless performance in freezing temps. It’s the ultimate way to keep riding while others are stuck shoveling snow.

Winter Utility: Make Chores Fun with ATV/UTV Plows

Winter riding isn’t always about adventure—sometimes it’s about getting stuff done. If you own an ATV or UTV, a snow plow attachment can turn clearing driveways or trails into a blast. At Fastback Moto, we’ve got everything you need to make your machine winter-ready:

Plow Kit Installation: We’ll mount and adjust your plow for maximum efficiency.
Winch & Electrical Checks: Ensure your systems are ready for heavy-duty work.
Winterization: We’ll prep your ATV or UTV for reliable cold starts, so you’re never stuck.

Looking to upgrade your setup? Now’s the perfect time to add accessories or fine-tune your machine before the next big storm hits. Stop by, and let’s get your rig ready to tackle winter chores with ease.

For the Die-Hards: Road Riding Through Winter

For those of you who refuse to let snow or cold stop you, we salute your grit! Winter road riding—whether commuting or cruising for fun—takes serious prep. Here are some battle-tested tips from the Fastback Moto crew:

Gear Up Smart: Invest in heated gear (trust us, it’s a game-changer). Quality windproof liners and waterproof layers are worth their weight in gold.
Tire TLC: Cold temps lower tire pressure, so check it before every ride. Consider winter compound tires for better grip if you’re a regular winter rider.
Stay Visible: With low sun angles and early sunsets, visibility is critical. Add reflective gear and LED lighting to stand out.
Mind the Road: Salt and sand help cars but can mess with your traction. Take corners slow and wash your bike regularly to prevent corrosion.

Not sure if your bike’s ready for winter’s challenges? Bring it to Fastback Moto for a full winter inspection. We’ll check fluids, battery, tires, and electrical systems to keep you safe and rolling all season long.

Fair-Weather Riders: Winter Storage Done Right

If winter riding isn’t your thing, no worries—Fastback Moto has your back. Our climate-controlled storage keeps your bike safe from snow, rain, and corrosion. We go the extra mile by starting your bike every couple of weeks to keep the battery charged and fluids circulating. Why? Because regular startups are the secret to a healthy motorcycle. With our storage service, your bike will be primed and ready when spring arrives, giving you peace of mind and a head start on the season.

Why Winter Is the Best Time to Visit Fastback Moto

Winter is the off-season for many riders, which makes it the perfect time to tackle those big projects or upgrades. At Fastback Moto, our full-service shop is ready to help you get ahead:

Beat the Spring Rush: Schedule major services, rebuilds, or carb work now to avoid the wait.
Upgrade Your Ride: From tire swaps to performance tuning or custom installs, we’ll get your bike dialed in.
Join the Community: Follow us on social media for updates on winter classes, events, and meetups. Let us know what kind of workshops you’d love to see!

Our shop is more than a service center—it’s a hub for riders who live for the open road (or trail). Stop by, grab a coffee, and let’s chat about your winter plans. We’re as passionate about your bike as you are.

Keep the Adventure Rolling with Fastback Moto

Winter doesn’t have to mean downtime for riders. Whether you’re carving through southern Utah’s deserts, shredding snow-covered trails, or prepping for spring, Fastback Moto is here to keep your bike in top shape. From snow bike conversions to winter storage and everything in between, our team is all about fueling your passion for riding.

Ready to make this winter your best riding season yet? Visit Fastback Moto, drop by the shop, or give us a call. Let’s talk about your winter setup and plan the adventures ahead. Keep the throttle open, and we’ll see you on the road—or in the snow!

Ride It Like It’s 1979: Vintage Maintenance Tips That Work

by Fastback Moto | May 29, 2025 | Fastback Facts, General Content, Off-Road Content, Street Content

Keeping Your Vintage Bike on the Road Where It Belongs

Most riders have that one old-school bike they’ll never forget. Whether it was the first one you rode, the one that got away, or the one you swore you’d fix up someday. These bikes aren’t just machines; they’re connections to the past, reminders of who we were when we first fell in love with riding. Tyler’s first bike was a Rupp mini when he was just 4 years old. So our love for vintage bikes runs deep. Whether it’s a dusty backyard find, a family heirloom that holds memories, or the bike you’ve always wanted and now you have, we get it these bikes still matter.

While there’s no strict definition, bikes from the late older than the early 1990s are often labeled vintage, especially if they bring to mind a sense of nostalgia. These bikes are recognized for their simplistic quality and design.

Working on older motorcycles isn’t always fast, easy or lucrative. Nonetheless, for us, it is a labor of love. It takes mechanical know-how, time, patience, and most of all, respect for how these bikes were built. That’s why Fastback Moto is one of the few shops that actually welcomes vintage bikes. We enjoy the process: the detective work, the tuning, the challenge — and that incredible moment when an old motor breathes again.

Whether you ride yours regularly or keep it tucked away as a collector’s piece, a little care goes a long way toward keeping it alive for years to come.

Tips to Keep Your Vintage Bike in Top Shape

✅ Use ethanol-free gas

Vintage rubber and gaskets weren’t made to handle modern ethanol blends. Ethanol-free fuel helps reduce wear and makes cold starts easier — especially if your bike sits for long periods.

See https://fastbackmoto.com/fuel-facts-every-rider-should-know/

✅ Treat your tank right

If your tank has rust or damage it will need to be cleaned and resealed. If this is the case the rust and debris will need to completely stripped and removed before the tank gets resealed. be avoid Kream coatings at all costs. They will flake off and clog your fuel system. Instead, use Caswell epoxy, which bonds better and holds up to ethanol.

Here’s the product we recommend: https://caswellplating.com/epoxy-gas-tank-sealer.html

✅ Stick with OEM carbs when possible

Don’t toss your original carburetors. Most of the time, we can clean, rebuild, and re-tune them. Aftermarket carbs often cause more tuning problems than they solve.

✅ Don’t skip basic maintenance, even in storage

If your bike isn’t ridden often:

Drain the tank instead of relying on fuel stabilizers
Keep the battery charged by starting it every couple weeks or disconnect the battery entirely
Check tire pressure if sitting for long periods of time and before each ride. Tires should also be changed every 5 years regardless of tread wear.
Lubricate the chain
Ride the bike every few weeks if possible to keep the clutch and seals well lubricated.
Keep the bike in a garage or out of direct exposure to the elements if possible.
UV exposure and time make vintage plastics and wiring brittle. When working on the bike, use care when unplugging connectors or removing covers to avoid cracking old parts.

Thinking of Buying a Vintage Bike? Here’s What to Watch For:

Look for the following:

A matching engine and frame VIN
Signs of original paint or decals
An intact wiring harness (no wild splices or electrical tape patches)
A clean title (or at least a verifiable bill of sale)
Compression — we can test this for you
How complete it is: missing parts = more expense later

Red flags:

Missing side covers or gauges
Rust in the tank (a little is fixable, a lot is a project)
Rebuilt title with no history
Cracked engine cases or stripped bolt holes
No proof of when it last ran.

If you’re unsure, bring it by or send us pics. We’ll help you figure out if it’s a solid find or a money pit in disguise.

Fuel Facts Every Rider Should Know

by Fastback Moto | May 15, 2025 | Fastback Facts, General Content, Highlights, Off-Road Content, Street Content

Fuel Facts To Save You Money

At Fastback Moto, one of the most common issues we see — especially after a bike’s been parked through the winter — is old fuel causing hard starts, rough idling, or bikes that won’t fire up at all. The first thing we look for is bad fuel. After about 30 to 60 days, gas begins to lose its volatility and breaks down. As it degrades, it can leave behind a sticky, varnish-like residue that clogs up fuel systems.

Throw ethanol into the mix, and the problem gets worse. Ethanol absorbs moisture from the air, speeding up fuel breakdown and leading to corrosion inside your tank, lines, and carburetors.

Carbureted bikes are hit the hardest, with tiny jets and passages getting plugged up by gummy residue. But even fuel-injected bikes aren’t off the hook injectors can stick or gum up if bad fuel sits too long.

We’ve pulled apart tanks, fuel pumps and carbs full of thick, foul-smelling fuel residue more times than we can count.

But here’s the good news: with a little know-how and a couple of smart habits, you can avoid most of it.

We’re here to help you get the most out of your bike, your ride season, and your wallet.

“Choosing the right fuel isn’t just about increasing horsepower…”

Octane Matters

Choosing the right octane fuel isn’t just about increasing horsepower, it’s about giving your engine the clean, reliable fuel it was built for to protect it from unnecessary damage.

What Is Octane?

Octane rating measures a fuel’s resistance to pre-ignition (knocking) when fuel ignites too early in the combustion cycle.

The higher the octane, the more pressure the fuel can handle before igniting.

Here are some common Octane Levels and when to use them:

Fuel Table

Octane Rating	Where You'll Find It	Best For
85-87 (Regular)	Most Gas Stations	DO NOT USE IN YOUR BIKE
85-87 (Mid-Grade)	Some Gas Stations	DO NOT USE IN YOUR BIKE
91-93 (Premium)	Select/Performance-focused Stations	High-compression sportbikes, performance cruisers, touring bikes with advanced ignition timing
91-93 Ethanol-Free	Specialty Pumps, Marinas, Power Sports Stations	Carburated motorcycles, seasonal bikes, classics, bikes in storage, and 2-stroke premix applications, Vintage Bikes

Sticking to the minimum octane rating in your bike’s owner’s manual means it will run smoother with better throttle response and fewer headaches.

High-performance motorcycles, sportbikes, and some cruisers with higher compression ratios often require 91 octane or higher. Using a lower grade than recommended can cause pre-ignition (knocking), leading to excessive heat in the combustion chamber, closing faster than intended. Over time, this puts stress on your valves, valve seats, and piston crowns, potentially leading to premature wear or engine damage.

What Does It Mean to “Bend a Valve” on a Motorcycle?

Inside your motorcycle’s engine, valves open and close at precise times to let air-fuel mixture in (intake valve) and let exhaust gases out (exhaust valve). These valves move up and down rapidly in sync with the piston’s motion.

A bent valve happens when one of those valves makes contact with the piston while it’s closing, or when excessive heat, pre-ignition (knock), or mechanical failure causes the valve to warp.

This prevents the valve from sealing properly against the valve seat, leading to:

Loss of compression
Misfires
Rough running or no-start
Further damage to the cylinder, piston crown, or head if ignored

On a running engine, this is bad news. The bike might still run, but poorly; and continuing to ride it risks more expensive damage.

On a running engine, this is bad news. The bike might still run, but poorly; and continuing to ride it risks more expensive damage.

How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Bent Valve on a Motorcycle?

Costs depend on your bike, how many valves are damaged, and whether it’s a single-cylinder, twin, or multi-cylinder engine. Here’s a typical range for a shop like Fastback Moto:

Fuel Table

Service Type	Estimated Pricing
Valve clearance check/adjustment	$250–$450
Remove & inspect cylinder head	$350–$600
Valve replacement (single valve)	$80–$180 (part only)
Valve job (grind, replace, reseat 2–4 valves, new gaskets)	$800–$1,500+
Top-end rebuild (if piston/cylinder is damaged too)	$1,500–$2,500+

It adds up fast because of the labor involved. The cylinder head has to come off, valves inspected or replaced, seats cut, and everything reassembled with fresh gaskets and a valve clearance adjustment afterward.

The fix? Just fuel up with what your bike calls for. If you’re not sure, ask us — we’re always happy to help. It’s a small move that makes a big difference in ride quality and long-term health of the bike.

Ethanol-Free Fuel

Ethanol is a type of alcohol blended into most pump fuels to reduce emissions, unfortunately ethanol is rough on motorcycles. It’s hygroscopic nature absorbs water from the air. The longer your fuel sits, the more moisture it takes on. In bikes, especially carbureted models, this leads to:

Why We Love Ethanol-Free Fuel

If you’ve hung out at the shop, you’ve probably heard us talk about this. 91 Octane Ethanol-free fuel is a motorcycle’s best friend — especially for carbureted bikes, vintage rides, and anything that might sit for a bit.

Ethanol is fine for cars that run every day, but for bikes:

It pulls moisture from the air
Breaks down faster
Corrodes the inside your fuel tank
Can cause corrosion and gum up tiny fuel passages

Using ethanol-free fuel in your motorcycle means:

Easier starts after storage
Fewer carb issues
Cleaner-running engines
Less money spent on repairs

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Keeping fresh, high-quality fuel in we bike and choosing the right octane does more than protect your engine — it saves you money, time, and headaches during the ride season. Bikes that run clean fuel with the proper octane experience better throttle response, easier starts, and smoother idle. You’ll also avoid costly carb cleaning, fuel pump replacements, or injector service, which are often caused by fuel-related issues. The better care you take of your fuel system, the less you’ll spend on preventable repairs — leaving more in your wallet for proper maintenance, suitable upgrades, gear, gas, and road trips.

Is it a little more per gallon? Sure. But compared to a carb rebuild ($200–$450+) or injector service, it’s a solid investment.

Find Ethanol Free Gas Near You!

👉 GOLD EAGLE MAP – Find Ethanol-Free Gas Near You (Gold Eagle Map)

Fuel for 2-Stroke Motorcycles

2-stroke engines require pre-mixed fuel (gas + 2-stroke oil) and typically run best on 91 octane or ethanol-free fuel. Ethanol blends break down faster, attract moisture, and can lean out your mix, risking a seized piston or accelerated wear.

Best practice: Use 91+ octane ethanol-free fuel with a high-quality 2-stroke oil mixed to the ratio recommended by your manufacturer (commonly 32:1 or 50:1).
If ethanol-free isn’t available, use the highest octane possible and never let it sit long.

Why Octane (and Ethanol Free) Matters

We are all for saving money where you can but lower quality fuel in your bike is NOT the way to do it

Lower-than-recommended octane can cause engine knock, overheat valves, and damage piston crowns over time — especially in high-performance or high-compression bikes.
High-ethanol fuel attracts water, breaks down quickly, and can cause corrosion, clogged jets, or gummed-up carbs — especially bad news for older bikes and carbureted engines.
Ethanol-free fuel stays stable longer, burns cleaner, and is ideal for motorcycles especially those with limited use or seasonal storage.

One of the things we get asked about are fuel stabilizers, octane boosters, and fuel system additives. While some can help in specific situations, at Fastback Moto we generally don’t recommend them as a solution. Here’s why:

Most additives are a band-aid, not a fix. If your fuel is old or your carb is dirty, no bottle from the parts store is going to undo varnish or clean clogged jets properly.
Many additives are designed for cars, not motorcycles. Bikes, especially carbureted models, have much smaller fuel passages and different tolerances.

They can slow down fuel breakdown if you can’t get ethanol-free gas or if your bike will sit for a month or two. But nothing beats fresh, high octane fuel and draining your carbs and/or tank for storage.

Fuel Stabilizers & Additives: Do You Really Need Them?

We get it, you plan to ride, then before you know it a couple months fly by. Sometimes you’re tempted to dump a little something in the tank when a bike’s been sitting, or when you’ve only got questionable fuel around. Maybe you found a can of gas in the shed, or thought about using “lawnmower fuel” to get by. Unfortunately, fuel from storage cans or lawn equipment is rarely fresh, clean, or high enough octane for your motorcycle. It breaks down faster, collects moisture, and can leave varnish or debris that clogs carb jets and fuel injectors.

If gas has been sitting for a while, drain it before starting it. Popular stabilizers like Star Tron or SeaFoam can slow down fuel breakdown, but we still do NOT recommend even if used sparingly. It is always better to drain the fuel to avoid issues altogether

When in doubt? Skip the addatives and focus on good fuel habits. It’s cheaper, safer, and works every time.

Final Word from the Fastback Crew

Your fuel choices directly affect how your bike runs, how often you need service, and how much you enjoy your ride.

Not sure what octane your bike needs? Wondering if that fuel in your tank is still good? Or maybe you’re hearing a weird knock or dealing with a sticky throttle after sitting for a while. Either way, swing by Fastback Moto. Tyler and the crew have dealt with just about every fuel-related issue you can think of. Whether it’s a quick check, a fuel flush, or a carb rebuild, we’ll help prevent avoidable service work keep your bike running properly so you can get back to what matters: riding.

A little attention to fuel now saves you money, downtime, and headaches later.

Now, get out there and ride. 😉

Skill Level: Tips for Beginner Motorcycle Riders

by Fastback Moto | May 8, 2025 | Highlights, Skill Level, Street Content

“Starting your journey as a motorcycle rider is thrilling, and it comes with responsibilities.”

Embarking on your journey as a motorcycle rider is an exhilarating experience that opens up a world of freedom, adventure, and adrenaline. The wind rushing past you, the hum of the engine, and the open road ahead create an unmatched sense of thrill.

However, with this excitement comes significant responsibilities to ensure your safety and build the confidence needed to navigate roads effectively. One of the most critical steps in this journey is committing to wearing proper safety gear every single time you ride.

Unlike the protective shell of a car, motorcycles offer minimal inherent protection, leaving riders far more vulnerable in the event of a crash. That’s why investing in high-quality, purpose-built gear is non-negotiable for anyone serious about staying safe.

Gear Up for Protection: The Essential Armor for Every Ride

At the top of your safety gear list is a DOT-approved full-face helmet. The full-face design provides comprehensive protection for your jaw, face, and chin—areas often impacted in crashes—while also shielding you from wind, debris, and harsh UV rays during long rides.

When choosing a helmet, ensure it carries the Department of Transportation (DOT) sticker, and consider models with additional certifications like ECE or Snell for even higher standards of protection.

Complementing your helmet, a motorcycle-specific jacket with integrated armor is essential for safeguarding your upper body.

Look for jackets constructed from abrasion-resistant materials like leather or heavy-duty textile blends (such as Kevlar or Cordura), reinforced with CE-rated armor at the shoulders, elbows, and back.

These impact-absorbing pads significantly reduce the severity of injuries from falls or collisions.

For gloves, prioritize full-fingered designs with hard knuckle protection and reinforced palms to maintain grip and shield your hands during slides. Your hands are critical for controlling the bike, so protecting them ensures you retain control even in challenging situations.

“A well-maintained bike is more reliable…”

Keeping your motorcycle in top shape is another key to safe riding. A well-maintained bike is more reliable and less likely to cause accidents due to issues like worn tires or low oil.

Before every ride, check your tire tread depth and pressure to ensure good grip on Utah’s diverse roads. Schedule oil changes and seasonal inspections and learn basic checks like chain tension or brake pad wear.

Fastback Moto offers affordable services like oil changes and tire checks in to keep your bike road-ready.

Riding defensively is crucial since motorcyclists are harder for drivers to spot. Always assume drivers don’t see you, keep a safe 3–4-second following distance, and use headlights and hand signals to boost visibility, even in daylight.

Watch for Utah-specific hazards like gravel or wet pavement, and avoid lingering in blind spots. Practicing defensive riding in low-traffic areas can build your confidence.

Choosing the right motorcycle sets you up for success.

A beginner-friendly bike with a low seat height and manageable power, like a 250–500cc model.

Orion RXB 250 or Kawasaki Ninja 400, helps you build skills without feeling overwhelmed. Test-ride bikes at a dealership to find one that fits comfortably. Avoid heavy or high-performance bikes until you’re more experienced.

Fastback Moto has community events like bike nights where you can learn from seasoned riders. By following these tips, you’ll hit the road safely and confidently—reach out to Fastback Moto for gear, services, or advice to kickstart your ride!