Abstract: An Internet based shipping marketplace is implemented by one or more Web database servers which permit charterers and ship owners to exchange information and make commitments relating to the transportation of goods. The marketplace stores information describing participating charterers, ship owners and service providers, some of which is gathered by registration procedures used when the participants initially use the marketplace. The marketplace implements the information distribution, matching, negotiation and documentation functions needed to form binding commitments that govern the shipment of cargoes by vessel owners on behalf of charterers.

Abstract: A motorcycle including a fork assembly, a wheel including a wheel axle connected to the fork assembly, a bushing rotatably mounted on the wheel axle (e.g., by a spherical bearing), and an axle cover mounted on the bushing. The axle cover includes a base portion having a periphery, and a skirt portion extending away from at least a part of the periphery of the base portion. The skirt portion preferably defines at least one gap adapted to receive a fender strap to thereby allow the fender strap to be recessed into the axle cover. The axle cover can also include an opening through which the bushing is positioned. In addition, a hub cap can be connected to the bushing such that the axle cover is compressed between the hub cap and the bushing.