Tag Archives: Motorcycle Accessories

The Best Motorcycle Boots You Can Buy [Updated Q4 2020]

December 5, 2020 mcnews Leave a comment

One rider’s opinion of the best motorcycle boots will differ greatly when compared to another. Some riders are looking for close-fitting, high-performance sports boots, while others might be looking for casual boots with enough protection for slow city riding, but with a look and style that won’t look out of place in the office. So, for this list, we’ve decided to cast a wide net and look at some of the best motorcycle boots you can buy for a wide variety of situations.

Sports, off-road, adventure touring—we’re listing the best pairs we’ve seen on sale this year, no matter what category they fall into.

Our selection is based on a number of contributing factors. Safety is always the number one priority, but comfort, versatility, and value for money are also important metrics. After all, protective boots are only safe if you’re wearing them. Uncomfortable and unattractive boots often get left behind in favor of comfortable, cool-looking numbers. We’re only human! With that in mind, our choices offer great protection, great comfort, and great styling.

It’s also important that they’re supported by real-life reviews from real-life riders too.

Here are the top choices!

Dainese Fulcrum GT Gore-Tex Boots

Review: In-depth review
Price: $299.95
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

If you’re looking for touring boots that offer rocksteady protection and top-level comfort, then the Dainese Fulcrum GT Gore-Tex Boots are an excellent choice. Manufactured by Dainese, these boots are constructed from full-grain cowhide leather and Gore-Tex, for a breathable, weatherproof, and secure ride.

These boots have been enhanced with the addition of nylon heels, ankle inserts, and thermoformed shin guards to keep your feet and ankles protected in the event of an accident, either on tour or on the way to work. The protection doesn’t sacrifice your comfort; these boots are flexible and offer decent mobility, even for walking around town.

Other cool features include a gear shifter guard, calf adjustment straps, a tough zipper closure, reflective inserts, and a thick rubber sole. Take note though, if you have wide feet these may not be the best option as they tend to run a little narrow.

The Dainese Fulcrum GT Gore-Tex Boots are our top choice for affordable CE-certified touring boots.

SIDI Adventure 2 Gore-Tex Mid Boots

Review: In-depth review
Price: $349.99
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

If adventure touring is more your kind of thing, then the Sidi Adventure 2 Gore-Tex Mid Boots are worth a look. While these boots can be worn for a wide range of riding experiences, they’re ideal for adventure touring. They’re not as tall as standard adventure boots, but they offer a great balance of comfort and capability.

Made from Cambrelle, leather, Cordura, Gore-Tex, and microfiber materials, these boots are tough and sturdy, but light and breathable too. Despite the rigidity of some of the protective features, such as the shock-resistant heel cup and ankle defenders, these boots are very flexible. This makes them an ideal choice for adventure touring when you need bike boots that can double up as comfortable walking boots too.

These boots are easy to slip on and slip off, and they remain secure thanks to the use of micro-adjustable cam lock buckles. These buckles do a great job of keeping out any water that usually manages to sneak in through boot fastenings, making these boots dry and warm whatever the weather.

Ideal for road and dirt riding, in a wide range of weather, these boots won’t disappoint.

SIDI Performer Air Boots

Review: In-depth review
Price: $239.99
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

Our top sports boots are another SIDI product. These are the SIDI Performer Air Boots. They’re high-quality track boots that have been manufactured to a high standard using a combination of modern materials. These include a perforated Technomicro base, Cambrelle, mesh panels, DuPont polymer, and Nylon sections. Since they’re not made from leather, these boots won’t break-in over time, so make sure you get the right size from day one!

Since these boots are designed for high-risk riding scenarios, they come equipped with a number of safety-focused features. These include calf protector plates, ankle protective caps, inner cell foam padding, external plastic guards, a shin deflector plate, anti-abrasion panels, and a dual compound sole. Despite the shopping list of protectives, these boots are light and flexible, with incredible airflow.

They do have one major downside though. As they’re constructed from perforated materials, they have holes in them. Yeah, if you’re looking for really waterproof boots, these aren’t what you need. However, you can ride them in the rain without getting soaked, but don’t expect to stay 100% dry. In dry climates, these boots are awesome. In wetter regions, less so.

Alpinestars Tech 7 Enduro Boots

Review: In-depth review
Price: $389.95
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

If your sport takes you off-road rather than to the track, then the Tech 7 Enduro Boots from Alpinestars offer the best protection. Dirt riding requires different gear, as the sport makes different demands of the rider, and off-road boots need to be able to protect the rider from a much wider range of hazards.

Featuring a heavy-duty sole with outstanding grip, the Alpinestars Tech 7 Enduro boots are strong, stable, and flexible, with serious ankle protection, in a package that won’t interfere with your foot controls. These boots are made from a microfiber base for maximum comfort and abrasion resistance and adorned with a liberal amount of thermoplastic polyurethane.

The insides are lined with contoured padding, soft foam reinforcement, and an anatomically-shaped footbed. An innovative buckle system ensures a tight and close fit that keeps out excess water and dirt, ensuring a comfortable ride experience allowing riders to concentrate on the trails. The buckles have a cool memory function and can be replaced if they get damaged.

In summary: these are great off-road boots that are geared towards enduro riding than MX. Take care though—they have been known to run a bit narrow.

TCX Street Ace Air Shoes

Review: In-depth review
Price: $159.95
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

Modern motorcycle shoes have the ability to look cool and casual while offering decent levels of protection. Though these short boots might look like casual shoes, they’ll keep your feet protected in a crash. The TCX Street Ace Air Shoes are ideal short riding boots for those who need real protection but with a more versatile look.

These cool looking sneakers are made from a perforated leather upper combines with a luxurious Air Tech breathable lining, built on top of a sturdy high wear-resistant rubber sole. They’re reinforced in all the right places, with a Comfort Fit System keeping your feet snug, with a sturdy toe and heel counter, and padding around the ankles. The insole is anatomically shaped and replaceable.

Laces though? Yeah, laces aren’t ideal for motorcycle boots, but if you want the casual look and feel of a sneaker then you’ll compromise and go with laces. Besides, since these are versatile shoes, you won’t need to change in and out of them all day like you would with regular motorcycle boots. Laces can be annoying, but you’ll only have to fasten them once a day.

They’re not great in the wet but for casual riding in the summer months, they’re a great option.

Belstaff Endurance Boots

Review: In-depth review
Price: $495.00
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

Not all riders are happy to wear futuristic lookin’ boots covered in fancy thermoplastic. Some riders want a simple and refined boot that ticks all the safety boxes without any reflective piping or mesh panels. If you’re a traditional cruiser rider looking for sleek, refined, and safe footwear, then these Belstaff Endurance Boots are what you need.

Made from durable and water-repellent buffalo leather, these boots are tough, rugged, and built for longevity. The buffalo hide exterior is complemented with an internal breathable, waterproof membrane that promotes airflow without any dampness. The interior also features protective inserts, ankle impact protection, and a molded insole for added comfort.

The sole is a heavy-duty thing. It’s made from Vibram rubber and has a thick tread with a serious anti-slip surface. These boots are fastened with a zipper and hook/loop tab, with the option for a more precise fit using the collar buckle straps.

Belstaff is an expensive brand, and these boots aren’t cheap. However, they’re manufactured to a high standard and will stand the test of time—providing that you take care of them properly!

Rev’It! Royale H2O Boots

Review: In-depth review
Price: $369.99
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

Urban riders looking for the right balance of functionality, protection, and versatility should consider something like the REVIT Royale Boots. They’re similar in nature to the above mentioned TCX Street Ace Air Shoes, but they’re a more premium product packed full of even more advanced features. If you want a boot that can protect you while you’re riding and feels great while you’re walking, these are the boots for you.

Constructed from full-grain cowhide leather with textile paneling, these boots are tougher than you’d expect from a casual looking boot. They also reach further up the ankle than other casual boots too. Protective features include thermoformed heels, toe caps, and injected ankle cups, along with a tough synthetic rubber sole. A gear shift pad, anatomically shaped footbed, and adjustable ankle strap are also included.

What we really love about these boots is their waterproof properties. Each boot features a hydrate liner that really keeps water and moisture out. They also have a CoolMax mesh lining which is supposed to improve the airflow, but it’s not as good as it could be. And that’s the downside: these boots can get a little hot and sweaty. They definitely work better in a colder climate!

TCX Vibe Air Boots

Review: In-depth review
Price: $135.99
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

The TCX Vibe Air Boots are our top choice for those looking for light and airy summer boots with serious protection stats. Riding in hot weather can be a hot and uncomfortable affair but it doesn’t have to be. There are plenty of good summer boots out there, but TCXs Vibe Air kicks get our seal of approval. They’re everything you’d hope for and more from a summer boot.

These boots are made from a stylish and sturdy suede with Air Tech fabric sections. They’re lightweight boots, but they pack some heavyweight protection. These include malleolus protection inserts, PVC ankle guards, padded upper collars, and a durable, high-performance rubber sole. If you’re concerned about their protection, rest assured knowing that they’re CE certified.

On the inside, these boots also have a comfort fit system for a close and snug fit, along with anatomically shaped footbeds. Other cool features include reflective inserts to help raise your visibility, a Bycast leather gear shifter pad, and Velcro and lace-up fastenings. Though we don’t usually go for laces, these aren’t your typical laces—instead, they use a speed lacing system, and the Velcro collar does most of the heavy lifting!

Breathable, comfortable, safe, and affordable—these motorcycle boots offer a great return for your investment.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

The Best Motorcycle Jackets You Can Buy [Updated Q4 2020]

December 5, 2020 mcnews Leave a comment

Every motorcyclist needs at least one motorcycle jacket. Riding a motorcycle leaves you exposed to the dangers of the road, as well as at the mercy of the weather. The best motorcycle jackets offer crash protection in a comfortable, flexible, and hopefully, waterproof package. Despite there being thousands of products to choose from out there, there are plenty of so-called riding jackets out there that aren’t fit for purpose.

To help separate the wheat from the chaff, or rather, the fashion jackets from the real deals, we’ve put together a list of our current favorites.

Since there’s no one-size-fits-all jacket, we’ve divided this list up with entries from across the range. It includes two sport-focused jackets, two-adventure options, something for traditional cruiser riders, and our top choice for urban, café-racer style riders. And for good measure, we’ve rounded it off with a solid summer option, and a jacket for colder climates too.

To make our decisions, we looked at a wide range of factors, from build quality to comfort, as well as the level of protection offered and the overall value-for-money. Of course, we also evaluated jackets based on other reviews from real-life customers too.

Here’s what we came up with.

Alpinestars Missile Air Leather Jacket

Review: In-depth review
Price: $599.95
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

For riders who like riding fast, on-road, or on track, we recommend the Alpinestars Missile leather jacket. It’s a close-fitting, aerodynamic leather jacket that has been designed to accommodate the brand’s Tech Air Race Vest airbag system—though that is sold separately. Even without the airbag technology, this jacket offers excellent protection. It has a steep price, but it reflects the quality of the garment.

Made from race-grade 1.3 mm cowhide, with stretch panels and a breathable inner liner, this jacket is tough yet flexible, and comfortable to wear. It’s loaded with protective features, including CE certified Alpinestars GP-R shoulder and elbow protectors, injection-molded armor, and an ergonomic back hump. The back protector is sold separately, which is a bit of a shame.

Like most premium jackets, the Missile features pockets for additional armor, secure fastenings, and a full-length waist zipper for a pants attachment.

It’s a light and airy jacket with plenty of airflow that will keep you safe in the event of a high-speed crash. Upgraded with the optional extras, it’s a hard jacket to beat.

Joe Rocket Atomic 5.0 Jacket

Review: In-depth review
Price: $179.99
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

If you want a sports jacket but don’t want to pay Alpinestars prices, then the Atomic 5.0 from Joe Rocket is our favorite budget alternative. This jacket is ideal for sports riders and thanks to its combination of materials, it’s a great jacket for both warm and cold climates. Though it’s not the best jacket on the market, it offers excellent value for money: it’s safe and secure, versatile, comfortable, and affordable.

Made from a combination of Rock Tex and Hitena, the jacket’s outer layer is waterproof and abrasion-resistant. It features a variable airflow system that can be tailored to your needs by the opening and closing of zippers. The interior has a removable insulated liner for additional warmth if you’re riding in colder climates.

Despite being a budget option, the Atomic 5.0 ships with some excellent safety gear as standard. These include some quality CE-approved shoulder and elbow pads. It does come with a back protector too, but it’s not worth keeping—replace it with something more substantial asap! Other cool features include neoprene cuffs, pockets for more armor, practical stowage pockets, and a pant-attachment zipper.

The Joe Rocket Atomic 5.0 Jacket offers great value for money and armed with an upgraded back protector, it could rival some of the more expensive jackets out there.

REV’IT! Cayenne Pro

Review: In-depth review
Price: $559.99
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

The REVIT Cayenne Pro is a premium adventure jacket that offers protection from the road and the elements, in a comfortable and practical package. ADV jackets have to perform a range of roles: they have to offer good protection for both on and off-road spills, they need to keep the rider protected from a range of weather conditions, and they have to be comfortable and ergonomic too. Though many jackets claim to be great ADV jackets, very few tick all of the right boxes. The REVIT Cayenne Pro, however, is the real deal.

Made from a 750D Polyamide and Teflon-coated shell, the Cayenne Pro feels like it’s made from Cordura, but it isn’t. Instead, this blended material is REVIT’s own textile that uses 87% Polyamide, 7% leather, and 6% polyester. It’s abrasion-resistant, waterproof, and very durable. The outer shell uses mesh panels for added airflow, with Neoprene sections for improved flexibility. It does have a comfortable inner layer, but if you’re riding in cold climates it could be a little chilly if you’re not wearing a pullover!

In terms of crash protection, the Cayenne Pro uses SEEFLEX CE-level 2 protectors, a Seesoft back protector, and a very useful detachable kidney belt. It also has the ability to be upgraded, with an optional Adventure Neck Brace, and cooling vest.

This is a premium adventure jacket for genuine all-season riding. And it looks cool too.

Sedici Garda Waterproof ADV Jacket

Review: In-depth review
Price: $249.99
Buy: Revzilla

Next up, we have a more budget-friendly ADV jacket. This is the Sedici Garda, and it’s a very capable adventure jacket that won’t break the bank. Sedici is one of the in-house brands from COMOTO Holdings, the parent company of Revzilla, Cycle Gear, and J&P Cycles. As the in-house brand of some of the largest gear distributors in the world, you can rely on the quality of Sedici-branded products. The Sedici Garda is one of their best jackets.

Made from a 600D laminated textile with 1200D reinforced sections, this textile jacket can keep out the water, deliver good airflow, and won’t restrict your movement. The jacket features a microfiber-lined collar, with neoprene edges, and a full mesh airflow lining. Six vents help the jacket breathe, and a series of adjustable straps give the jacket a perfect, snug fit and help reduce turbulence.

Protection is provided by textured rubber panels at common impact areas, along with CE rated armor at the elbow and shoulder. It doesn’t feature a back protector, but it does have pockets to accommodate one. It also has a hydration bladder pocket and a number of practical inner pockets for your things. Oversized zippers, carbon reflective trim, and a pant-connection zipper are also cool additions.

If you’re looking for quality and reliable adventure gear on a budget, this jacket is what you need.

BMW TwinStripes Jacket

Review: In-depth review
Price: $749.00
Buy: Revzilla

Motorcycle jackets don’t have to be about aerodynamic shapes and cutting-edge materials, as seen here in the BMW TwinStripes jacket. Part of the 2020 BMW Motorrad Heritage Collection, the TwinStripes jacket was designed to accompany the brand’s latest cruise, the R 18. Whether you’re a BMW rider or not, you can’t deny that this jacket isn’t seriously cool.

It’s not just good to look at. While it looks like a fashion jacket, the TwinStripes jacket was built for protection. Made from premium cowhide leather, the TwinStripes features CE Level 1 NP-Flex armor at the shoulder and elbow, with a pocket for an additional back protector. It also has a full comfort liner, gusseted shoulders, and a zipper to connect it to pants if you feel the need to go for the full suit.

For the sake of practicality, it also boasts four outside pockets and three interior ones, but apart from that, there isn’t much else to say. And that’s a bit of a shame considering the hefty price tag—but if you want an embossed leather BMW logo, you’ve got to pay for it. For a rugged, old-school cruiser rider look that ticks all the right safety boxes, this is a great choice.

Scorpion EXO 1909 Leather Jacket

Review: In-depth review
Price: $499.95
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

If you’re looking for something a little more café-racer rather than cruiser rider, then we’d recommend the Scorpion EXO 1909 leather jacket. Again, it’s one of those effortlessly cool looking jackets that looks more like a fashion item than a serious jacket—but it’s not. The Scorpion EXO 1909 is tough, rugged, durable, and will protect you in an accident.

Designed as a tribute to the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (which was founded in 1909), this heritage-inspired jacket features soft distressed leather with reinforced overlays on the joints, for a flexible and functional feel. Inside, the jacket has a removable EverHeat liner, stretch panels, and plenty of ventilation.

Protection is provided by Sas-Tec Level 2 armor at the elbow and shoulder, along with a pocket that can accommodate a Sas-Tec back protector. Other practicalities include zippered vents, perforated panels, adjustment tabs, zipper closures, antique brass zippers throughout, and a pant zipper too.

It looks great, but reviews have even found that it can stand up to real-life accidents too. It’s an expensive jacket, but it will take care of you if you have a spill.

Dainese Super Speed Summer Jacket

Review: In-depth review
Price: $369.95
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

For our last two entries, we’re looking at the best overall summer and winter jackets. For summer, we’ve chosen the Dainese Super Speed Textile Jacket. It shares a lot of DNA with Dainese’s premium racing jackets but in a lighter, mesh-based form. If you experience hot summers or live in a climate that’s hot all year-’round, then this jacket offers serious airflow and serious protection in equal measure.

Made from a selection of top-quality textiles such as Duratex and Boomerang, the Dainese Super Speed is tough, secure, and close-fitting. On the inside, the jacket has a removable windproof insert and a sanitized lining. It’s a slim jacket, so it might not be the best option for larger riders, but there is a degree of adjustment that can be made at the waist, wrist, and neck.

In terms of protection, the Dainese Super Speed Textile Jacket comes with composite protectors certified to EN 1621.1/97 standards and aluminum shoulder inserts. There are pockets for extra pads, including a back pocket for a G1 and G2 back protector, with a front pocket for chest pads.

If you live in a warm climate, this is worth your money. However, if your summer doesn’t get that hot, you might find another more versatile jacket a better investment.

Firstgear Kathmandu Jacket

Review: In-depth review
Price: $369.95
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

Our choice for the top winter riding jacket would be the Firstgear Kathmandu. Named after the capital of Nepal, the Kathmandu jacket is designed with cold weather in mind. Built from a Hypertex waterproof outer shell, with 420 denier rip-stop nylon, this jacket is both durable and tough, but lightweight at the same time.

Protection is provided by fully-adjustable D3O T5 CE armor for the shoulder and elbows—a more flexible material than standard CE foam—with an EVA back pad at the rear. The armor is adjustable, but so is the rest of the jacket. Thanks for a series of straps, it’s possible for a real body-hugging fit, whatever your shape.

Other cool features include an under-helmet rain hood, 1.5-liter hydration bladder (and pack), and more intake and exhaust airflow vents than you’d know what to do with!

Even though it’s our top choice for a winter jacket, the reality is that this jacket is a true four-season jacket. It’s great in the cold at high altitude, but it’s also nice and breathable for when the sun comes out. Given the price and the level of protection that it comes with, this jacket is a real bargain.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

The Best Half & Open Face Helmets You Can Buy [Updated Q4 2020]

December 3, 2020 mcnews Leave a comment

Open-face helmets are popular options for riders who want increased airflow, unobstructed views, and moderate protection. Unlike full-face helmets, they won’t offer all-round protection and will leave areas of the face and skull vulnerable in the event of an accident, however, the majority of models are designed with your safety in mind.

Even so, we’ve put together a list of our favorites, separating the wheat from the chaff, with a goal of matching you with the best open-faced helmet for your needs.

But how do we decide what makes the list and what doesn’t? Well, a good open-face helmet will offer the best level of protection possible. It should also offer distraction free-riding without any annoying whistles or loose hardware.

And it shouldn’t pinch or hurt anyone wearing it! Of course, different budgets can afford different levels of quality, but we always ensure that our selections offer the best return for your investment, whether you’re spending a hundred dollars or a thousand.

So without further ado, let’s look at the best open-face helmets you can buy this year!

Biltwell Bonanza

Review: In-depth review
Price: $99.95
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

The Biltwell Bonanza is a cheap open-face helmet that offers DOT-approved protection with a price tag that literally anyone can afford. It’s a no-frills open-face lid that ticks the right boxes and features a few nice features to elevate it above the really cheap models. If budget is your primary concern, this is the helmet for you. It just happens to offer decent protection too.

So why do we recommend it? Because if you’re going to buy a cheap open-face, you might as well buy one from a reputable manufacturer that knows how to make a great value-for-money product. Biltwell is a name that we trust, and even these cheaper helmets are made to a respectable standard. The shell, for example, is made from a tough molded ABS material and paired with a custom-shaped EPS inner shell. It even has a hand-stitched inner liner with Lycra paneling.

For a product with such a low price tag, you get a good return for your investment. The Bonanza is comfortable to wear, looks cool, and performs its primary function well enough. It has plenty of positive reviews that support those claims. But even if you’re left disappointed by it, it only cost a hundred dollars, so you can’t really complain!

LS2 Verso

Review: In-depth review
Price: $129.98
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

The LS2 Verso is an affordable open-face motorcycle helmet that’s ideal for lightweight touring and commuting. Comprising of a Kinetic Polymer Alloy shell and tough EPS liner, the LS2 Verso is DOT-approved, offers a comfortable snug fit, and has a surprising number of plus features that give it great value for money.

The Verso uses a full-face shield to keep riders comfortable. As standard, it ships with a fog-resistant shield, with an air diffuser that’s designed to help combat fogging-up and provide adequate ventilation. This helmet also includes a drop-down sun visor too, though it’s not as effective as it could be and has an annoying habit of retracting when you lift the main face shield. It can also cause a whistling noise at speed too.

That being said, this is a budget helmet, and you do get an excellent return for your investment, minor quibbles aside. The build quality is excellent, it’s comfortable to wear, the airflow is great, and the addition of a quick-release chin strap and drop-down visor elevate this helmet above the usual budget products. You get a lot of helmet for not a lot of money.

Bell Custom 500 Helmet

Review: In-depth review
Price: $125.95
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

If you’re looking for a lightweight and inexpensive retro-themed half-face helmet, then the Bel Custom 500 has long been an obvious choice. It’s smart, stylish, comfortable, and well-made—all for an affordable price tag.

The latest version of the legendary Bell Custom 500 has a number of new improvements over its already successful predecessors. It now features a new headform for a closer and more comfortable fit. The new shell sits lower on your head. And thanks to a selection of shell and EPS sizes, it’s easier to get a better fit than ever before. Still, it’s worth mentioning that those with larger and rounder heads might find the Custom 500 line to be too uncomfortable, and tight in all the wrong places.

However, if you’ve got a narrower oval head, the Custom 500 should fit like a glove. The helmet includes a strong multi-density EPS liner, a padded strap with a stainless steel D-ring closure, a leather D-ring pull tab and a five-year warranty. Plus, this helmet comes in four different color options: black, matte black, white, and silver flake.

Bell Mag 9 Sena Helmet

Review: In-depth review
Price: $189.95
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

Next up, we have another Bell model. This time, it’s the Bell Mag 9 Sena helmet. The Mag 9 has been on the market for quite a few years now, and it’s always receiving great reviews. Not only is it a strong, secure, and comfortable open-face helmet, but it also features bold styling and the ability to accommodate a Sena SMH 10 Bluetooth Stereo Headset and Intercom device.

The Mag 9 features a tough but lightweight polycarbonate ABS shell, a choice of visor and shield options, a unique design that sets it apart from the crowd. The helmet can be worn with or without the visor, and with or without the face shield too. On the inside, it boasts a practical drop-down sun shield, contoured cheek pads, an antibacterial microfiber liner, and comfortable airflow thanks to the use of velocity flow vents.

Why most riders recommend this helmet is the fact that it accommodates Sena communication technology. It saves the hassle of having to adapt a helmet to use third-party equipment or pay inflated prices for a helmet that can only use a company’s own proprietary system. As you can guess by the price tag, the Sena SMH10 has to be purchased separately. However, the Bell Mag 9 is a cool and inexpensive helmet even for riders who aren’t looking for Bluetooth tech.

Nolan N21 Visor Helmet

Review: In-depth review
Price: $211.46
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

The Nolan N21 is a safe and secure helmet with a very stylish look. It’s compact and lightweight without compromising its safety rating or integrity. The N21 uses a wide shield that covers the face whilst offering a wide field of vision, making it an ideal choice for commuters and city riders. Featuring a polycarbonate shell, a snug interior with a removable and antibacterial lining, and a smart micro lock retention system, the Nolan N21 is the full package.

You’re either going to love or hate the VPS sunscreen. It’s quite cool that it retracts into a special recess on the helmet, but some riders simply prefer wearing sunglasses instead. However, if you like the look of this Nolan, we recommend leaving your sunglasses at home because you’ll have a hard time getting them to fit on your face with this helmet.

The only real negative point is the lack of ventilation. Though, on an open-face helmet, it’s not such a big deal. However, a vent or two would have been a nice addition. Still, that’s hardly a complaint because apart from that, this helmet is one of our favorites.

Schuberth M1 Pro

Review: In-depth review
Price: $499.00
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

The Schuberth M1 Pro is a premium open-face helmet. As Schuberth is a German company, you can rest assured that no feature was left untested in the development of this helmet. It has been wind-tunnel tested, aerodynamically sculpted, and designed to provide a luxury fit at a mid-range price point.

The shell is constructed using Schubert’s Direct Fiber Processing technique, an innovative process that uses glass fiber and resin with a heated mold to create a strong but lightweight shell. It features a tough and secure inner shell, and a high-quality and allergen-free removable antibacterial liner. The M1 Pro has good airflow thanks to a rear vent but without too much noise thanks to the helmet’s optimized aero acoustics.

Other cool features included a visor peak, an integrated sun shield, and the option to upgrade to a Pinlock-ready face shield. It does have space to accommodate Schuberth’s own proprietary microphone and audio system (SC1M) but it’s not universal. If it could use third-party Bluetooth technology and come with a Pinlock shield as standard, this helmet would be almost perfect.

Shoei J-Cruise II

Review: In-depth review
Price: $549.99
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

At the premium end of the open-face helmet spectrum, we have the Shoei J-Cruise. The most up-to-date model, the J-Cruise II, is one of the most advanced open-face helmets on the market. Using Advanced Integrated Matrix technology, the shell is compact and lightweight without compromising its overall strength. It also uses a multi-piece EPS liner to assist cooling whilst offering optimum protection.

The inside of the J-Cruise II is made up of a 3D Max-Dry washable interior liner and cheek pads made using a five-layer foam construction. The Pinlock- ready face shield is made with a scratch-resistant coating with a wide, cured construction for increased peripheral vision. The helmet also uses an inner sun visor that blocks up to 99% of harmful UV rays.

It’s a comfortable helmet and one of the best on the market. Riders love the fact that it’s compatible with Shoei and Sena’s SRL Bluetooth Headset, and because it comes with an industry-leading seven-year warranty. Available in a range of shell sizes and color options, if you’re looking for a premium open-faced helmet, start your search here.

Arai Ram-X

Review: In-depth review
Price: $699.95
Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

If money is no object, then the Arai Ram-X is worth looking at. Yes, it is expensive for an open-face helmet but it is DOT and SNELL certified, packs some of the most advanced technology in the segment, and will give you the best protection possible from an open-face lid. They call this one a premium open-face touring helmet, and for good reason.

Built around a Z-compound enriched Super Fiber Laminate shell, the Arai Ram-X is both tough and lightweight. Inside, the helmet boasts multiple-foam interiors, removable and replaceable cheek pads, and a practical VAS-Z Pro Shade sun shield. Ventilation is provided by Arai’s celebrated Corsair X ventilation system, complemented with side cowl exhausts for optimized airflow.

As a premium option, we do with that Arai would consider branching out into using more advanced construction and safety methods, such as a MIPS system. Still, Arai is one of the most reliable names in the business with years of experience making quality helmets, so they do know what they’re doing. No matter which way you look at it, the Arai Ram-X is an advanced helmet that offers a premium riding experience to anyone who wears one.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

The Best Full Face Helmets You Can Buy [Updated Q4 2020]

December 3, 2020 mcnews Leave a comment

When you’re out riding, you’ll want nothing less than the best gear available. Even if you prefer the wind on your face or an unobstructed view, there’s no denying that there’s nothing safer than a full-face helmet.

There’s no shortage of decent lids available on the market, but they are plenty of substandard helmets still being sold. To help point you in the right direction, we’ve got a list of some of the best full-face helmets you can currently buy, across the full budget spectrum.

Before we jump in and take a look, it’s worth noting how we came to these conclusions.

Firstly, there’s no such thing as a perfect helmet. What works for one rider won’t work for another. Some riders can’t ride with too much wind noise, while others don’t mind it. Some riders wear eyeglasses and need a helmet that accommodates them, while others might have other priorities.

For us, a good helmet is one that is safe, keeps distracting wind noise to the minimum, won’t put too much strain on your neck, and won’t bankrupt you if you invest. Of course, all of the helmets we list are at least DOT certified, generally receive favourable reviews, and try to keep the noise to the minimum where possible! As for the financials, well, the best gear is always the gear you can afford.

So, let’s see what’s currently on the market.

Bell Qualifier

Review: In-depth review

Price: $114.95

Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

The Bell Qualifier has long been one of our favorite budget-friendly full-face helmets. It’s cheap and is an unashamedly “no-frills” lid, but while it lacks in top-end features, it doesn’t make any compromises when it comes to your safety. It’s DOT-approved, has an aerodynamic polycarbonate shell, with ample interior padding, and a D-ring closure strap.

It’s often described as a no-frills helmet, but the Qualifier does have some premium features. These include a removable anti-bacterial liner, contoured padding, adjustable ventilation, ClickRelease tool-free shield swapping technology, an anti-fog visor as standard, and integrated speaker pockets. It even has a five-year manufacturer’s warranty.

Just know that this is an entry-level helmet for entry-level riding. If you’re planning on undertaking some advanced maneuvers at speed, we recommend that you buy a more appropriate helmet. At high speeds, the Qualifier can get noisy, and in some cases, the visor can lift. However, for something cheap and affordable that you can wear for riding around town, it’s a great value lid.

Shoei RF-SR

Review: In-depth review

Price: $399.00

Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

If you’re looking for a comfortable, quiet, and safety-conscious helmet with great airflow, then the Shoei RF-SR is worth looking at. Shoei is one of the leading names in the motorcycle helmet game, with a proven track record for excellence. The RF-SF continues that trend: it’s a durable helmet that surpasses DOT and SNELL M2015 requirements. Plus, it’s full of top-tier features and functions too.

Handmade in Japan, these helmets feature tough dual-layer EPS liners encased in an aerodynamic shell for optimum impact absorption. The RF-SR is small and lightweight, taking the strain away from your neck and shoulders, and making for a less turbulent ride.

An advanced spring-loaded CWR-1 shield protects the eyes and keeps wind egress and noise to an absolute minimum. Emergency Quick Release System technology, comfort padding, breath guards, and a chin curtain, are all included as standard.

Take note that this helmet is optimized for upright riding rather than bunched-up sport riding. At high-speed, the noise level will become noticeably louder!

Simpson Ghost Bandit

Review: In-depth review

Price: $469.95

Buy: Revzilla

The Simpson Ghost Bandit is a full-face helmet with an attention-grabbing design, top-level features, and a great safety record. It’s DOT and ECE certified with a tough yet lightweight composite shell, but it has a design that’s chock full of attitude. It offers the perfect balance of protection and style, without compromising either of the two.

Now, you should never buy a helmet solely based on how good it looks. That’s a fact. This one just happens to look great and tick all the right boxes. It features a removable anti-bacterial liner, a drop-down sun visor, tool-free shield removal, and serious ventilation.

The dual chin vents are adjustable and work with the top and rear vents to promote airflow. There are removable air dams to help cut-down noise, but we do have to say that this helmet can get noisy at high speed. It’s a shame because this helmet has it all—it even has integrated speaker and microphone pockets, which is something that should be standard these days but isn’t. If the price was lower, or the noise problem wasn’t so bad at 60+ mph, this would be one of the best helmets out there.

HJC RPHA 70 ST Carbon

Review: In-depth review

Price: $476.99

Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

HJC’s helmets are often included in these kinds of lists because of their cheaper, budget-friendly models. This time, we’ve decided to include the RPHA 70 ST Carbon series. It’s not a budget helmet, but it’s also not a premium model either. For a mid-range helmet, it offers great value for money and impressive protection. Naturally, it’s DOT-approved and features many advanced safety features.

The helmet uses P.I.M Plus (Premium Integrated Matrix Plus) technology which uses a blend of carbon fiber and carbon-glass hybrid fabric for the outer shell. On the inside, the RPHA features an anti-bacterial moisture-wicking liner with removable cheek and crown pads. The HJ-26 anti-fog shield can be swapped without tools, and a separate tinted sun-shield is also included.

Ventilation is good on this HJC< with intake and exhaust vents and a rear vent switch. Unfortunately, this helmet can get loud when you’re gunning it. For most riders, this won’t be a problem, but if you plan on taking advantage of the HJC’s speaker pockets take note of the sound issue.

The wind noise is a negative point, but the overall quality of this helmet for the price cancels it out.

AGV Corsa R

Review: In-depth review

Price: $799.95

Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

AGV is widely regarded as one of the best helmet manufacturers in the game, and the Italian brand’s Corsa R helmet is one of their best. Ideal for street riders and track racers alike, the Corsa R is professional-grade hardware. Though it’s a step-down from the brand’s flagship Pista range, the Corsa offers many of the same features in a more affordable package.

Built using a combination of carbon fiber and aramid, with a tough multi-density EPS liner, the Corsa R can withstand shock and impacts, but without weighing heavily on your head. It’s lightweight, weighing 3.45 lbs, but packs heavyweight features.

Inside, there’s an intelligent integrated ventilation system to promote airflow, adjustable vents, removable cheek pads, and a reversible helmet liner. The face shield makes a perfect seal with the helmet, and it’s locked in place with a dual-purpose locking system. It’s not a noisy helmet, but it does have a negative point: replacement visors can be quite expensive!

Bell Star MIPS

Review: In-depth review

Price: $374.99

Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

The Bell Star was an instant icon when it first arrived on the scene. Now, we have the updated version of that classic lid, but this time with added MIPS. MIPS, or Multi-directional Impact Protection System, is a special layer in a helmet between the shell and the EPS liner that reduces impact and rotational forces from damaging the brain. What could make the Bell Star even better? Having MIPS installed, that’s what.

Aside from the MIPS, the Bell Star uses a Tri-matrix composite shell made from Aramid, carbon fiber, and fiberglass. Inside, it features an advanced X-Static silver liner that provides top-level odor and bacteria protection. What we love about this helmet is that it’s eyewear friendly, with small recesses in the interior foam that can accommodate the arms of eyeglasses.

It can also accommodate communication devices thanks to the integrated speaker pockets and uses an advanced Panovision face shield with Class 1 optics. It also exceeds SNELL M2015 and DOT requirements.

Take care when ordering one of these though. Sizing it correctly can be difficult, and they have been known to be tight on larger heads.

Nolan N87 MotoGP

Review: In-depth review

Price: $339.95

Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

Nolan’s N87 helmet is a DOT certified lid that has been in the game for a while now, but their MotoGP edition elevates the helmet to a new level. Made from a tough polycarbonate shell, the N87 features an ultra-wide Pinlock-ready face shield, an inner sun shield, Clima-comfort inner liner, and washable contoured cheek pads.

It’s comfortable to wear and easy to operate thanks to Nolan’s Microlock straps. There’s plenty of ventilation too, and with the added AirBooster technology, it rarely fogs up. However, it can get a little noisy when you’re traveling at high speed.

The drop-down sun visor, though rated with 400UV protection, is the only real negative. The deployment and retraction mechanism could be better. Also, the helmet is set up to accommodate Nolan’s N-Com communication system, but it may not accommodate devices from other brands. If communication is important, check that your device fits before pulling the trigger.

Otherwise, this is a comfortable and innovative helmet at an affordable price point.

Arai Corsair X

Review: In-depth review

Price: $849.95

Buy: Revzilla | Amazon

The Arai Corsair X is a premium helmet that comes in a variety of finishes, with varying price tags. The standard Corsair X is remarkably affordable considering the level of engineering and technology involved. Made from Arai’s proprietary PB SNC2, a blend of resin and synthetic fibers, the shell is strong and tough, and designed to protect against direct impacts as well as “glancing” impacts too.

To do this, Arai uses a design that redirects energy rather than absorbs it. It’s one of many advanced features in this full-face helmet. On the inside, the helmet has an Eco-Pure Liner for antibacterial and comfort purposes, advanced ventilation for optimized airflow, peel away padding that can be removed in an emergency, and speaker pockets.

The face shield is an anti-fog VAS MAX Vision unit, held in place using a Variable Axis System powered shield pivot. It also included a special shield latch that prevents unexpected opening and keeps noise penetration to a minimum. The VAS system is one of the best features of this helmet, making for intuitive face shield operation when riding.

Unfortunately, it does have a high price tag, even more so if you invest in a race-replica paint job. But, if you can afford it, it’s one of the best tools for the job.

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

The Best Modular/Flip-Up Helmets You Can Buy [Updated Q4 2020]

December 2, 2020 mcnews Leave a comment

Modular helmets have long been the go-to choice for tourers, commuters, riding instructors, and those who value versatility and practicality along with protection and comfort. Popping up the chin bar is great when you’re stopped and need a breath of fresh air, or want to have a quick conversation with a fellow road user.

And despite what people say, the modular nature of these helmets does not decrease their protection ability. With so many products on the market, here’s a list of some of the best modular helmets you can buy.

But before we look at them, here’s how we made our choices.

A good helmet must meet certain criteria. Most importantly, it has to be safe. It also has to offer a good return for your investment. Lastly, it needs to have earned a good amount of favorable reviews from a broad spectrum of riders.

If a helmet can meet those demands, it’s worthy of our recommendation. Here are our favorites!

Schuberth C4 Pro

Review: In-depth review
Price: $699.00

The Schuberth C4 Pro is an updated version of the already celebrated C4. It’s a tough and durable modular helmet that features a DFP (Direct Fiber Processing) glass fiber shell, with an innovative sectional EPS foam liner, that’s DOT-certified and performs well on the SHARP test.

On the inside, the helmet uses ShinyTex antibacterial liner that provides a comfortable and secure fit, with an integrated channel to accommodate the arms of eyeglasses. The ventilation on the C4 Pro is very good, thanks to multi-channel vents that provide serious airflow without introducing any unnecessary road noise.

It features an intuitive flip-up system, with an extra-wide viewport and anti-fog face shield. It also accommodates Schuberth’s proprietary intercom system, which can be purchased separately.

The Schuberth C4 Pro could be one of the best modular helmets ever made if it was a little lighter. For some riders, the weight of this helmet is a turn-off. However, if you can tolerate the heavier weight in exchange for tough protection, advanced engineering, and top technology, then give this one a go.

Where to Buy: Buy on Revzilla / Buy on Amazon

AGV Sportmodular Carbon Helmet

Review: In-depth review
Price: $750.00+

AGV’s Sportmodular Carbon helmet is a great helmet for those looking for a lightweight flip-up lid made from advanced materials. It’s a carbon fiber helmet with a carbon chin bar, formed into a shape that’s designed to minimize impact energy and protect the skull and collarbone simultaneously.

There’s a 5-density EPS liner under the carbon shell, with a wide range of interior comfort options. These include eyeglass-friendly, pressure-free cheek pads, crown pads, and a removable nose guard and wind protector. Ventilation is provided by AGV’s Integrated Ventilation System (IVS) which uses innovative input vents and exhaust extractors to provide optimum airflow.

The flip-up portion uses an advanced lock system that prevents accidental openings. The face shield is a Max-Vision Pinlock anti-fog shield, which also features a smart lock system too. Other notable features include an internal sun shield and a titanium double-D retention system.

Depending on your head shape, the Sportmodular can either be a hit or a miss. If you’ve got a narrow-shaped head, you may experience increased noise volume—and that’s not ideal. However, if you’ve got a rounder head, the fit will be great and the noise egress will be at a minimum.

Where to Buy: Buy on Revzilla / Buy on Amazon

HJC RPHA 90S

Review: In-depth review
Price: $420.00 ish

The HJC RPHA 90S is a stylish modular helmet that’s lightweight and tough. It uses many of the same components and features found on the brand’s top-tier racing helmet, the RPHA 11 Pro, but at a more accessible price point. Using HJC’s advanced P.I.M (Premium Integrated Matrix Plus) technology, a carbon fiber, and carbon-glass hybrid, and an eyeglass-friendly EPS, the HJC RPHA 90 S is a safe bet for a wide range of riders.

Inside, the helmet features a MultiCool interior, with antibacterial, moisture-wicking, quick-dry fabric. This interior liner has also been designed to keep noise to a minimum—though it’s still not the quietest of helmets in our opinion. Still, if you can put up with the noise, you’ve got a comfortable, well-ventilated, and secure helmet.

The wide eye port offers improved peripheral vision, and the chin bar has an innovative one-touch open and close locking system that can be opened one-handed, and with gloves on. The standard visor is an anti-scratch, anti-fog Pinlock faces shield.

It’s worth noting that the RPHA 90S also accommodates SMART HJC 10B or 20B Bluetooth communicators.

Where to Buy: Buy on Revzilla / Buy on Amazon

LS2 Valiant II

Review: In-depth review
Price: $339.98

LS2 make high-quality helmets at affordable prices, and their Valiant modular helmet was a resounding success when it was first launched. Now, we have the second generation of that celebrated model: the Valiant II. Built from an innovative Kinetic Polymer Alloy (KPA) composite shell and EPS liner, it’s lightweight, strong, and affordable.

On the inside, the Valiant II uses a high-tech comfort liner with moisture-wicking fabrics, and thermo-formed padding. The thermo-formed pads boost comfort and breathability while providing a close fit. A series of intakes and exhaust ports allow for optimized airflow, but without introducing any excess noise. It’s quite a quiet helmet, even at high speed.

The flip-up section uses a metal latch on the chin bar to prevent unexpected openings, and it also has an open-function that keeps the helmet open when required too. Other cool features include a built-in drop-down sun shield and Pinlock-ready face shields.

If you’re looking for an affordable DOT-certified flip-up helmet that offers a comfortable and quiet experience at an affordable price, this is worth looking at.

Where to Buy: Buy on Revzilla / Buy on Amazon

Nolan N100-5

Review: In-depth review
Price: $409.95
Nolan’s N100-5 is a sleek DOT and ECE-approved flip-up helmet that has been getting some great reviews lately. Made from a polycarbonate shell, the N100-5 is a surprisingly light and compact modular helmet. It feels high-quality, and if you’re looking for value for money, you’re going to get it with this helmet.

The outer layer is tough and strong, and the inside comfortable and secure. It uses a removable and washable Clima Comfort liner, with single-block cheek pads. Ventilation is great too. Nolan has installed the N100-5 with an advanced ventilation system with Air-booster technology for comfortable airflow. And unlike many modular helmets, the Nolan N100-5 is actually quite quiet.

Other features include a wide face shield, a dual-action chin guard opening system, and a UV400 drop-down sun shield.

The downsides with the Nolan N100-5 include the fact that it’s only available with two shell sizes and the fact that you can only use Nolan’s own communication hardware with it. Nolan’s devices are great, but if you add the price of their N-Com B901 onto this helmet’s asking price, it makes it quite an expensive lid.

Where to Buy: Buy on Revzilla / Buy on Amazon

Shoei Neotec 2

Review: In-depth review
Price: $699.00
Shoei’s Neotec 2 is a premium modular helmet that can go toe-to-toe with industry mainstays such as the Schuberth C4 Pro. They’re the same price and close in quality, but the Shoei would come out on top in a direct comparison.

The Neotec 2 uses an aerodynamic shell design that’s reinforced with dual-layer EPS layers. Sculpted with an intermediate oval shape, this Shoei should comfortably fit most riders without a fuss. It features a 3D shaped and eyeglass-friendly comfort liner with pads that have been ergonomically shaped for optimized safety, fit, and comfort.

It’s a quiet helmet, as much as modular helmets can be, but it isn’t as quiet as it could be. However, Shoei has mentioned that it’s traded silence in exchange for airflow. Thanks to the use of intakes and exhausts, and Shoei’s Vortex Generator, ventilation is not a problem.

It’s not without its negative points though. The Neotec’s ratchet strap can be uncomfortable, and there’s no shortage of reviews mentioning that it can cut into your neck, with little room for adjustment. Apart from that, it’s one of the best modular helmets on the market.

Where to Buy: Buy on Revzilla / Buy on Amazon

Bell SRT Modular Helmet

Review: In-depth review
Price: $369.95
When you think of Bell Helmets you might not immediately think of a modular helmet, but they do make them! The SRT uses Bell’s incredible experience in making sports-focused helmets and deploys it in a smart touring-friendly flip-up with an affordable price tag. Built around a lightweight composite shell, the Bell SRT has many premium features that make it worthy of this list.

Aside from the SRT’s practical flip-up chin bar mechanism, the exterior boasts a wide Panovision face shield with class one optics. Unfortunately, the shield could do with more detents for a varied ride experience, but that’s a small gripe. However, if you’re riding in hot climates it could be a deal-breaker. The regular ventilation is fairly good, but being able to keep the shield open in a few more different positions would really help.

On the inside, the SRT features a removable and washable antibacterial liner, eye-wear compatible padding, a drop-down sun shield, and recessed EPS speaker pockets that can accommodate a wide range of third party communication devices.

Not only is this helmet DOT-certified, but it also comes with a five-year warranty too.

Where to Buy: Buy on Revzilla / Buy on Amazon

Klim TK1200 Karbon Architek Modular Helmet

Review: In-depth review
Price: $599.99
When it comes to touring apparel, the folks at Klim know what they’re talking about. The TK1200 was already an impressive modular helmet, but it has been revamped with a new carbon shell. Using a hot-molded and vacuum-sealed pre-impregnated carbon fiber construction method, Klim’s helmet is incredibly light and strong.

To keep things light, the TK1200 bucks another trend by doing away with a drop-down sun shield on the inside. Instead, it uses a transition visor that adapts to the UV level. It keeps the sun out, but it doesn’t prevent cooling winds from giving you plenty of ventilation.

Using intelligent vents and exhausts, airflow is optimized, but it doesn’t interrupt your ride with outrageous noise levels either. Klim uses an innovative Aero Acoustics system to keep distracting noise to the bare minimum.

Other practical features include a breakaway chin guard mechanism, comfortable molded interior padding, and a quick-release buckle. Sadly though, the Klim TK1200 Karbon is only available in one shell size, which is a little disappointing. But if it fits your head properly, you can’t go wrong with this advanced modular helmet.

Where to Buy: Buy on Revzilla / Buy on Amazon

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com

Motorcycle News, News

Nelson-Rigg Dual-Sport Saddlebags and Tail Bag | Gear Review

June 25, 2020 mcnews Leave a comment

Nelson-Rigg Saddlebags and Tail Bags Review

My first street-legal motorcycle was a Honda XL500R dual-sport, and as a teenager I rode the wheels off that thumper, generally wearing a backpack to carry stuff since securely fitting the soft luggage available then to its skinny seat and fenders was a pain. Like our dual-sport bikes of today, however, soft luggage for them has advanced considerably, enough that it’s now possible to quickly and securely attach enough for an on-/off-road overnighter, even on my little Yamaha WR250R.

Nelson-Rigg recently released a pair of Dual-Sport/Enduro Saddlebags that hold 12 liters per side, or 15 liters per side expanded, a good size for a short camping trip into the backwoods or trips to the grocery store on most dual-sport singles. Constructed of UV treated, water-resistant Tri-Max fabric with an anti-slip/scratch protective panel on the back, their kidney shape is well suited to the upswept tail section and muffler of the typical dual-sport bike, and the lengthwise zipper on top makes it easy to load larger items—I was able to slip a large roll of paper towels and four cans of soda easily into one without even expanding it. Should you need more space, a circumferential zipper unzips to expand the bags outward, and there’s a pouch pocket for tools and whatnot on the underside of each.

The mounting system starts with the usual pair of adjustable hook-and-loop straps that go over the seat. Then you tie off the front of the bags with a slip-buckle strap that also serves as a tensioner for the load in the bag along with another tensioning strap on the outside. The aft straps attach to an adjustable harness with U-shaped buckles on each end that slips onto the rear fender. It takes a bit of fiddling to get everything adjusted properly, but once you do the bags end up better secured to the bike than typical saddlebags. They still aren’t held down as tightly as bag types that attach to a separate harness, and these saddlebags aren’t waterproof, so I would categorize them as medium-duty, best for on-road and light, dry off-road riding. Make sure to have a heat shield in place if a bag would otherwise contact a muffler.

Nelson-Rigg’s Dual-Sport Saddlebags do hold a lot, and their top lengthwise zipper (versus a roll-down opening) makes them very convenient to use. To add even more capacity, Nelson-Rigg’s Trails End Dual-Sport Tail Bag holds 6.5 liters or 11 liters expanded, attaches easily to lots of motorcycle types—not just dual-sports—and its rugged UltraMax fabric construction holds it shape when empty. Zippers are water-resistant and also keep out dirt and dust, and there’s a Molle panel on the lid for attaching even more stuff. This tail bag is perfectly sized for my soft lunchbox, for example, and has tie-down straps inside to secure the load.

As long as your off-road adventures aren’t too gnarly, this Nelson-Rigg saddlebag/tail bag combo is a convenient solution to dual-sport luggage needs. The Dual-Sport/Enduro Saddlebags go for $142.95 and the Trails End Dual-Sport Enduro Tail Bag is $119.95.

For more information, visit Nelson-Rigg.

Source: RiderMagazine.com

Motorcycle News, News

Hepco & Becker Engine & Tank Guards | Gear Review

May 19, 2020 mcnews Leave a comment

Because adventure motorcycles tend to be heavier, more feature-laden bikes, when ridden off-road the likelihood of a dirt nap doing expensive damage is pretty high, so they really need factory or aftermarket guards to protect vulnerable engine parts and fragile plastic (paradoxically making the bike heavier still, but such is life). In an effort to keep my Honda Africa Twin as light as possible yet protected from horizontal misadventures, I recently bolted on a set of German-made Hepco & Becker Engine and Tank Guards acquired from Moto Machines. Available in your choice of shiny stainless steel or black powder coat for a variety of ADV machines, both the tank guard and engine guards are made of tubular steel using a strong but minimalist design that keeps weight down without sacrificing any protection — the black $301.68 Tank Guard weighs 8 pounds and the $272.85 Engine Guards weigh 5.5 pounds total. Their installation kits come with everything you need to securely mount all four main left and right pieces in about 90 minutes, using existing bolt holes on the bike’s frame, so there’s no drilling or cutting required.

Hepco Becker engine guards on Honda Africa Twin

On the 2016 and later Africa Twins, the tank guard attaches at the front engine mount on each side, with another frame mounting point under the headlight. Hepco & Becker’s instructions are pretty good, and with a bit of creative contortion I was able to install the tank guard by myself with basic hand tools, though a helper would have made it easier. The engine guards bolt on in several places around the twin’s bottom end for maximum protection, and only required removing the skid plate and loosening some exhaust bolts to install (and Moto Machines offers a tough-looking Hepco & Becker Skid Plate for $313.20 that could be added at this time). The left engine guard is wide enough to accommodate the Africa Twin’s optional dual-clutch automatic transmission, so there’s a sizable gap between it and the engine on my manual trans model, but it doesn’t stick out any farther than the Tank Guard. The toes of my size-13 boots contact the back of the engine guards occasionally, but they don’t interfere with using the brake pedal or shift lever on the manual trans model.

In addition to protecting the engine and fairing from most tipovers, rocks, etc., the bars make great places to mount auxiliary lights, luggage, cruising pegs and more. The Tank Guard has hole tabs on each side for the optional Bracing Bow ($99.50) that crosses in front of the radiator, and Moto Machines also offers a Headlamp Guard ($114.01) for the Africa Twin’s expensive LED headlight that bolts on top of the Tank Guard. Overall it’s well-made protection that bolts on quickly and easily and can save you far more than it costs when your ride goes sideways.

Source: RiderMagazine.com

Motorcycle News, News

Nelson-Rigg Tool Roll | Gear Review

May 19, 2020 mcnews Leave a comment

Does anyone carry tools anymore? With everyone packing smartphones, credit cards and roadside assistance, not to mention the reliability of modern motorcycles, some folks just hope for the best. But if you’re a touring rider who logs days or weeks on your motorcycle, especially if you venture far from home or off-road into remote areas, then you know that an ounce of preparation can save you a pounding headache.

These days most motorcycles come with woefully inadequate toolkits. There may be a cheapo screwdriver and perhaps a wrench or two, but that’s about it. You won’t be repairing your throttle-by-wire system out in the field, but you might need to tighten a mirror or a bolt that has vibrated loose. And, just as packing a rain suit seems to keep the rain at bay, carrying a well-stocked toolkit — and staying on top of your motorcycle’s maintenance schedule — may help you avoid problems in the first place.

The best way to carry tools is in a tool roll, like this one from Nelson-Rigg. Made of abrasion-resistant UltraMax polyester, it’s black on the outside but has a high-visibility orange interior that makes it easy to see what’s what. The main compartment has pockets of varying widths with elastic loops to hold tools in place, and there are separate elastic loops to hold CO₂ tire-inflation cartridges or tightly rolled stacks of $100 bills. There’s also a small, zippered mesh pocket to hold easy-to-lose items like extra bolts, nuts, etc. A large flap folds over the main compartment, and when spread out it’s a convenient place to put removed hardware or parts so they’re easy to see. The rolled-up roll secures with a long hook-and-loop strap that adjusts to accommodate whatever you decide to pack in there.

My tool roll is stocked with what I need for dual-sport rides, including combo tire iron/axle wrenches, rim protectors, a Leatherman multi-tool with extra bits and a bit driver extender, wrenches and sockets specific to my bike, vice grips, a JB Weld seal stick, zip ties, nitrile gloves, a tow strap and other odds and ends. Spend some time assembling a set of tools that includes only the essentials, and keep your tool roll, flat-repair kit, pump and first-aid kit in your saddlebag.

Nelson Rigg’s Rigg Gear Adventure Tool Roll measures 13.75 x 10.5 inches, costs $24.95 and comes with a lifetime warranty. Also available is a Rear Fender Bag ($55.95) that includes the tool roll.

For more information, see your dealer or visit nelsonrigg.com.

Source: RiderMagazine.com

Motorcycle News, News

Wunderlich Navigator Lock for BMW RT Central Lock System | Gear Review

May 5, 2020 mcnews Leave a comment

Wunderlich Navigator Lock secures the GPS on 2014 and newer BMW R 1200/1250 RT motorcycles equipped with factory central lock system.

BMW’s liquid-cooled R 1200 RT and R 1250 RT models are available with a factory installed GPS mount ideally positioned at the top of the instrument panel. To install your BMW Navigator 4, 5 or 6 GPS, you just push it in place…click. To remove it, you push a release button on the side of the binnacle. But that convenient push-to-release feature also puts your GPS at risk for a quick crime of opportunity by a passing scofflaw. Of course, you can just take your GPS with you or lock it in a pannier whenever you leave the bike unattended, but that’s a hassle, especially when touring.

Your humble scribe is not the only RT rider who’s wondered why BMW didn’t include some way to lock the GPS in place, especially on RT’s like mine equipped with central locking that secures both panniers, both fairing pockets and the top case, by pressing a button on the remote or the handlebars. Now Wunderlich offers the Navigator Lock for 2014 and newer RT’s. It’s a mechanism powered by a servomotor that disables the navigator release mechanism when you activate the bike’s central lock system. The servomotor attaches neatly out of sight, beneath the bike’s nosepiece, and plug-and-play electrical connections piggyback off the actuator for a fairing compartment lock. Accessing the space to install the unit and make the connections is a straightforward job following the supplied instructions. Here are a few observations for the installation:

After removing the windscreen and nose piece, the frame of the Navigator Lock slots in behind the GPS mount and, with a little coaxing, over two plastic nibs on the nose piece. It’s not going anywhere. The actuator aligns with an opening and, once deployed by engaging the central lock system, mechanically disables the GPS release mechanism. The right audio speaker gets in the way of wire routing, so remove the grill and the speaker itself, then route the lock’s power cord down through the opening.

The Navigator Lock fits neatly underneath the RT’s nose piece.

To source power and the bike’s central locking system, the side panel must come off. If you haven’t removed the side panel before, look up the procedure in your owner’s manual. Do it wrong and you may snap off the side panel’s fragile mounting tabs. After removing the screws from the panel’s inner side, gently pull the panel outward until the male pins pull out from the female rubber mounts — and no farther. Next, gently push the panel in a 10 o’clock direction (looking at the bike from the right side) to separate the tabs from their slots on the adjoining panel. When routing the lock’s power cord down the side, don’t be confused by the bars in the drawing, which are Wunderlich tip-over protection.

Disconnect the OEM plug as shown, then insert the two connectors into the two mating plugs from the Wunderlich wire harness. In the USA, top-of-the-line RT’s with central locking typically also have Sirius satellite radio. The satellite antenna must be removed from its mounting bracket and placed on the frame of the Wunderlich lock on a pre-mounted adhesive pad. I found an old set of feeler gauges were rigid enough to cut through the adhesive and flexible enough to not damage the antenna. You’ll have to remove the OEM antenna bracket, as the Navigator Lock needs to occupy that space. This step wasn’t in the supplied instructions, but it became clear during reassembly that the bracket had to go. Pull up at either end and wiggle it out. Peel off the release paper to expose the new adhesive on the Wunderlich frame and stick on the antenna. Test the Navigator Lock to confirm it works, then button everything back together.

The Wunderlich Navigator Lock works as described, disabling/enabling the RT’s GPS release mechanism using the bike’s central locking feature. For $219.95 and a couple hours in installation time, you get a handy and worthwhile feature that BMW should have provided in the first place.

For more information call (828) 489-3747 or visit wunderlichamerica.com.

Source: RiderMagazine.com

Motorcycle News, News

Warm & Safe Cyber Hot Seat | Gear Review

April 22, 2020 mcnews Leave a comment

Warm & Safe Cyber Hot Seat installed on a KTM 790 Adventure.

Heated seats are something of a luxury item on motorcycles (though more and more common in passenger vehicles), and not all of us can afford or want to add an aftermarket heated seat to our bike(s) if not originally equipped. Enter the Cyber Hot Seat from Warm & Safe, a heated seat pad designed to fit just about any motorcycle or scooter. Installation on our KTM 790 Adventure test bike was fairly straightforward, and accessing the battery terminals on the KTM to attach the pigtail was the toughest part — certainly not the fault of Warm & Safe. The pad itself attaches with hook-and-loop straps that run under the seat; the power cable that plugs into the pigtail runs off the right front strap. Once strapped on, I was concerned that the pad would slip around, especially when mounting/dismounting, but the grippy print on the underside kept it firmly in place.

There are three heat levels (plus off), controlled with a big button built into the front center of the pad; it lights up red (high), white (medium) and blue (low) in that order to indicate heat level. The first time I tried the pad I was wearing regular nylon riding pants and the medium setting was plenty hot. But when it’s really cold out I bundle up, so one particularly brisk morning I suited up in denim jeans and the thickest, heaviest-duty piece of riding apparel I own: an Aerostich Roadcrafter 3 suit. Even with those two layers between my skin and the pad, it only took about a minute before I felt the heat of the high setting, and turned it down to medium after a while because it was so warm.

Whether turned on or off, the Cyber Hot Seat is useful as an extra cushioning layer and I didn’t find the inner heating elements to be uncomfortable; in fact I couldn’t really feel them. One important note, however, is that unless you are installing the pad onto a switched circuit in a fuse block, it’s important to remember to turn the pad off when you park, lest you come back to a dead battery. (The Cyber Hot Seat draws 1.3A and 18W at 13.8V.) It comes with the 12V battery pigtail; a 12V cigarette adaptor, 12V Euro plug adaptor, 7.4V battery, 7.4V adaptor cable and other accessories are also available. Suggested retail is $149.95, but as of print time for this review it’s been on-sale online for $99.95.

For more information, call (702) 357-8664 or visit warmnsafe.com.

Source: RiderMagazine.com

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