We were fortunate to receive the brand new Helite Turtle 2 on loan from Helite to test. It was too big for me, so I didn’t ride-test it, but I did get to try out detonating (is that the right word?) a cartridge while wearing it. It really does provide nearly instant neck stabilization and […]
Gear Reviews
Gear Review: Icon Airflite Inky Helmet
For the first time in a long time, I have two brand new lids. One was a planned replacement of my 5 year old Shoei GT Air, and one was a purely spontaneous purchase because, well, tentacles. Introducing the Icon Airflite Inky! General fit I’ve been commuting with this lid for about a week now. […]
New Gear Inbound: Shoei GT-Air II Redux!
It’s time to replace my trusty Shoei GT-Air (just checked the label, and it rolled off the production line in February 2014). I’m a bit of a data nerd, and over the life of my lid, I’ve worn it at least 843 days. With an initial purchase price of $610, that works out to a […]
Gear Review: Racer Gloves Tour FHH Winter Glove
This season called for a shiny new pair of winter riding gloves (I’d worn a hole in the left thumb of my BMW two-in-one gloves, which might mean I’m a little too aggressive when I turn on my turn indicators…). I’ve been really happy with Racer gloves for my summer riding, and decided to give […]
First Impressions: The Cardo/JBL PackTalk System Partnership
Helmet audio systems are sometimes a little controversial. Some folks dig riding while listening to their favorite tunes, podcasts, or audio books. Some folks want to be able to chat with their pillion or with others in their riding group. And others want nothing between the sound of the wind, the engine, and their thoughts. […]
First Impressions: Davida Koura full-face helmet and Speedster v.3 three quarter helmet
Way back before I ever learned how to ride, I had a bit of a fascination with the cafe racer movement in 1960s England. The cool Triumphs, the Ace Cafe, the greasy jackets and white scarves, and of course the iconic Davida helmet. So of course, when I learned how to ride I took a […]
First Look: Magura Hydraulic Clutch
So this little bit of awesome will be going on my bike in the not-too-distant future. My clutch wrist is already excited!
First Look: Aether Apparel Arrow Jacket
Channeling my inner Andrew Eldritch in my new @aetherapparel arrow motorcycle jacket. Just a teaser shot for the full on and off bike review I’ll be writing up soon! #greatlookingmotorbikegear #offandonthemoto #aetherapparel #redhairandblackleather (at Portland, Oregon)
Obsessing Over Gear I (don’t) Need
I’ve been not-so-quietly obsessing over Aether Apparel’s Arrow Motorcycle Jacket since it launched. It’s expensive (and looks it) but also a pretty ridiculously sexy AND protective motorbike jacket that wouldn’t look out of place going out for a night on the town. Did I say it’s expensive? Like the list price on my helmet isn’t […]
First Impressions: Aether Apparel Horizon Jacket
You know that feeling. You don’t really NEED new gear, but you’ve always wanted a jacket in a certain color and you just kind of keep an eye out for one. Yeah. That feeling. That’s been me, just kind of keeping an eye out for a sorta casual olive green motorbike jacket. There aren’t many […]