Sundry

These tough, yet lightweight mechanics gloves fit like a second skin and wear like iron. Air-infused nitrile palm-coating for exceptional gription on oily surfaces. Shaped to be über flexible, comfortable and extremely durable. When the dirty part of the job is done, these digit protectors are machine washable too. Gloves have a smooth black coating and are suitable for abrasive work. Black. M, L, XL.

How about riding out your own back door for high adventure and long distances on just an average smallish bike and with some simple luggage and gear? Is it possible to travel unsupported and independently in such a manner? Yes, and the experience of traveling this way captures the most time-honored essences of motorcycling.

This book consists of 14 pages of summary text, with the balance arranged into appendices that cover such topics as food, improvised repairs, helpful resources for further information, useful websites, state-by-state listings of good roads, and bike-friendly hangouts.

Detailed examples of gear and its organization are based on real-life experience and offered as a starting point for your own trips. It fits readily in a pocket or tank bag and contains a distillation of experience, and information that will be a useful starting point for the beginning lightweight motorcycle tourist as well as a handy reference for an experienced rider. Saddle-stitched, 4"×6", 84 pp., b/w illus.

Explains in plain English the principles behind electrical systems and how they work – and how to test, evalu ate, and troubleshoot your gremlins. A very helpful, detailed, well-written and concise guide for the weekend mechanic and experienced professional alike. By Tracy Martin. Softbound, 8.25"×10.5", 151 pp., b/w & color illus.

This one is FUN! Several really neat short stories, and believe-it-or not a bunch of straightforward well-crafted poetry that will make you smile even if you’ve never ever-ever met a poem you’ve liked before. This is real, authentic moto-life from the inside, humbly written in a no-apologies, kick-ass bluntly funny style, by a long-time racer, mechanic and motorcycle shop business guy from the Bay Area. He’s literate as hell and calls them all just as they are, from cycle-bums, bikes and racers encountered, to the everyday moto-life experiences you’ll absolutely recognize.

A self-published little gem, filled with memories of working on and racing motorcycles at Daytona and a plethora of people and moto-related musings along the way. A great cover-to-cover bedtime, road trip or (…ahem) bathroom read. By Ed Milich. Softbound. 5.5"×8.25", 92 pp., b/w illus.

Drive head-on into the magnificent, maddening, mysterious world of transportation. Thousands, even millions, of miles are embedded in everything we do and touch. We live in a door-to-door universe that works so well most Americans are scarcely aware of it. And yet, everyday we suffer grinding commutes, a violent death every fifteen minutes, a dire injury every twelve seconds, and crumbling infrastructure. Now, the way we move ourselves and our stuff is on the brink of great change, as a new mobility revolution upends the car culture that, for better and worse, built modern America. A fascinating detective story, investigating the worldwide cast of supporting characters and technologies that have enabled us to move from here to there—past, present, and future. By Edward Humes. Hardbound. 6”x9”, 372 pp.

When in Doubt, Ride Button

Teaching your child to ride is easy, because if they can walk, they can ride. Safe, fun and teaches your child confidence in their balance, coordination and motor skills. Well built construction and thoughtful design makes for fun safe mobility for kids age 2 to 5. Instills the benefits of two-wheel transportation early in your child’s development, preparing them for a lifetime of the social and personal benefits of riding. High-grade steel tubing with wide, stable wheels. Handlebars and padded seat are height adjustable to grow with your child. 7 lbs. Blue, Red or Pink

Makes sense, right?! Riding makes the world a better place. So ride more, ride everywhere and be happy! Purple. 100% cotton. M-XX. Made in America.

Specifically designed to attach to packs and secure smaller items. Durable combination strap features a 10" stretchy rubber core section and a 35" long adjustable 5/8" nylon webbing section with sturdy pass thru loops. Fastex® buckles release quickly and won’t scratch your bikes paint. Adjusts from 12" to 42". Pair of two straps. Black or Green.

Sometimes the sizzle and pop of a steak over an open fire out-serenades a hissing stove. Made of chrome-plated steel, this foldable 12"×6.5" grill is great for when you have something meaty, like steaks, chops, or fish, and want to sear ‘em over a fire. This grill is perfect for spanning said fire and supports medium sized pots and skillets. Folds flat for out of the way packing. Comes with a rugged Cordura storage bag which keeps everything else clean when packed away for travel. 10 oz.

Pendant matches the tread styling of the MC Tire Rings. Connect to your passion or give as a gift to show you understand another’s commitment. American made original designs crafted in .925 Sterling Silver. 38mm x 13mm.

The Compass Signet is cast in oxidized solid sterling silver and the edge of the ring reads 'Omnes Qui Errant Non Pereunt' which translates from Latin to 'Not All That Wander Are Lost', a quote from J.R.R.Tolkien. In addition, the ring is a working wax seal for your personal correspondence and comes with one stick of red sealing wax. Face measures 16.5mm wide x 17mm high. Band tapers from 17.5mm to 5mm. Available in half sizes, from size 4-12.

If you’d like to get more ‘hands on’, but are unsure where to start, this book provides a terrific amount of information on standard techniques used when repairing, overhauling, and fabricating parts. This excellent publication clearly demystifies the processes and methods used by mechanics. Stop reaching for that bigger hammer and see how it’s done properly. By John Fidell and Pete Shoemark. Hardbound, 8.25"×11", 143 pp., b/w illus.

The definitive bible on the best ways to have a better riding and handling machine. Troubleshooting instructions for dirt, street and supermoto provide a solution for virtually every handling problem. In a short time you’ll have a terrific understanding of one of the most misunderstood aspects of motorcycle performance. Will inspire you to make your bike handle like a pro’s. By Paul Thede and Lee Parks. Softbound, 8.25"×10.5", 256 pp., color illus.

In the long hot 'Summer of 88', the author packed up his motorcycle and pulled out of the garage with no destination or return date in mind. Oblivious to world events, he hit the road and never looked back. That trip would consume the entire summer, logging over twelve thousand miles from sea to sea and back. This is the account of that trip, with pictures, maps, historical and geographical notes, and rolling narrative. By Charles Schiereck. Softbound, 5.5”×8.5”, 222 pp., color & b/w illus.

It has been forty years since Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance was first published. Since then, it’s become a modern—and influential—classic. “Zen” is, at its core, about our human and cultural relationships with technology. Part travelogue, part philosophic inquiry and part personal memoir, it is so multi-layered that for its fortieth anniversary, Mark Richardson re-traced the ride, on the same bike, and produced a thoughtful and powerfully enlightening look at the incredible life of the reclusive author, and at the kaleidoscope of elements which make up this extraordinarily complicated work. Here is the stunningly compelling human story behind and within this classic. An amazing, compelling book. By Mark Richardson. Softbound, 6.5"×9.3", 288 pp., no illus.

This is a collection of true stores and adventures that began in the 1950’s and continues to the present day. The tales are both hair-raising and hilarious, spanning many countries. During these journeys, the author traveled on planes, trains and automobiles, as well as on-foot, bicycle, motorbike and by boat (usually as crew or as captain). He had fun with explosives, and skirted armed conflicts. By Den Kaill. Softbound, 6”×9”, 226 pp., b/w photos.

This is rare thing: An actual inspiring overview-of-motorcycling ‘coffee table’ book. Its images will completely transport you into a world-spanning journey with riders of every kind from over thirty different countries. All of the photographs are by the wonderful Argentinian photographer Henry Von Wartenberg and span decades of his explorations, travels, and efforts to present the world’s entire spectrum of riders and places. This book is subdivided into five themed sections. Punctuating the electric quality of the images are captivating section-introducing essays from several thoughtful emissaries of motorcycling, including Peter Egan, Paul d’Orleans, Andy Goldfine and Dave Nichols. This is truly a wonderful gift for any rider. Hardcover. 192 pages. Color photos. 9.5”x11”.

Sneak Peek: Read Andy's essay on our blog »

Create your own ode to the open road, haiku to the highway, or canto to your commute with these inspiring kits with a selection of over 200 magnetized words and word fragments. Stick them to your fridge, locker, toolbox, gas tank or any steel surface. Unleash your inner poet or strategically place an inspirational quote. Each tile is 3/8” tall, length varies by word. Choose Route 66 or Bike Lover kits, or get both to exponentially expand your magnetic vocabulary.

If you only own one bag for your bike, this should be it. Unfold in a second and you’ll get 1100 cubic inches of load space with the Hide-Away Tail Trunk. Featuring an integral bungee cord mounting system, dual accessory D-rings and a 2" web carrying handle, all in an easy-to carry package that folds into a built-in zippered storage pouch. Made from durable 400 denier Pac-Cloth. Fully Expands to 10"×14"×9". Folded Size 5.25"×8.25"×3.25". Black.

A waterproof piggyback pocket that attaches to the Kriega R15, R20, R25, R35, US-20, and Hydro 3 packs for an additional 610 cubic inches carrying capacity. It also doubles as a tailpack for your motorcycle. External shock-cord compression straps keep things compacted and tidy. 8"×14"×9".

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With its big 3.25’ SpeedSafe-equipped blade, this classic design was built for those who just demand more from their pocket knife. Built of pure stainless steel coated with matte-grey titanium carbo-nitride for a no-fuss look that lets the design shine through. Designed to be a sturdy knife that’s still aesthetically pleasing and feels good in the hand. Offers a tough frame lock with lockbar stabilization and ambidextrous stud opening for fast and easy one-handed opening. Slim design rides comfortably in a pocket thanks to deep-carry clip. Length: Open 7.75”, Closed 4.4”. Weight 5.5 oz.

Use every electrostatic screen controlled device with your riding gloves on. Rows of electro-conductive stitching exactly where needed let you scroll, dial, pinch-zoom, browse and navigate normally.

The Ropers themselves are the same as the model #420.

Modern techno-function meets old school comfort and performance. Full and half sizes 8-12 (not available in 11.5). Natural. Made in America

Touch-Screen Elkskin Roper User Guide

Other Reviews

Aerostich Elkskin Competition Ropers – Gloves Review – The Motorcycle Obsession

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Now pay attention 007. These roll-up, fold-out aluminum tables will keep your martini and potted shrimp off the dirt and pine needles that comprise the ground cover at so many unimproved campsites, rally and race sites, and “off the beaten path” places without campground amenities like picnic tables. Admittedly a bit decadent at first glance, but quite practical and handy in use. The two person Macro is 24"×18" with longer 15" fold-out legs to keep your stuff even higher off the ground. It packs to 3"×5"×24", and weighs 4.7 lbs.

"The luxuries and elegances practicable in tent life are only limited by the means of transport. Julius Caesar, who was a great campaigner, carried parquets of wooden mosaic for his floors! The articles that make the most show for their weight are handsome rugs, skins and pillows; canteens of dinner and coffee services and candles with screens of glass or other arrangements to prevent them from flickering."

A balance of classic and contemporary styling in a rugged, no-compromise resin case watch that sports a long list of performance features. Durable poly-resin frame is water resistant to 50m (164 feet), and houses a precision Japan-made quartz analog time keeper, protected by a hardened, scratch-resistant mineral glass crystal.

Choose from Black or White dials with easy to read 12/24 hour luminous hands and markers. One piece military spec 7/8" nylon band with unbreakable stainless steel hardware. 3 year battery life. 1.3" Face Dia.

White face/ Olive drab band #2163
Black face / Black case / Black band #2164

Besides being a great belt pack or side pocket add-on, it’s the perfect organizer bag for your wallet, checkbook, glasses…within your tank bag. Two zippered pockets and a hook & loop belt attachment tunnel across its backside. Black Cordura®. 5"×8.5"×3".

A little known but brilliant tool for carrying stuff on a motorcycle. Functions like a cargo net, cleaner and easier to use. Self-stores into a built-in zipper pouch only a bit larger than a pack of cigarettes. Much easier to pack, too. Two adjustable bungee cords are contained in a square of strong nylon jersey mesh fabric. Carry in a pocket or tool compartment and be ready to haul a 12-pack, watermelons, pumpkins or bundles of firewood. Nice zipped pouch. Really is a “save your life” tool for carrying stuff. Black. 11"×8.5".

Like the Batmobile, this bag features a tough exterior and is loaded with awesome features that will help you on your next adventure. The breathable, adjustable shoulder straps and sternum strap for added stabilization make it comfortable to wear. Made with machine washable recycled ripstop fabric. Two side bottle pockets and storage area for a hydration reservoir ensure you stay hydrated all day long. When not in use, it can easily be pouched into its front pocket and clipped back onto your utility belt for another day. 915 cu in (15L) capacity. 10”x17”x6” expanded, 8”x6” stored in pouch. Weighs 7.2 oz. Black.

This police-spec super bright LED light clips onto pockets for concealed, hands-free operation. Its pivoting light arm closes flat when not in use. The first push of its On/Off button triggers the 10 lumen red LED, perfect for preserving night vision. A second push of the button activates a bright white LED for normal reading or hands-free lighting where you need it. Equipped with a 10 minute auto-off battery saving timer and continual Safety Strobe for situations when you need to be seen. Note: For low-profile shirt or suit pocket use backside clip removes. Operates for up to 40 hours continuously. 3"×.9". 1 oz.

Tried-and-true tips and tricks to make the most out of your motorcycle, from navigating city streets on the daily commute, to on-the-fly emergency roadside repairs, maintenance advice and choosing proper riding gear, this comprehensive guide covers 291 essential moto related skills.

Assembled by the experts at Cycle World magazine and filled with insider knowledge and real-world advice intended to get the most out of every ride. Covers gear, riding, maintenance and repair for commuters, touring riders, off-road dirt fiends and all riders in-between. We could write a book like this…but, since we haven’t (yet), this is a solid collection, worth adding to the library. By Mark Lindemann. Softbound, 256 pp., color illus.

Ultralight and incredibly useful for all kinds of on-the-road food-prepping, as well as great for home kitchen work. This near-unknown knife is one of the lightest most versatile folding titanium folding knives in the world (maybe the lightest of all?). It is made in Japan by craftsmen dedicated to the highest standards of precision and quality. Hold it in your hand and you can feel it’s been informed by and intended for surgically cutting sushi...Or in your case probably an apple, or potato or whatever else food-wise needs to be dealt with. Yes, of course it will whittle a stick into a pointy stick, but this one is mostly about neatly dicing and slicing foodstuffs with great precision and ease. It’s fast. So sharp if you are a haute-cuisine chef and know how, you can do tricks with it.

The 3.9” solid Titanium blade is scientifically proven to be one of the sharpest available, offering superior edge retention, light weight, rust resistance, antibacterial qualities, and flexibility. Blade locks for secure use. An exceptional knife with multi-use applications. You won’t believe how great this works on food until you experience it. Or how light it is and how good it handles. So lightweight and sharp in use it feels scalpel-like. Length: Open 8.5” , Closed 4.6”. Weight: 1.4 oz.

Simply a row of super bright red LEDs made to be attached directly to the top or bottom of your license plate using the same mounting holes. Connect to your brake light wires and you’re ready to wake up anyone following a little too close behind you, day or night. No rear end worries. In addition to the brake light feature of the Stopper, the Versa Light version looks the same but also functions as a running light and turn signal indicator. Clearly indicate your intentions. 7"×.75".

More than just an extremely sharp, flexible and sturdy all-around knife, but the handle also contains a fire starter integrated into the end cap of the handle. Hardened stainless steel half-tang fixed 3.9” blade with a comfort grip rubberized handle. Durable polypropylene sheath protects the blade while stored and includes a clip for wearing or storing nearby for easy access. One knife with many uses, you can clean a fish, remove a splinter, split kindling...and light a campfire with one handy tool. 8.7” overall length. 3.3 oz. Black or Green.

Housing a total of 10 components including a hard-cased, black coated, stainless steel assisted blade and powerful Compound Leverage geared pliers, the Reactor proves to be a great folding knife and multi-tool. A quick push of the thumb stud propels the 2.5” blade open and ready for action. Fits firmly and securely in a hand. Tucking the blade back in and flipping the handle reveals the patented Compound Leverage pliers. The SOG-exclusive gearing doubles the grasping force of the jaws for more powerful grip and to reduce stripped hardware. Also includes bottle opener, wire cutter, flat and phillips screwdrivers, crimper, 1/4” hex bit driver, needle noes pliers, pocket clip and lanyard hole. Closed length 3.8”, overall length 6.3”. 4.1 oz.

This durable fob will likely outlast anything on your keychain. The internal strontium aluminate pellet absorbs light, the longer the exposure time and the higher the light intensity, the longer and brighter it will glow. Attach the fob to your keys or a flashlight, so you can always find them when the lights are out. Attach to a jacket or tent door as a zipper pull, or clip to a backpack or tankbag. Glows for up to 12 hours. 6A1-4V titanium housing with a uniform bead blasted matte finish. Includes 7/16th” diameter split ring and snap clip for attaching to other items. 1.58"×.35". Weighs 4.5 grams (.16 oz.).

An advanced high-power light transforms from a work light to a lantern and a flashlight all in one. Retractable base stabilizers provide added stability for standing it up, even on uneven surfaces. Magnetic base also provides convenient options for hands-free lighting options. Durable water and impact resistant construction, made from anodized aircraft-grade aluminum. Choose the style and brightness of light to fit your needs: 110 Lumen Work Light, 250 Lumen Lantern or 3400 LUX LED Flashlight. Glove friendly side-positioned ON/OFF button. Powered by 4 AA batteries (included). 8"×2.4".