Equipment
My Recommendations
If you are just starting your own journey on bike, then let me help you out by providing you with a list of items that have been absolute lifesavers!
Gloves are gloves, right? Maybe. Some gloves make my hands sweat, especially during the summer. Some don’t provide enough movement or grip. Some don’t allow me to change the radio station or use the phone navigation. These don’t make me sweat, they are lightweight, and I have full function and control. Not great in cold weather, but a still a solid, inexpensive, basic glove.
Frogg Toggs Wet Weather Gear The best of the best in wet weather gear. Frogg Toggs are lightweight and easily slip over the clothes providing a breathable insulation against rain. They are thin enough to not cause sweating but hardy enough to provide the perfect amount of body warmth while driving in the rain.
Bandanas: Our scalps sweat, and sweat stinks. While the padding inside of most helmets can be removed and easily washed, a simple bandana provides a layer between head and pad that should prolong the life of the padding making the helmet less stinky thus requiring less washing.
Extra Long Straws: Ever tried drinking a bottle of water on a hot summer day while wearing a helmet? No? That’s because you can’t. Get an extra-long straw for your drinks and stay hydrated all day long.
Burn Protectors: Burn protectors allow riders to wear shorts without burning their legs on the engine. Perfect for hot weather.
Hard Knuckle Fingerless Gloves: Open finger gloves allow easy use of phones, navigation, and radio equipment on your bike. The air holes provide great breathability while the hard knuckles protect against road debris and rocks.
Polarized Sunglasses: The yellow tinting on polarized sunglasses helps brighten the road at night thus increasing visibility. They also protect the eyes from wind and road debris so riders with sensitive eyes or those that wear contacts can feel the wind on their face while still being protected without their face shield down.
Optimate Battery Charger: This charger is a rapid battery charger. Not only can it be used at home to keep a full charge while not riding your motorcycle, but it will jump a dead battery too. Small enough to fit in a saddle bag or trunk. Never leave home without one.
Bungee Cords: A very inexpensive must-have for those with passenger arm rests or those carrying coolers or luggage. Few things are more annoying than flailing armrests at 70 mph or poorly secured bags.
Foot Pegs: We’ve learned that a wider surface area is much more important than looks. The wider platform provides less stress and pressure on the feet. These are super easy to self-install.
Portable Solar Battery Pack: Always have a constant charge. Strap it to the top of your bag and let the sun charge your charger as you drive. PS this baby is also a flashlight. You’re welcome.
Life Straw Water Bottle: Don’t ever get stuck without clean water. Long distance riding takes us through some beautiful, uninhabited areas. This water bottle has a built-in super filter that removes bacteria, dirt, and silt. With Life Straw you will never be without drinkable water.