Andy Cherney
Former Editor
Favorite Bike
Harley Davidson XR1200
There have been only a handful of newsworthy bike launches this year (Andy hadn't seen the Fury yet), but Harley's reimagining of 1970's mind-bending (at the time) XR750 is sure to be one of the most talked about. The 2009 XR1200 pushes all the right primal buttons ('course, I have yet to sample the new VMAX) and my biggest beef is, what took so long?
Favorite Bike Supplement
Motion Pro Tool Kit
Since I've ejected from the Mother Ship, I've found myself addressing bike repairs on a way more personal level. Which means I've been accessing the MP Tool kit a lot. It's a handy addition to the saddle bag for on-road repairs too-it can handle 8, 10, 12 and 14mm size bolts, Phillips screws, straight-slot screws and the odd Allen bolt. And it's a real boon for popping open bottles of post-ride cerveza...
Favorite Riding Gear
Icon Superduty 3
When it comes to touring footwear, I'm not a fan of single-purpose pieces-they tend to feel awkward off the bike. Hence my glee with Icon's Superduty 3. This lightweight street boot gives me the goods without looking (and feeling) like a friggin astronaut. Serious all-day comfort, decent ankle protection and a locking buckle make for a happy medium between shoes and full-on riding boots. I wear them all the time-not just on the bike.
Favorite Ride
Columbia River Gorge
Now that my base is Stumptown, I'm inclined to revel in roads north of the 43rd parallel. There's no shortage of scenics up here, but the patch of asphalt that gets my nod is a sublime stretch down the Columbia River Gorge. I'm talking about the Columbia River Highway (not I-84)! There's plenty of turns and incredible scenery along in this world-class route; it's an "All-American Road" as designated by the DOT.
Favorite Ride Accessory
Moto-Maps
These things are three years old, but I still think they're the cat's meow. Keith Myers struck a nerve when he released these pocket sized, laminated backroad travel guides back in 2005. The mini-maps serve up a variety of scenic rides with turn-by-turn directions and points of interest that just dare you to make up your own ride. And I have.