Need to find that perfect gift for that special motorcyclist? You can be pretty sure that there are at least a couple of items somewhere in this collection—assembled for our December 2004 issue—that will delight your favorite motrcycle enthusiast. The number of items in this article is a little smaller than that which appeared in the original print version because some of those original products are no longer available.
Chopped Choppers
If you can't afford the real steel, RC2 Corporation's miniatures might be a good substitute to put in the stocking. These 1:10- and 1:18-scale die-cast bike models come from the Discovery Channel's number-one-rated show, American Chopper, in an ultra-cool, mini-custom form. Choose from the popular Jet Bike (Photo 1), Fire Bike, Commanche, T-Rex Softail, Black Widow (Photo 2), or Miss Lucy. Suggested retail price for the 1:18-scale models is $8, while the 1:10-scale models go for $25. Available at Discovery Channel and Target outlets nationwide.
Custom Clothes
Maybe you can't ride everyday, but you can show your pride anytime with these high-quality short-sleeve shirts (Photo 3) by Custom Cycle Cafe. They're professionally silk-screened full-color garments featuring heavy-duty preshrunk 100 percent cotton with double-stitched neck sleeves and bottom--no cheap iron-ons here. Choose from a variety of designs, featuring Valkyrie, Road Star, Sabre, Vulcan and A.C.E graphics, starting at $20. Order 'em at www.customcyclecafe.com or www.jpcycles.com.
Back Pal
Everyone needs a friend during the holidays, so why not make it a comfortable one? Biker's Friend, a round sissybar bag with an integrated backrest (Photo 4) made just for cruisers, may just fit the bill. The waterproof, synthetic leather case has a crushproof hard-shell core and comes with a lumbar roll that attaches to a padded backrest for comfy back support while riding. It installs easily for a secure fit on virtually any motorcycle and comes in small, medium, large and extra large sizes for $180-$220. Check out Biker's Friend at www.bikersfriend.com.
Go For The Dough
Set the seasonal tone and get a nice sugar rush, too, with a cluster of cookies from Cookies By Design (Photo 5). We're partial to the cruiser-themed confections; the individually wrapped doughballs go for $6.50, and a specially wrapped bouquet of six runs $47. Visit www.cookiesbydesign.com to order or to locate a store near you.
Shoulder Holder
Backpacks may be good for long-hauling, but messenger bags are more up our alley for around-town jaunts. Chrome's Citizen messenger bag (Photo 6) is a midsize all-conditions pack big enough for all the essentials you find yourself humping around in the day-to-day grind. The 22 x 11.5 x 6-inch dimensions and 1200 cubic inches of volume include 1000-denier nylon construction, a weatherproof PVC liner and an EVA foam-padded shoulder strap. $96 in a plethora of color options. Visit www.chromebags.com.
Put A Lid On It
Treat your shiny shell with the respect it deserves with the Condor Helmet Hanger (Photo 7). It's made from 18-inch hot-rolled steel that's coated and rubber-edged so it won't scratch paint. The universal hanger works over doors, clothes rods and even your tent trusses at the track, while the mount-type hanger mounts on doors and trailer and garage walls, etc. $30 at Whitehorse Press: www.whitehorsepress.com.
Wristed And Relaxed
You've probably seen this simple cruise-control device (Photo 8) in many forms over the years, but now RyKel Industries has perfected, patented and reintroduced it as the CrampBuster—because after all this time, simple is still usually better, and at $11 a pop, it won't break the bank. Just spring the CrampBuster open and slip it on your grip for reduced wrist fatigue. You can find it in two sizes, 1-inch or 118-inch diameter, at local motorcycle shops or at www.crampbuster.com.
Look Out, Here She Comes
A cheeky press release informed us that "Girls ride too, and better than ever!" This new product line (Photo 9) is apparently designed for the "fearless femme fatale who breathes the open road and fast rides" (sound familiar, Jamie?). The shirts, hats, pants and bike accessories boast logos like, "I Ride Better Than Boys, DEAL WITH IT," and come in every size and shape. The crew tee shown goes for $26, and is available at www.motorsportdirect.com.
Clever Coat
Ring in the new year with a brand-new Powershift jacket (Photo 10) from Power Trip. With its cowhide and nylon outer and removable air-intake panels, you'll be sitting pretty for only $300. High-density armor, a waterproof liner and an adjustable waist also give you a step up on Santa's frilly frock. See www.power-trip.com for specs, sizes and ordering information.
Jfold? Yeah, Jyou?
Most of us are still carrying lumpy black leather in our pockets, just like Dad used to--right? If you're looking to break out of the boring black rectangle syndrome, J.Fold's new bercool Sportswallet (Photo 11) might be the way to go. The 100 percent leather, colorful cash carriers feature sportscar, vintage sneaker and classic sportswear designs, and each unit comes packed in a glossy metal tin. The Sportswallet retails for $35-$45. Browse designs online at www.jfold.com or find them at select retailers across the country.
Better Than CHiPs
Forget Ponch and Jon; ex-motor cop Jerry Palladino has put together a far more effective method of helping you hone your maneuvering skills. The training ideas Palladino showcases in his "Ride Like a Pro" video (Photo 12) are the same as those used by law enforcement motorcycle officers, and his Ride Like a Pro for the Ladies video proves that the size and strength of the rider has no bearing on her skills. Both are available in either VHS or DVD format for $30 at www.whitehorsepress.com.
For Good Measure
Compact tools are the name of the game for road trips, and Roadgear's brand-new Hi-Tec Digital Tire Gauge (Photo 13) is the right combo of nifty performance and condensed travel size. Get quick air adjustments in tight spots with the 90-degree valve and view half-pound increments on the easy-to-read display. The lifetime lithium battery never needs replacement, and a retractable measurement tool allows you to calculate tire life. An included sleeve protects the gauge while on the road. Get it for $20 at www.roadgear.com.
You Let The Dawgs Out
We hear wet roads, cold nights and in-your-face updrafts will be things of the past once you outfit your ride with Desert Dawgs motorcycle chaps (Photo 14). These bike add-ons claim to keep your feet and legs warm and dry without a bulky fairing. Options include plain or chrome studded, with additional modules for maps, sunglasses, pocketbooks, palm pilots, etc. The Dawgs go on easy and accommodate all standard footpeg settings. They're available in several sizes and styles for $80-$107 at www.leadermotorcycle.com.
Lid Loader
Tired of luggin' your lid around in one hand like a purse? Upgrade to Shoei's new Helmet Pack (Photo 15). The soft-lined backpack will hold the largest of helmets safely within a zippered expansion section. A detachable shield case, removable cell-phone attachment, padded shoulder straps, PVC-coated bottom and adjustable waist belt round out the long list of trick features. The water-resistant nylon bag comes in black or black and red and is available at selected dealers or from www.shoei.com for $90.
Nothing Neutral About It
Classic items are always in season, and a Victorinox Swiss Army knife qualifies as a true standard-bearer. The latest twist on the old pocketknife is the TimeKeeper (Photo 16), a sweet multi-tool that packs a large blade, bottle opener, screwdriver, wire stripper, patented mini screwdriver, corkscrew, scissors, nail file, Swiss watch (of course), toothpick and (our favorite) a pressurized ballpoint pen into 312 inches, all for $75. You can see all the goodies at www.swissarmy.com or at retailers near youwww.swissarmy.com
For additional evaluations of, comparisons of, and shopping advice for motorcycle gear and accessories, see the Accessories and Gear section of MotorcycleCruiser.com.