The Motorcycle Gear Store

Motorcycle Enthusiast Information


The Classic American Garment

Author: BikerBabe
March 8, 2010

motorcycle jacketsIn American culture, motorcycle jackets are more than just another garment of clothing. The leather jacket and the motorcycle are inextricably tied together, and this relationship has given the leather jacket certain connotations. The motorcycle is emblematic of personal freedom and a fondness for counterculture.

Although the motorcycle jacket has a certain mystique, it is important to remember that it also serves pragmatic purposes. Leather provides an effective layer of protection against virtually any element, including the wind. It is also an powerful extra layer of protection in the event of a crash.


Switching to Two Wheels

Author: BikerBabe
February 23, 2010

leather saddle bagDue to soaring fuel prices and environmental concerns, I recently decided to trade in my pickup truck for a motorcycle. For the most part, I love the advantages to riding a bike. I’m already saving hundreds a month on gas, and it is fun to ride.

The one main drawback to the motorcycle has been transporting goods around. For large items I usually just ask one of my friends to help me out, but even going to the grocery store posed a problem. I recently invested in a leather saddle bag so that I have some extra storage space for all of my stuff.


Heading South

Author: BikerBabe
February 9, 2010

leather motorcycle vestEver since I turned 18, a motorcycle has been my main means of conveyance. Living in the Midwest, this posed some obstacles during the winter months, but I always managed to get by. My company recently transferred me to New Mexico, and although I loved Chicago, it hasn’t taken long for me to acclimate.

One of the things I love about it down here is that the weather is always ideal for riding my bike. In fact, it sometimes is even to hot for me to don my traditional leather jacket—not that I am complaining. I recently invested in a leather motorcycle vest, so now I can ride in comfort and safety regardless of the weather.


January 26, 2010

46769784-S-1Many novice motorcycle riders feel like the only major accessory needed is a helmet, but there are actually a host of items that can accompany these helmets. If you’re cruising down the highway at any significant speed, it can be surprisingly cold. Even on a warm day, the wind will make it feel drastically colder, which is why it’s a good idea for every motorcycle enthusiast to invest in some additional motorcycle helmet accessories.

These accessories can come in a variety of forms, but the most common items are additional gear to keep warm. Whether it’s raining, snowing, or sunny outside, you can increase the comfort of wearing a helmet by purchasing some headwear. This can include everything from a basic beanie to a leather head wrap. The majority of heat escapes through our head, which is why hats are so effective for keeping us warm. They can also add some cushion, so wearing the helmet for prolonged amounts of time will be more comfortable. If your helmet doesn’t have a visor, it is also advisable to invest in some motorcycle glasses.


Learning the Ropes

Author: BikerBabe
January 12, 2010

0910_hbkp_04_z+replace_motorcycle_drive_belt+starter_boltsBefore I met my boyfriend the only thing that I knew about motorcycles was what womens motorcycle chaps I was going to wear for the ride—I had no idea what a starter or any other of the central components of the vehicle were. He is a huge Harley enthusiast and is always working on his motorcycles. He has two of them; one vintage Harley and a newer Kawasaki. The other day we were headed out for an afternoon ride and the stupid Harley wouldn’t start.

I thought maybe the motorcycle was out of gas or that the battery was dead. But my boyfriend told me that the tank was full and the battery was good. He said it was a problem with the starter. We took the bike over to his friend’s house. This guy was a genius with bike starters and had it fixed in no time.


Get Creative with Your Gifts

Author: BikerBabe
December 22, 2009

motors-9Sometimes it’s frustrating knowing a person with a really avid hobby. After all, it seems like it should be so easy to find them a gift, but if they’ve been interested in their hobby for several years, it’s very likely that they have everything they need. Avid motorcyclists, for example, are probably already stocked with all the motorcycle clothing and accessories they could ever need. Their rooms are probably stuffed with helmets, gloves, chaps, riding boots, and more.

That’s why people who know motorcyclists just have to get a little more creative with their gifts. For anyone who wants to give their motorcycle buddy something to think about, give them a copy of “Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance.” The book deals with the mindset and lifestyle of motorcycle enthusiasts, and it will give your friend something a little more philosophical and intellectual to consider than a new pair of riding chaps.


December 8, 2009

textile motorcycle jacketIf you’re going to ride a motorcycle, it’s imperative that you do so in a smart and prepared way. To that end, before you ever venture to the freeway or main roads, make sure that you’re fully able to control the bike. If you’re still shaky, it’s not the best idea to commute with semis yet. You should also have all the necessary motorcycle apparel. This includes safety gear as well as more general clothing needs.

While there are many necessary items, you never want to forget your textile motorcycle jacket. This will protect you from minor scrapes and bruises if you take a tumble at a very low speed. These kinds of jackets will also keep you warm in rain, cold, or other adverse weather conditions. And while it should only be a secondary reason for selecting a piece of motorcycle apparel, you can also find many options that are extremely stylish and attractive.


November 23, 2009

WomensJackets

As a woman, pursuing my favorite hobby hasn’t always been easy. Riding motorcycles has traditionally been considered a man’s game, but I’m always eager to accept a challenge and shatter a few glass ceilings if need be. When I bought my first Harley and started riding around the town with friends, I caught some initial flak. One jerk even asked me why I wasn’t riding in a sidecar.

Over time, however, the guys started to accept me as one of them. I bought an assortment of womens motorcycle jackets online and even took a cross-country road trip last summer. Nothing appeals to me more than the wide open road ahead of me and vast expanses of scenic country flying by on all sides. These days I hardly care what the men think of me. All that matters is that I’m living life on my own terms.


November 9, 2009

LeatherPants

Few would deny that there’s something unmistakably cool about the clothing motorcyclists wear. From the intimidating leather jackets to the shiny black boots, style is clearly a consideration for most bikers. On the other hand, there are substantial reasons why motorcycle enthusiasts make certain clothing choices before hitting the road. If you think leather motorcycle pants and chaps are just for show, you’d better think again.

While it’s obvious that riding a motorcycle is potentially dangerous, you might not guess that most of the injuries suffered are to the lower body. That’s why a good pair of riding boots and a protective layer of leather on the legs are essential. The best motorcycle pants feature some reinforcement in the knee and hip regions – the spots most likely to come in contact with the ground should the rider be thrown off.


The Bare Necessities

Author: BikerBabe
October 26, 2009

motorcycle-gogglesOne of the classic traditions of Americana is the cross-country motorcycle ride. It has become a symbol of freedom and a rite of passage for many. When planning for your excursion, it can be easy to overlook some basic necessities.

As anyone who lives in the Midwest or near farmland will tell you, bugs can create a mess on windshields of highway vehicles. When you are on a motorcycle, your face often has to endure the elements as well. Be sure you are prepared with a quality pair of motorcycle goggles to prevent arrant bugs from crashing your cross-country party.