Spot Motorcycles » Ila http://www.spotmotorcycles.com Motorcycle Accessories and Apparel Sat, 07 Jan 2012 20:21:06 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.2.1 Tour Master Trinity | Womens Motorcycle Jackets | Quilted Nylon Waterproof http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/tour-master-trinity-womens-motorcycle-jackets-quilted-nylon-waterproof/ http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/tour-master-trinity-womens-motorcycle-jackets-quilted-nylon-waterproof/#comments Mon, 25 Jan 2010 23:28:18 +0000 Ila http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/?p=4750 Tour Master Trinity Riding to work at this time of year has its appeals. You tough out the cold morning, the street still untouched by the warming massage of all those particles of light, and you receive your afternoon reward of a beautiful fall ride past fields and fauna. These are, at least, my circumstances.

Tour Master puts together some fantastic gear for varying weather conditions, and the Trinity women's jacket is no exception to their rule. The 400 denier nylon construction has a Rainguard barrier that is both waterproof and breathable. Vents in the sleeves, chest, and back turn that simple breathability into great gasps of air throughout the jacket to alleviate the effects of hot days.

For inclement weather, the dual wind flaps on the zippers will keep out unwanted air. A zip-out quilted liner is both comfortable and cozy. Hand warmer pockets, in addition to an internal pocket, a chest pocket, and a cell phone pocket, provide a place to put your paws during stops. I must admit, I'll probably never use a hand warmer pockets while that hot engine is right there.

Adjustable sleeve take-up straps, cuffs, and a waist belt ensure that the Trinity will fit your wonderfully unique figure. The lines create an attention-grabbing hourglass appearance. Reflective piping on the arms will also catch some attention. Catching eyes is only part of safety, so the Trinity has CE-approved armor in the elbows and shoulders, and an articulated triple-density back protector.

A wonderful coat for the wet fall, but it probably won't carry you into the freezing cold without some extra padding. Another drawback: it's not leather, but not everyone cares so much about that anymore. It comes in pink, black, light blue, or white for $150.

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]]> http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/tour-master-trinity-womens-motorcycle-jackets-quilted-nylon-waterproof/feed/ 2 Harley-Davidson Trike Cove | Motorcycle Cover Black Fitted 83845-09 http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/harley-davidson-trike-cove-motorcycle-cover-black-fitted-83845-09/ http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/harley-davidson-trike-cove-motorcycle-cover-black-fitted-83845-09/#comments Wed, 20 Jan 2010 23:25:39 +0000 Ila http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/?p=4748 Harley-Davidson Trike Cover There are plenty of bike covers to choose from now that it's bike covering season. Trikes, however, are often neglected the comfort of a well-fitted cover and instead don a frumpy tarp for the winter season. A tarp traps moisture that will contribute to rust and degradation, which is not what you want to find on those first warm days of spring.

Trikes are unusual machines. Every biker movie has at least one token trike. Their unique shape demands a unique cover, and Harley offers such a cover. Constructed of lightweight 300 denier polyester, it resists fading, protects from the elements, and has ample ventilation to prevent moisture. Your windshield will be protected with a scratch-resistant liner, and the cover itself will last longer with the heat resistant exhaust shield panels.

A securing strap works with elastic edges to keep everything tucked in tight, and the double stitched seams give this indoor/outdoor cover longevity. Harley even put a couple of secured openings in this trike cover for those dual antennas that stick out on the back.

The silkscreened Eagle logo might look nice, but even that doesn't seem to convince me to spend $150. You will be able to find trike covers for about $50 less than that from other dealers if you are so inclined. Now, if you have a Harley, you might still want to shop with Harley.

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]]> http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/harley-davidson-trike-cove-motorcycle-cover-black-fitted-83845-09/feed/ 1 Jafrum Saddlebags | Black Leather Cruiser Luggage | Studded 15 x 12 x 7 SD2051 http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/jafrum-saddlebags-black-leather-cruiser-luggage-studded-15-x-12-x-7-sd2051/ http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/jafrum-saddlebags-black-leather-cruiser-luggage-studded-15-x-12-x-7-sd2051/#comments Fri, 15 Jan 2010 23:10:07 +0000 Ila http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/?p=4742 Jafrum Saddlebags Four years ago, I would not risk buying inexpensive bags. Why take a chance at dissatisfaction when you can just drop another $50 and buy some confidence? Well, like I said, that was four years ago, and this old economy ain't what she used to be. Now, I look for every bargain, and I doubt I'll ever go back to investing in a false sense of security.

Jafrum's bags, which have no cleaver names like "Extreme Velocity," are surprisingly inexpensive. Thick cowhide leather is held together by reinforced stitching and a 2-year warranty. Part of that warranty includes a money back guarantee for a full year.

So, now that your mind is at ease, these bags are 15 inches long, 12 inches high, and 7 inches wide. The inside is laminated with rubber, and the outside is chrome studded. Mounting is easy with leather tie-downs and an adjustable center strap. The architecture is made to prevent tire rubbing and flopping.

If you like to compartmentalize and organize, you might want to look at a set of synthetic sport bags. The Jafrum bags are very basic, but they do boast a classic cruiser style that will meld in with any cruiser make.

The two striking most features of these saddlebags are the price and the leather. If you're looking for leather that isn't so expensive that it must have once-shrouded Kobe beef, these may be right for you and your bike.

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]]> http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/jafrum-saddlebags-black-leather-cruiser-luggage-studded-15-x-12-x-7-sd2051/feed/ 2 Reflective Yellow Motorcycle Vest | High Visibility Safety Neon by Yoshimura http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/yoshimura-hi-vis-textile-vest-fluorescent-yellow-safety-vest/ http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/yoshimura-hi-vis-textile-vest-fluorescent-yellow-safety-vest/#comments Sun, 10 Jan 2010 23:04:39 +0000 Ila http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/?p=4739 Yoshimura Hi-Vis Textile Vest Every now and then, when I need to dodge out of the way of a motorist talking on the phone, reading directions, eating, or all three at the same time, I wonder if I bear some responsibility for their obliviousness. Perhaps a really loud outfit would have prevented my nimble show of defensive riding, but then again, I'm not the one munching pizza and singing along with the Dixie Chicks.

Anyone commuting, especially now that short days leave you riding in the dim dawn and tinted twilight, must consider their ride as transportation rather than entertainment. The goal becomes arriving at point B. The Yoshimura Hi-Vis textile vest has no subtlety in declaring your presence when you wear it.

Constructed of breathable poly mesh, this is not for weather or abrasion protection, but to protect you from a cascade of circumstances beginning with ill attention or bad lighting. The 3M Scotchlite reflective areas reinforce the retina smacking power of the fluorescent fabric, either in yellow or orange.

A removable ID holder makes this perfect for anyone who must pass through checkpoints, present a toll pass, or if a cop pulls you over. The vest is designed to military specifications, so the utility of it makes sense.

A zipper front and elastic drawstring sides permit an adjustable fit. The very visibility might also rule this out for some riders, who prefer a more clandestine wardrobe, but then it's up to you to dodge on a dime. On the other hand, the Hi-Vis does offer a sharp, "Kill Bill" look.

Available for $30 to $60, it tends to run small and you may want to buy up a size, especially if you're going to wear it over other gear.

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]]> http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/yoshimura-hi-vis-textile-vest-fluorescent-yellow-safety-vest/feed/ 1 KBC Ed Hardy Motorcycle Helmet | Skull Nomad – Death or Glory http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/kbc-nomad-death-or-glory-open-face-motorcycle-helmet-ed-hardy/ http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/kbc-nomad-death-or-glory-open-face-motorcycle-helmet-ed-hardy/#comments Tue, 05 Jan 2010 23:20:12 +0000 Ila http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/?p=4745 KBC Nomad Death Or Glory The KBC Ed Hardy "Death or Glory" Nomad brings me a weird kind of joy. The Ed Hardy tattoo designs, which don't shirk their responsibility of transmitting a certain disregard for an under-lived life, give this helmet an uncompromising look.

This particular model of the Nomad is in no way subtle, bearing vivid designs on a matte black background without any artificial shadowing or gradation. A strip of red on the strap stands out as the most overt color, and it emphasizes those strap-bound studs.

The appearance is the only reason anyone is going to buy this Nomad over another model. Don't be ashamed -- it's perfectly reasonable to be concerned about looks when there are so many great, DOT approved helmets on the market. What else is there to distinguish them but their style? And this Nomad has style in abundance.

So strong is the style, in fact, that you've probably already made up your mind about this helmet. Regardless of your decision, I will go one with the nitty gritty. The shell is constructed of fiberglass, and the liner is removable and washable.

Attuned to the attitude of those who choose to wear it, this is a bold and ballsy helmet. You are reducing your protection with a skullcap; it's an obvious downside. Maybe you won't fracture your skull, but you could still scrape off your face.

You can also find Ed Hardy's designs on KBC's "Born Free" helmet and their "Dead or Alive" helmet. Riders who have purchased this brain guard have not regretted their investment. Speaking of money, don't pay the $165 list price, because you should be able to find this for about $95 with some shopping around.

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]]> http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/kbc-nomad-death-or-glory-open-face-motorcycle-helmet-ed-hardy/feed/ 1 Frogg Toggs Road Toad Suit | Motorcycle Rain Coat w/ Pants | Waterproof Jacket http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/frogg-toggs-road-toad-suit-motorcycle-rain-coat-w-pants-waterproof-jacket/ http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/frogg-toggs-road-toad-suit-motorcycle-rain-coat-w-pants-waterproof-jacket/#comments Wed, 30 Dec 2009 22:56:55 +0000 Ila http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/?p=4736 Frogg Toggs Road Toad Suit The necessary evil of rain gear has come into its season. Sure, there are summer torrents, but a hearty rider can grit her teeth and tough it out 'til the next stop. In these cold days, the wet leads to a chill that extracts all the joy from a ride except for perhaps a little pride in being able to bull your way through it.

Frogg Toggs Road Toad rain gear is a full set of breathable polypropylene apparel. Of course, they are waterproof and cinch around the wrists, waist, and ankles to create a reliable fit. There is waterproof taping over seams, so you won't get seepage around the stitches.

Made to wear over your other gear or a big fluffy sweatshirt, Toggs are lightweight. There is a pocket pass-through so you won't be cut off from your wallet, and the hood zips off. The hood is designed to go under your helmet, but I've never found that to work very well. Maybe my helmet is too snug.

I don't see much rain on sunny days, so Frogg Eyzz technology is included, which is Frogg Toggs' reflective piping to enhance visibility. Available in black or gray, I recommend the gray if you want to increase your chance of being seen. The Road Toad suit is compact, and you can probably find a place in your bags for it.

The whole suit costs around $60, but there are some pretty serious drawbacks. The zipper is not well made, which can completely negate the function of rain gear. Also, Frogg Toggs seriously neglected biker specific needs, such as heat shielding; your pipes will melt right through these.

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]]> http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/frogg-toggs-road-toad-suit-motorcycle-rain-coat-w-pants-waterproof-jacket/feed/ 0 Alpinestars Windstopper Gloves | Black Leather Nylon C-1 http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/alpinestars-windstopper-gloves-black-leather-nylon-c-1/ http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/alpinestars-windstopper-gloves-black-leather-nylon-c-1/#comments Mon, 28 Dec 2009 22:40:02 +0000 Ila http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/?p=4733 Alpinestars Windstopper Gloves Alpinestars' C-1 Windstopper gloves caught my eye for the very reason they shouldn't have. They are surprisingly humble, coming from their otherwise ostentatious Alpinestars roots. There's nothing showy or striking about the C-1. I dare say they look generic, but Alpinestars has not overlooked their function.

Constructed of thick Windstopper nylon for insulation, the C-1 gloves have a leather palm that maintains grip in all conditions and saves the nerve-rich flesh of your palms from abrasion.

Anyone who knows the construction of most of Alpinestars gear won't be surprised by the hard knuckle protection that resides under a layer of nylon. The fingers are padded with 3 mm EVA, which is enough to dull impact but not impede movement. The C-1 gloves are water resistant and windproof. These are designed for chilly rides, and even Wisconsin winter riders sing their praises.

So, where do these fall short? I already mentioned the low-key look. They are more akin to Alpinestars underwear rather than outerwear. There is nothing eye-catching about these gloves. At $80, the price is not an attractive feature either. These do shine when the sun is not, and if you're not superficial, you may find that these will carry you in comfort from October to April.

If you want a look that's not as low-key, try the Alpinestars Octane gloves.

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]]> http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/alpinestars-windstopper-gloves-black-leather-nylon-c-1/feed/ 1 Biker Access Men’s Vest, Thermal Insulated | Lined Black Leather Laced http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/biker-access-mens-black-leather-vest-lined-w-side-laces/ http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/biker-access-mens-black-leather-vest-lined-w-side-laces/#comments Fri, 18 Dec 2009 23:37:10 +0000 Ila http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/?p=4709 Biker Access Mens Black Leather Vest Because I ride, I get a lot of questions about biker culture. It's as if people think there's some kind of handbook that comes with the bike about being a big bad biker babe. One of these questions was about vests and why they're so popular in the riding community.

I'm sure they wanted some tale of intrigue and secret handshakes, but all I could tell them was, "core body temperature." You don't want to add as many layers to your arms as your torso, or you won't be able to move on a chilly ride. Even sleeveless, you want to keep the wind off of your body. They were unimpressed. I'll make something up next time.

Honestly, it doesn't matter why the vest came to be king in cruiser culture. It is here and here to stay. Biker Access offers a simple black vest constructed of cowhide leather that is heavy, yet soft. The heft will work to your advantage against wind and abrasion while the worked-in softness won't restrict your movement. As a side note, people like to touch soft leather, so you can use that to your advantage.

For practical reasons, this vest is lined and comes with outside and inside pockets. The snap closure makes it easy to open and close with gloved hands. Side laces let you adjust the size if you need to let it out or take it in a bit. Biker Access vests run true to size, so get it big if you want to wear this over other gear.

On perpetual sale, you can find this vest for around $35. The exterior is plain, and I do not like the stitching one bit, but you're probably just going to cover it in patches anyway.

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]]> http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/biker-access-mens-black-leather-vest-lined-w-side-laces/feed/ 1 Riders Passion Console Mounted Thermometer | Aircraft Aluminum Black | Harley Road King http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/riders-passion-console-mounted-thermometer-aircraft-aluminum-black-harley-road-king/ http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/riders-passion-console-mounted-thermometer-aircraft-aluminum-black-harley-road-king/#comments Wed, 16 Dec 2009 23:30:51 +0000 Ila http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/?p=4706 Riders Passion Console MountedThe warmest it is going to get today in my part of this fine state of Michigan is 48 degrees Fahrenheit. I almost wish I didn't know that. I might be willing to tough out an under-geared ride at 40 degrees if I didn't know it was 40 degrees. Of course, that could be hazardous to my health.

Riders Passion's pretty little console mounted thermometer will let you know when you've reached your climate milestones. Cold is not your only threat, heat can also do its damage. Sometimes it's just nice to look down at that little dot of a thermometer and think about how bloody perfect the day is.

Although it is designed to replace the console washer on Harley's Road King, you can mount the Riders Passion thermometer to any tank bib or tank strap. It mounts with a hidden short bolt or 3M double-sided mounting tape. Constructed of chrome plated aircraft grade aluminum, mineral glass crystals, and made to withstand water, vibration, and shock, this console thermometer won't shy away from rugged road use.

This thermometer, with luminous dial for night use, won't be an obtrusive eyesore like those cheap plastic thermometers. One more useful gauge with a shiny case can add to the appeal of your mechanical wonder and, if you're going for a steam punk theme, another dial gauge is always welcome. How welcome you find the $50 price is a matter of opinion.

I still haven't seen a biker barometer. I'd like to know if I'm riding into thunderstorm or away from one. Knowing there's hope down the road can keep me on it. I suppose, for now, knowing if I ought to pull over to prevent hypothermia is good enough.

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]]> http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/riders-passion-console-mounted-thermometer-aircraft-aluminum-black-harley-road-king/feed/ 2 Motorcycle Chrome Air Horn Kit, Compact | Stebel Magnum Dual Tone Mount http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/stebel-magnum-motorcycle-horns-kit-chrome-dual-tone-electromagnetic/ http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/stebel-magnum-motorcycle-horns-kit-chrome-dual-tone-electromagnetic/#comments Mon, 14 Dec 2009 23:28:14 +0000 Ila http://www.spotmotorcycles.com/?p=4703 Stebel Magnum Motorcycle Horns Kit There are noble and ignoble uses for a really loud horn. Letting that 16-year-old, who's been given a license to wield a 2-ton deadly weapon, know that they are about to do something that everyone will regret is a perfectly valid reason to add to their elder-year deafness with a 139 dB blast. Being that jerk who wants to alert his carpool buddy across the street every morning at 7 a.m. is not a valid reason to hit the horn.

For those of you who need to be able to make a big noise in a big hurry, I've always been fond of Stebel Horns. Their Magnum is a set of electromagnetic horns designed for a universal fit. You receive a high-tone horn and a low-tone horn to cover the spectrum and ensure that heads will be turned and breaks will be tapped.

Along with the horns, Stebel's kit includes a 30 amp relay, four mounting brackets, and instructions. Some bikes might need additional fasteners, but you know where the hardware store is, or at least you should.

The whole setup is small, at 3-7/8 inches by 3-3/4 inches by 3-1/4 inches. The chrome finish will nicely nestle in with just about any bike. Also, and this is completely personal, I like the suggested look of the logarithmic snail-shell spiral -- very classy.

A steal for $35, Stebel Horns have a 1/2-year warranty. Admittedly, that's kind of a disappointing duration, but most riders are satisfied well beyond that time limit. You might need a few extra items for installation, such as wire, but that's just another reason to familiarize yourself with the local hardware store.

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