New Ideas
NEW IDEAS
AIR-TECH CARBON-FIBER-REINFORCED SWINGARMS
Though expensive, carbon fiber has many motorcycle uses. One of the latest is in reinforced swingarms from Air-Tech (3052 Industry, Suite 109, Oceanside, CA 92054; 619/7573366). For $800, Air-Tech will wrap virtually any swingarm with aerospace-quality carbon fiber. The result is increased strength and rigidity, says Air-Tech. The process, which includes sandblasting, prepping and curing, requires four days, with a one week turnaround.
CHROME SPECIALTIES DUAL-STAGE SUPER FILTER
Chrome Specialties’ new Dual-Stage Super Filter incorporates two oil filters in one. Under normal operating conditions, a low-restriction paper element catches damaging particles that the stock fiber element can miss, claims the maker. When the first filter reaches the end of its service life, a by-pass valve diverts oil to the second filter for reliable protection until the next oil change. The Dual-Stage Super Filter fits 1953-82 Harley-Davidson Big Twins and costs $6.70 from Chrome Specialties (1218 Corporate Drive East, Arlington, TX 76006; 800/527-1635).
SHOEI X-8 AIR BEATTIE REPLICA
Shoei’s latest helmet, the X-8 Air, is now available in the multi-color paint scheme worn by grand prix racer Daryl Beattie. The helmet features Shoei’s new Dual Liner Ventilation system-a special shock-absorbing liner that channels fresh air around the wearer’s head. The standard X-8 Air is priced from $395, with the Beattie replica retailing for $550. All models are available in XXS-XXL sizes at motorcycle dealers. For more information, contact Shoei (333 S. Hope Street, Suite 2550, Los Angeles, CA 90071; 213/628-0275).
CYCLE ALERT MOTORCYCLE ALARM
Designed to be a simple and effective deterrence to motorcycle theft, the Cycle Alert motorcycle alarm from Brio (233 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 325, Santa Monica, CA 90401; 310/9175557) combines a sturdy U-lock and a locking 8-foot cable with a motion-sensor-equipped security alarm. Moving the unit for more than 4 seconds or cutting the steel cable activates a piercing 107-decibel siren. The Cycle Alert motorcycle alarm retails for $80 and can be purchased from Parts Unlimited (608/758-1111).
ECLIPSE RUMBLE PACK
Designed to mount quickly to a motorcycle’s seat or rear rack, the Rumble Pack from Eclipse (3771 E. Ellsworth Road, Ann Arbor, MI 48108; 313/971-5552) can expand to accommodate a full-size helmet. The poly-lined cordura pack features an adjustable four-point bungee mounting system, a convenient front pocket for storing gloves, sunglasses or keys, a raincover, reflective striping and a nylon carrying handle. The Eclipse Rumble Pack comes in black, with red, blue, gray or purple sidepanels. Suggested retail price is $100 from the manufacturer.
AVON GRIPSTER AM24
Avon has introduced a tubeless version of its popular AM24 Gripster for BMW’s R100GS. The DOT-approved tire features a special neutral-stress casing with two nylon plys for strength, and another nylon ply for tread stabilization and cool running. A directional arrowhead tread pattern offers optimum off-road traction and a quiet pavement ride, says Avon. Available in 90/90-21 front and 130/80-17 rear sizes, the Gripsters retail for $79 and $107, respectively, from motorcycle dealers.
