New Ideas
NEW IDEAS
K&N Drag Bike
Children aren't the only ones who appreciate new toys. Which explains why the filter folks over at K&N are offering a 1/9-scale version of Steve Johnson's K&N Pro Stock Suzuki. The nifty little machine's handlebars move, wheels roll and the bodywork can be removed to reveal the dragbike's complex innards. Only 1500 of these limited-edition models are available, so order one for your inner child at $119 a pop.
K&N, 1455 Citrus Ave., Riverside, CA 92507; 800/8583333; www.knfilters.com
Joe Rocket Jackets
Textiles are no longer limited to the touring guys. Even the sportbike-apparel guys at Joe Rocket are embracing non-leather. Two such heavy-duty polyester wraps include the $200 Meteor and the $240 Ballistic jackets. The former is waterproof, cinches at the waist, and has zippered vents and removable armor, back padding and liner. The three-quarter-length latter is also waterproof and has a slew of pockets inside and out, plus removable armor and insulated liner. Both jackets come in a host of colors and sizes.
Joe Rocket, 925 Turnbull Dr., Idaho Falls, ID 83401; 800/635-6103; www.joerocket.com
TNT Carbon-Fiber
Sportbike riders interested in customizing their motorcycles need not settle for faux carbon bits. Now they can get the real deal from North Carolina's TNT, which manufactures its add-ons from 100 percent aerospace-grade carbon-fiber. With seven years experience making NASCAR race-car parts, the company is now doing fuel-tank inserts, chain guards and ram-air covers for Kawasaki's ZX-12. C-F components for other latemodel sportbikes are in the offing, and pricing starts at $73.
TNT Motorsports, 2063 Main Ave., SE, Hickory, NC 28602; 828/323-1277
Aerostich Titanium Tire Irons
Murphy's Law means that off-road motorcyclists should be equipped to change a flat. But, you say, schlepping heavy steel tire irons can be cumbersome. Well, try these Titanium Tire Irons from Aerostich. Each 2.2-ounce bar is 9.25 inches long, and curved spoon ends are said to easily separate tire from rim, and inhibit pinching of tubes. Put a pair in your fannypack for $47, or go for a set of three for $67
Aerostich, Eight South 18th Avenue West, Duluth, MN 55806; 800/222-1994, www.aerostich.com
Oakley Gear
Sometimes, everybody needs cool stuff. This is one of those times. From Oakley for '01 are this medium-sized duffel, Chop Saw shoes and Straight Jacket shades. For $120, the ballistic-nylon-and-mesh gearbag has nine spacious compartments for hauling moto-wear and such. And for après-moto the funky Chop Saws, for $90, come in several colors and have Oakley's patented sole and aggressive tread pattern, as well as breathable uppers. Finally, the $180 sunglasses come with bug-blocking fire-iridium lenses that look way wild while being optically correct. Lightweight, flame-emblazoned frame is the clincher.
Oakley, 1 Icon, Foothill Ranch, CA 92610; 949/951-0991; www.oakley.com
Harley-Davidson Antiqued Clock
Harley-Davidson owners are always looking for the ultimate accessory. Well, now they can even accessorize their living rooms. From The Motor Company comes this Antiqued Cherry Clock. The wood timepiece features a sleek cherry finish (duh...) and sports an illustration of a vintage Harley K-model on its face. The analog clock measures 14 inches in diameter, and runs on AA batteries that aren't included in the $80 price.
Harley-Davidson, 3700 W Juneau Ave., Milwaukee, WI 53201; 800/588-2743; www.harley-davidson.com
Schuberth Concept Helmet
Leave it to the Germans to come up with a better flip-up lid. Manufactured by Deutchiand's Schuberth, a.k.a. maker of BMW helmets, the newly imported Concept starts with a carbon-fiber-composite shell and incorporates intake and exhaust vents, an anti-lift spoiler in the rear and a built-in retractable sun visor. Not to mention the one-touch flip-up chin bar that's activated by a button on the helmet's side. DOT-approved, it's available in solid colors and costs $399.
Intersport Fashions West, 15602 Mosher Ave Tustin, CA 92780; 714/258-2120; www.schuberth-usa.com
AXO MMzero Jersey
While there's plenty of motocross apparel out there, tracking down gear that looks good and lasts isn't always so easy. AXO wants to change that, which is where the MMzero Jersey comes in. The breathable, stain-resistant shirt is made from double-stitched polyester, and features injected graphics instead of screen-printing to reduce fading. V-neck collar, seamless raglan-cut sleeves, loose cuffs and an extra-long tail contribute to a comfortable fit. Available in five color combos and in sizes SXXL, the jersey costs $50.
AXO USA, P.O. Box 470, Agoura Hills, CA 91376; 877/296-2962; www.axo.com
