New Ideas
NEW IDEAS
Ducati Old Times Jackets
Here's proof that (two-wheel) style never goes out of fashion. Ducati’s Old Times jackets ($541) combine antiqued leather, historical patches and colorful inlays with the protective qualities of modern-day shoulder and elbow armor. Women’s versions are also offered. Ducati North America, 10443 Bandley Dr., Cupertino, CA 95014; 408/253-0499; www.ducati.com
Smooth Industries Lunch Boxes
Want to be the coolest kid in the lunchroom? A Smooth Industries signature-series lunch box is just the ticket. These all-metal meal pails are available in Mike LaRocco, Ezra Lusk, Chad Reed, James “Bubba” Stewart, Ricky Carmichael and Roger DeCoster motifs, and include a matching thermos. Available in limited quantities, they sell for $22 each. Smooth Industries, 9555 Owensmouth Ave. #14, Chatsworth, CA 91331; 818/727-7502; www.smoothindustries.com
Sargent World Sport Seat
Has your BMW Rl100/1150RT been bad to your bum? Sargent’s $620 World Sport seat with its Poly Tec seat pan, Super Cell Atomic Foam and Griptex or CarbonFX inserts was developed for superior comfort and ergonomics. Other standard features include the M-Sport tri-color logo, and a built-in storage container located under the passenger portion. A special “low” version is available for riders with inseams measuring 29 inches or less. Sargent Cycle Products North America, 44 E. First SL, Jacksonville, FL 32206; 800/749-7328; www.sargentcycle.com
Cat Eye Safety Light
Be seen! The $12 Safety Light breaks new ground with its versatile elastic mounting system. The corded disc attaches to just about anything-backpack buckles, bootstraps, even frame rails. Two lithium batteries supply up to 150 hours of constant or flashing LED light, activated by a nifty magnetic on/off switch. Also available in white. Cat Eye Co., Ltd., 1705 14th St. #7f5, Boulder, CO 80302; 800/522-8393; www.cateye.com
Hawg Tie Biker Stirrups
Feelin' a breeze, bro? Keep your pants cuffs where they belong around your ankles with Hawg Tie Biker Stirrups ($25). The adjustable elastic clip-on straps are enhanced with decorative conchos. Hawg Tie Biker Stirrups, 39 Upper Gore Rd., Webster, MA 01570; 5081949-0632; www.hawgties.com
Race Tech Preload Adjusting Tool
If you ride a high-performance motorcycle on the road or in the dirt, odds are you’ve got a bunged-up screwdriver in your toolbox. And if you’ve got one of those, odds are your bike has an equally bunged-up shock spring preload collar. Why not avoid both scenarios with Race Tech’s new Preload Adjusting Tool? This $50 implement is made from heat-treated hardened tool steel, and features a curved end to reach into cramped locations. Hammer sold separately. Race Tech, 1501 Pomona Rd., Corona, CA 92880; 909/279-6655; www.racetech.com
CW SPOTLIGHT
Michelin Pilot Power
"These are the race tires, right?" asked MotoGP Rookie-of-the-Year Nicky Hayden after his first session at Las Vegas Motor Speedway during the press launch for Michelin's new Pilot Power. Intended for street riders who want a treaded radial built using the same technology as the French company's racing slicks, the Pilot Power offers on-track grip perhaps only 5-10 percent off that produced by the Pilot Race S2, M2 or H2 series, but with similar feel and feedback. Even in relatively cool conditions and without the benefit of tire warmers, freshly scrubbed tires were ready to go on the first lap. while brand-new examples needed only two go-rounds. Better yet, after being put through at least 12 heat cycles on-track over the course of a month, the tires still warm up quickly and grip well, good virtues for any tire, especially so for one intended first and foremost for the street. Prices start at $155 for fronts and $190 for rears. Michelin North America, Inc., RO. Box 19001, Greenville, SC 29602; 800/346-4098; www.michelin.com/moto
