New Ideas
NEW IDEAS
AGV AX-8 TP199 Signature Helmet
What does a guy who has hit his head a few times (okay, more than a few!) want in a helmet? Travis Pastrana’s signature DOT/E2205-approved AX-8 ($399.95, sizes XXS-XXL) is constructed from a proprietary combination of fiberglass, Kevlar and carbon-fiber, features AGV’s Integrated Ventilation System, has a fully removable, washable Dri-Lex interior and, despite its large, steel chinbar grill, is said to weigh just 3 pounds. Just the thing to have in your gearbag when you’re prepping for a(nother) backflip... Dainese/AGV USA, 1645 Superior Ave., Costa Mesa, CA 92627; 949/645-9500; www.agv.com
GIVI Easylock Saddlebags
Going places? Want to bring along a load of stuff without putting a big dent in your bank account? GIVI’s Easylock saddlebags combine the solid mounting of traditional hard cases with the ease-of-use and light weight of soft luggage. Boasting 15 liters of carrying capacity each, the $299 bags are thermoformed from a high-tech laminated fabric and fitted with waterproof zippers. Each incorporates a rigid, back-of-bag mounting plate for enhanced load stability. The patented, user-friendly Easylock attachment system operates in conjunction with model-specific kits ($120). GIVI USA, 9309 Forsyth Park Dr., Charlotte, NC 28273; 877/679-4484; www.giviusa.com
Suzuka Professional Tire Warmers
“Light on price, heavy on quality and features” is an appropriate description of Suzuka Professional Tire Warmers ($300). Intended for budget-conscious roadracers and track-day enthusiasts, these single-temperature blankets heat tires from 70 to 170 degrees in approximately 45 minutes, the goal being to help prevent cold-tire-induced crashes and extend tire life. Recent upgrades include shock-resistant thermostats, dual-stage operating lights—red for heating, green for “go”—improved insulation and aluminized fiberglass liners. A nylon carrying case is supplied. Chicken Hawk Racing, Inc., 54 Elizabeth St. #10, Red Hook, NY 12571; 866/468-8473; www.tirewarmer.com
Öhlins Shocks for Harley-Davidson
Greatly improve the overall comfort and ride of your Harley-Davidson FLH, Dyna or Sportster with the value-oriented emulsion-type ($617.49) or more sophisticated high-pressure, gas-type mono-tube shocks ($908.88, shown) from Swedish suspension-specialist Öhlins. Fitted with black springs, the FLH models come in either 12or 13-inch lengths. Dyna and Sportster extra-cost options include external adjustments for ride height, compression and rebound damping, and spring preload. Choose from black, gold or, for some models, chromed springs. Öhlins USA, 703-C S. Grove St., Hendersonville, NC 28792; 828/692-4525; www.ohlinsusa.com
Full Tuck Racing Leathers
Full Tuck Racing wants to make an impact on the road and at the racetrack with its new line of aggressively styled, oneand two-piece leather riding suits. Depending on the application, the suits are produced in Brazil from either top-grain or first-split cowhide in 1.2-1.4mm thicknesses. Shoulders, elbows and knees feature CE-approved armor with Schoeller Kevlar and carbon-fiber trim. Cordura stretch panels, front-of-suit perforation and a back-of-suit hump are standard. Suggested retail price for the one-piece Daimyo, Double Barrel and Switchback, as well as the two-piece Mirage, are identical: $699. The Mirage jacket ($399) and pants ($349) can be purchased separately, as well. Full Tuck Racing Corp., P.O. Box 1128, Burbank, CA 91507; 818/453-8561; www.fulltuckracing.com
Park Tool ASC-1 Anti-Seize Compound
Here’s a case in which a dab really is all you need. Park Tool ASC-1 Anti-Seize Compound ($7.95, 4 ounces) reduces friction in threaded and press-fit connections for easy assembly and disassembly. Ideal for exhaust bolts, bearing races and other applications, ASC-1 also seals and protects aluminum, steel and titanium parts from corrosion. Park Tool Co., 6 Long Lake Rd., St. Paul, MN 55115; 651/777-6868; www.parktool.com
Pirelli Diablo Corsa II
European Editor Bruno dePrato recently enjoyed a unique opportunity: test the brandnew Diablo Rosso II at Pirelli's own test track in Italy. "The latest evolution of the Diablo Rosso,” he reported, “is a double-compound supersport radial developed specifically for today’s midand large-displacement sportbikes that spend most of their life on the street, not the racetrack. “With steel belts at 0 degrees, a large central band featuring a new compound that positively ensures solid mileage, but also very safe grip on wet surfaces, and two lateral, high-grip bands for serious lean angles, the Diablo Rosso II is regarded as the most versatile of all Pirelli sport radiais. “Mounted on the 2011 BMW R1200R that I was riding, the Rosso IIs [MSRP starting at $355 for a pair] provided a real shot in the arm and even exceeded my expectations. The boxer-Twin became even more nimble and precise, quicker-steering and more stable under heavy braking. With the optional ESA set on Sport, the R1200R felt perfectly home at the track and took to footpeggrinding lean angles as though I was seated at a café drinking a cup of coffee.” Pirelli Tire, LLC, 100 Pirelli Dr., Rome, GA 30161; 800/747-3554; www.us.pirelli.com
