New Ideas Off-Road Aids
NEW IDEAS OFF-ROAD AIDS
IGNITION
GEAR
Five items to improve your dirt experience
Blake Conner
ELECTRIC SHOCK
Many bikes can benefit from better suspension, even the 2013 and newer BMW F800GS with ESA, Touratech has created the Plug & Travel ESA Upgrade ($1,695) GS shock. Touratech says this high-performance damper integrates with the stock computer. Besides superior damping, it is completely serviceable and fully compatible with ESA. (800) 491-2926 touratech-usa.com
RAMP IT UP
If you’ve ever had your ramp slip off the tailgate while loading a bike, you know how damaging it can be to you and your vehicles. Shark Kage's 24 x 92-inch ramp ($299) attaches to your tailgate via a mounted plate, creating a stable loading platform. The aluminum ramp, with a 750-pound capacity, can also function as a bed extender or workbench. (702) 982-1400 sharkkage.com
LIGHT HEADED
Looking for an ultralightweight helmet for off-road riding? The brand-new Kali Shiva ($500) fits the bill. The company, better known in bicycle circles, has developed a DOT-approved, 1,050-gram (2.3-pound) helmet that uses a carbon-fiber shell into which the EPS liner is injected. Kali says the Shiva is 30 percent smaller than a typical MX lid. (888) 776-5254 kaliprotectives.com
DON’T SINK IT
Do you ever get that sinking feeling when you park your motorcycle on a soft surface such as sand, dirt, or grass? End it for good with the Cycle Saver Pad ($15), a flat plastic puck to tuck under your kickstand when you park on any soft surface. Stow it in your pack or in your back pocket; the standard safety lanyard is designed to attach to your belt. cyclesaverpad.com
IS THE AC ON?
If you ride off-road or motocross in summer, you know that anything to help keep you cool is essential. Malcolm Smith Racing’s new Max Air pants ($119.95) do their part by having vented poly-mesh panels, and the accompanying jersey ($34.95)-which has microcuffs and a stretch Lycra collar—is made of a micromesh with excellent airflow. -> (951) 340-3301 msracing.com
