Motorcycle Jackets Made for Summer Riding

Now that summer is almost upon us, the temptation to go riding in jeans and a T-shirt rises with the temperature. But doing so risks serious injury; as the old adage goes, “Dress for the fall, not for the ride.” Yet while it’s in your best interest to keep your skin off the pavement, dressing for the elements is essential too; if temps are in the upper 80-degree range and humidity is reaching Turkish-bath levels, keeping layers to a minimum without sacrificing safety (or style) is key. In that case, you need to consider summer motorcycle jackets.

Leather jackets, regardless of the number of vents and the amount of perforation, will always be a slightly heavier option, but they tend to have the most style. Synthetic textile jackets tend to be the exact opposite, running much lighter but sporting a technical look to leather’s timeless one. But it’s entirely possible to balance safety and style — all while staying cool. Consider this list a great place to start.

Alpinestars Viper V2 Air Jacket

The V2 is 2019’s new and improved version of the Alpinestars Viper, with with a little more style and added subtlety to its more technical aspects. CE Level 2-rated armor at the shoulders and elbows is less noticeable than the old version but still has you covered in the event of an impact. The massive mesh panels on the chest and back also allow for more airflow to keep you cool. Should the temperatures take a dip and you don’t need maximum cooling, the Viper comes with a removable windbreaker liner. Luckily, the V2 comes with a zippered pocket on the lower back on the outside of the jacket, so you can store the liner when you don’t need it. And as a bonus, the Alpinestars Viper V2 is the most affordable option on the list.

Belstaff Temple Jacket

Belstaff is known for its leather and waxed canvas jackets, but you’ll be sweating gallons if you try to stick out the summer in your Tourist Trophy. For the warmer months, Belstaff has the Temple Jacket, a lightweight nylon shell with mesh section along the arms for airflow. Although it’s made from nylon, Belstaff still managed to translate its classic two-pocket, vintage moto jacket style to the technical construction — an achievement in its own right.

Aether Draft Mesh Jacket

Aether held off on creating a mesh motorcycle jacket for a long time, mainly because the material naturally lends itself to more tactical looks, which isn’t the brand’s M.O at all. As the company’s first mesh jacket, the Draft keeps with the minimalist, understated style Aether is known for, while still providing the full airflow benefits of the porous material. And the Draft comes with a water and wind-resistant outer shell that stores in a zippered pouch in the back — the better to deal with the porous downsides of mesh jackets in inclement weather. The Draft isn’t canvas or leather as we’ve come to expect from them, but it’s undeniably Aether.

Rev’It Convex Jacket

Rev’It’s overall style leans more to the tactical, high-performance side of the spectrum; the company is loud and proud about the capabilities of their jackets, and the Convex Jacket is no exception. The Convex takes inspiration from Rev’It’s race suits, but dials back the intensity for everyday use. Perforations in the leather along the torso, chest and back, combined with the PWR stretch panels, provide the airflow you need to keep cool on a hot day’s ride, but there’s still plenty of abrasion protection thanks to the Monaco Performance cowhide construction.

Dainese Bardo Perforated Jacket

As a traditional, relatively heavy leather jacket, the Bardo should, in theory, have the toughest job of all the picks on this list keeping a rider cool. But Dianese used perforations throughout nearly the entire front and back of the jacket to maximize airflow; there are even extra perforated panels on the underside of the arms for increased circulation. If you’re looking for classic Italian style but don’t want to sweat to death before you reach your destination, the Dainese Bardo Perforated Jacket is the way to go this summer.

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

5 Motorcycle Pants Great for Life Both On and Off the Bike

Motorcycle commuters know all too well about sacrificing style and office-appropriate appearances in the name of safety. Over-engineered motorcycle pants providing the best protection also pack about as much subtlety as a SWAT team kicking down a door in a drug raid. Then again, the alternative is worse; regular jeans or other ordinary pants provide barely any more protection than wearing nothing at all.

Thankfully, there is a middle ground, a happy medium: motorcycle pants that offer just as much style as they do on-road protection. These are a few of our favorite motorcycle pants fit for life both on and off the bike.

Alpinestars Copper Out Riding Jeans

At first glance, the Alpinestars Copper Out Riding Jeans don’t look any different than standard Copper jeans. Look closely, though, and you’ll see one small detail that makes a massive difference: Above the knees are zippered pockets for easier, external access to the knee armor, meaning you don’t have to take off your pants every time you want to remove the D3O padding. (It’s one of the more novel innovations in riding jeans, and is starting to become quite a welcome trend.) Along with the 13-oz denim construction, Alpinestars also added aramidic fiber reinforcement panels in the seat and knees for extra abrasion resistance.

Rev’It Brentwood Jeans

Your typical pair of riding jeans tend to be made from incredibly stiff, thick denim in the name of abrasion resistance — but that usually translates to a dearth of comfort. The Rev’It Brentwood Jeans curb that by using 12.5-oz Cordura denim, which stretches and provides more freedom of movement but doesn’t sacrifice protection against slides. The Brentwood Jeans come with the industry-standard removable CE-rated Seesmart knee pads; that said, while it is capable of accommodating hip protectors, that armor is sold separately.

Jane Motorcycles Norman Riding Pants

The Jane Motorcycles Norman Riding Pants are easily the most style-focused pants on the list, but they don’t lack in on-road protection for it. Made with a blend of 12-oz Japanese cotton twill and elastic and featuring articulated knees to get rid of bunching when riding and a sewn-in seat yoke to cut down on seam wear, the Norman Riding Pants are built for comfort as much as they are for protection. The Norman Riding Pants also have external access to knee armor pockets to make swapping out pads that much easier.

Pando Moto Steel 9 Jeans

One common tactic in adding abrasion resistance and impact defence to riding pants is, simply, adding layers. But while more of the right materials adds protection, it also brings bulk. The Moto Steel 9 Jeans by Pando uses a single layer of denim reinforced with 25% Dyneema, so the only extra bulk comes from the optional CE rated knee pads — which can be removed from the exterior for quick transitions from bike to office.

Aether Mojave Pants

The Mojave Pants are geared towards adventure riding, but like most of Aether’s apparel, they’re minimalist enough to look at home pretty much anywhere. Made with Halley Stevensons cotton canvas and a straight, slim cut, the Mojave Pants deliver a classy look, but hidden inside are pockets for CE-rated armor. Unlike the rest of the pants on this list, the Mojave has more than just the standard five pockets, but subtle, seam-sealed zippers save you from the fashion faux pas of the cargo pant look.

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

The Complete Ducati Buying Guide: Every Model, Explained

Ducati produces a wide range of motorcycles, but the Italian marque remains a premium, performance-oriented brand, with most models geared toward enthusiasts.

The company names its bikes with monikers that can have near-literal Italian to English translations, or pay homage to the brand’s historical upbringing. (For example, Ducati’s Panigale sportbike family pays tribute to the original manufacturing town of Borgo Panigale in Bologna, Italy, where Ducati began production and still exists today.) The numbers following the names refer to the general engine displacement. Essentially, the numbers denote the size and power of the bike; the larger the number, the heavier and more powerful the motorcycle. Further letters or names usually denotes the vehicle’s focus on a particular type of riding.

For example, let’s take the Ducati Multistrada 1260 S. Multistrada translates to “many roads,” which means it’s capable on all types of asphalt and is suited towards touring or sport-touring applications. 1260 references Ducati’s 1262-cc engine. S denotes the model is geared toward sport or street enthusiasts, which means items like additional “sporty” ride modes and/or an upgraded suspension. The Multistrada also comes with an off-road package denoted by the word Enduro; this references a type of motorcycling done off-road.

Beyond the naming terminology, each type of bike has unique styling and physical features that can help you understand its intended purpose.

Ducati Terminology

Desmodromic: A reciprocating engine poppet valve that is positively closed by a camshaft and leverage system, rather than a conventional spring. A hallmark feature in Ducati engines.
Desmosedici Stradale: The engine used in the Panigale V4 engine. Desmo = the poppet valve; Sedici = sixteen valves; Stradale = street-focused or road-going
Tetrastretta: “Narrow-Head” engine arranged in an “L” shape.
Ducati Corse: The division of Ducati that deals with motorcycle racing development.
Bosch IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit): The “brain of the motorcycle.” A computer safety system that measures six axis of movement, which aids or controls various systems on the motorcycle to increase the rider’s experience and overall safety. The IMU controls most of the below functions on Ducati’s high-end models.
DSP (Ducati Safety Pack): A feature found on almost all 2019 model year Ducati motorcycles, including ABS and traction control.
DVT (Desmodromic Valve Timing): Engine): Independent timing of the camshaft allows for optimization at high and low rpm. The result is maximum power delivery across the rev range.
DMS (Ducati Multimedia System): Allows riders to pair their cell phones or Bluetooth devices to the bike. Lets them take calls, listen to music, and receive text messages on the bike’s TFT display.
DSS (Ducati Skyhook Suspension): An electronic suspension system that keeps the motorcycle balanced by constantly adjusting front and rear suspension under acceleration, deceleration, and additional movement.
DWC (Ducati Wheelie Control): Can minimize or increase how much the front wheel lifts off the ground under hard acceleration.
DTC (Ducati Traction Control): A system that maintains traction by regulating power output from the engine to the wheels.
DPC (Ducati Power Control): Allows for lightning-fast starts while allowing the rider to focus on clutch control.
DSC (Ducati Slide Control): Controls torque delivered by the engine to prevent slide angles and maximize out-of-the-corner performance.
DQS (Ducati Quick Shifter): Lets the rider shift gears up or down without using the clutch.
EBC (Electronic Brake Control): Optimizes bike stability under extreme turn-in conditions.
DCL (Ducati Cornering Lights): As the motorcycle leans over additional lights on the bike illuminate through a curve.
VHC (Vehicle Hold Control): Useful on steep inclines, the system applies light braking to hold the motorcycle until enough forward motion is achieved.
EVO (Evolution): An acronym applied to any of the acronyms above to denote the evolution—or 2nd generation—of said system.
Enduro: A bike with off-road spec components: Longer suspension travel for clearing obstacles, knobby tires for better off-road traction, off-road ride modes, crash bars, skid plate, etc.
S (Sport-spec): Reserved for models that include upgrades for a more sporty or street-focused ride.
R (Race-spec): Reserved for models that include the best upgrades Ducati offers suited for high performance and track use.

Sportbike

Panigale V4 R

The Panigale V4 R is Ducati’s flagship supersport motorcycle, and the fastest and most advanced consumer motorcycle in the lineup. Developed for WSBK (World Superbike) racing, the V4R is a road-legal race bike that has been homologated for the series to include a 998-cc V-4 engine. The Panigale V4 R includes Ducati’s full suite of electronic rider aids, aerodynamics package, top-of-the-line Ohlins suspension. It uses lighter materials than the V4 and V4 S, including forged aluminum wheels and Brembo monobloc calipers. The Panigale V4 R produces 221 horsepower and 82 pound-feet of torque. It is not for the novice rider.

Models:
• Panigale V4R
Engine: 998-cc V4 Desmosedici Stradale R
Base price: $40,000

Panigale V4 / V4 S

The Ducati Panigale V4 is the Italian marque’s top-level liter-bike, with a MotoGP-derived 90-degree, 1103-cc V-4 powerplant. The Panigale V4 features Ducati’s full suite of electronic rider aids for maximum performance on and off the track, as well as styling sure to turn heads. Weighing in at 381 pounds and producing a whopping 214 horsepower with 91.5 pound-feet of torque, the Panigale V4 is basically a fighter jet on two wheels. Those numbers increase to 238 horsepower if you opt for the top-tier V4 S Speciale, which comes with a titanium race exhaust.

Models:
• Panigale V4
• Panigale V4 S
• Panigale V4 S Corse
• Panigale V4 Speciale
Engine: 1,103-cc Desmodromic 90-degree V4
Base price: $21,495

Panigale 959

The Ducati Panigale 959, the baby brother to the outgoing Panigale 1199 and 1299, is Ducati’s lowest–displacement middleweight sportbike. The Panigale 959 is geared for the track, pumping out 157 horsepower and 79 pound-feet of torque from its 955-cc V-Twin powerplant. It comes standard with Pirelli Diablo Rosso Corsa tires mounted on alloy rims, Ducati’s full suite of electronic rider-aids (traction control, Bosch ABS, DQS, several ride modes, etc.), and fully-adjustable front and rear suspension. The Corse version of the Panigale 959 receives special livery and upgraded components that make it a more formidable track weapon.

Models:
• 959 Panigale
• 959 Panigale Corse
Engine: 955-cc Superquadro 90-degree L-Twin
Base price: $14,995

Supermoto

Ducati Hypermotard 950 / 950S

The Ducati Hypermotard 950 is a supermoto hooligan machine, combining the upright ergonomics of a dirt bike and the performance of a sportbike. The Hyper pumps out 114 horsepower and 71 pound-feet of torque, and comes standard with a slew of electronic rider-aids including DTC, DWC, DPL, and Cornering ABS. Upgrade to the SP model and you score an upgraded Ohlins suspension package, increased suspension travel, forged alloy wheels, sticky Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP V3 radial tires, carbon fiber coverings, and a quick shifter.

Models:
• Hypermotard 950
• Hypermotard 950 SP
Engine: 937-cc Testastretta 11-degree twin-cylinder engine
Base price: $13,295

Cruiser / Power Cruiser

Ducati Diavel 1260 and xDiavel

Ducati’s answer to the American power cruiser, the Diavel offers riders a relaxed and comfortable ride without sacrificing the brand’s quintessential quest for performance. The Diavel family of cruisers utilizes the same Testersetta DVT engine found on the Multistrada, which pumps out 157 hp and 95 pound-feet of torque. Tuned differently than the Multistrada, the Diavel features more low-end and midrange torque, a longer wheelbase, and Ducati’s full suite of electric rider aids. S models receive an upgraded Ohlins suspension, Brembo brake calipers, dedicated wheels and a quick-shifter.

Just like many American cruisers, the Diavel can be customized — in its case, in 60 different ways (three footpeg positions, five different seats, three different handlebars, and a slew of rider focused accessories), making for an adaptable bike for various sizes of rider.

Models:
• Diavel 1260
• Diavel 1260 S
• XDiavel
• XDiavel S
Engine: 1262-cc Testastretta DVT L- Twin
Base price: $19,995

Sport Touring / Adventure

Multistrada 950

The Multistrada 950 is Ducati’s mighty middleweight sports-touring motorcycle. Powered by a 937-cc Testastretta 11-degree L-twin producing 113 horsepower and 71 pound-feet of torque, it’s perfect for long highway stints, twisty canyons, and well-groomed dirt roads. The Multistrada 950 comes standard with Ducati’s full suite of electronic rider aids, making for a highly customizable ride. The Multistrada 950 S version comes upgraded with an electronic (DSS) Sachs suspension, Brembo brake calipers, cruise control and DQS.

Models:
• Multistrada 950
• Multistrada 950 S
Engine: 937-cc Testastretta 11-degree L-twin
Base price: $13,995

Multistrada 1260

The Multistrada 1260 is Ducati’s pinnacle sport-tourer / adventure bike, capable of handling long rides on the highway and attacking twisty mountain roads with ease. The Multistrada 1260 features a 1262-cc Testastretta DVT L-Twin producing 156 horsepower and 95 pound-feet of torque. While the 1260 and 1260 S are focused more on street applications, the Multistrada 1260 Enduro receives options that make it more at home in the dirt. All Multistrada 1260 models include a full suite of Ducati’s electronic rider aids, and offer optional accessories for customization.

Models:
• Multistrada 1260
• Multistrada 1260 S
• Multistrada 1260 S Pikes Peak
• Multistrada 1260 Enduro
Engine: 1262-cc Testastretta DVT L-Twin
Base price: $20,995

Sport Naked

Monster 797

The Ducati Monster 797 is Ducati’s “entry-level” Monster, delivering its signature tubular steel trellis frame and stout appearance. The Monster 797 is well suited for urban dwellers and weekend enthusiasts just venturing into motorcycling. Boasting a 803-cc air-cooled L-Twin that produces 73 horsepower and 49 pound-feet of torque, it presents itself as a spry and engaging motorcycle. Unlike many of the bikes in Ducati’s line up, the Monster 797 is a bit of a purist motorcycle in that it lack many if not all electronic rider-aids. It does, however, come standard with a Bosch ABS system.

Models:
• Monster 797
• Monster 797+

Engine:803-cc air-cooled L-Twin
Base price: $9,295

Monster 821

One step up in the Monster family sits the Monster 821. Featuring a more powerful 821-cc liquid-cooled 90-degree V-Twin that produces 109 horsepower and 63 pound-feet of torque, it comes standard with Ducati’s Safety Pack, which includes three-way Bosch ABS, eight-level traction control, and three riding modes. The Monster 821 is an excellent choice for an entry-level or moderately skilled motorcyclist seeking a sport bike with comfortable ergonomics.

Models:
• Monster 821
• Monster 821 Stealth
Engine: 821-cc liquid-cooled 90-degree V-Twin
Base price: $11,995

Monster 1200

The Monster 1200 is Ducati’s top-of-the-line sport naked, which has evolved over the years to become a compact-yet-thrilling bike in the class. The Monster 1200 sports a 1198-cc Testastretta 11-degree L-Twin producing 147 horsepower and 91 pound-feet of torque. The Monster 1200 comes complete with the Ducati Safety Pack, while the S and R models receive performance and trim upgrades that enhance the riding experience.

Models:
• Monster 1200
• Monster 1200 S
• Monster 1200 R
• Monster 1200 25° Anniversario
Engine: 1198-cc Testastretta 11-degree L-Twin
Base price: $14,995

Sport Touring

Ducati SuperSport

The Ducati SuperSport combines Panigale styling with an ergonomically-friendly sport-touring package. Featuring a 937-cc Testrastretta engine producing 110 horsepower and 69 pound-feet of torque and coming standard with ABS, DTC, three ride modes, and DQS, the SuperSport makes for a stylish and sporty ride.

Sport / Sport Touring

Models:
• SuperSport
• SuperSport S
Engine: 937-cc Testastretta 11-degree engine
Base price: $12,995

Retro / Classic / Standard

Ducati Scrambler

The Ducati Scrambler couples retro style with modern technology into an approachable, fun package. The Scrambler family received a major update in 2019, which brought the Ducati Safety Pack into all models across the family. All Scramblers are powered by an 803cc air-cooled L-Twin producing 73 horsepower and 49 pound-feet of torque. Each Scrambler model features unique styling, riding ergonomics, and hardware and features to match: The Scrambler Desert Sled, for example, is more off-road focused, featuring an off-road riding mode, increased suspension travel and knobby tires; the Scrambler Cafe Racer, on the other hand, is for the urban dweller, featuring sporty clip-on handlebars for a more aggressive riding position, 17-inch spoked wheels, stylish graphics and sporty tires.

Models:
• Scrambler Icon
• Scrambler Cafe Racer
• Scrambler Full Throttle
• Scrambler Desert Sled
• Scrambler Sixty2
Engine: 803-cc air-cooled L-Twin
Base price: $9,395

Ducati Scrambler 1100

The Ducati Scrambler 1100 is the bigger brother to the original Scrambler, made for those who find the original Scrambler too small. Also, who need more power, as it packs a larger 1079-cc air-cooled L-Twin producing 86 horsepower and 65 pound-feet of torque. The Scrambler 1100 comes standard with Ducati Safety Pack and three ride modes. Upgrade to the Special, and you receive appearance upgrades and spoked wheels; the 1100 Sport, meanwhile, shines at the top of the class, with a full Ohlins suspension and custom gray color exclusive to the model.

Models:
• Scrambler 1100
• Scrambler 1100 Special
• Scrambler 1100 Sport
Engine: 1079-cc air-cooled L-Twin
Base price: $12,995

Some of the Best New Motorcycle Boots of 2019

Picking out a pair of motorcycle boots is like perusing a toolbox for a wrench, socket, or screwdriver—it’s all about picking the right tool for the job. Whether you’re heading to the track, hitting the trails, or just trying to beat the morning traffic on your commute, equipping yourself with the right boots is crucial for a safe, enjoyable ride. So to help you claw through the many types of motorcycle riding footwear out there, we at Gear Patrol have picked out a few of our favorite new boots of the year 2019.

Alpinestars J-Cult Shoes

As far as non-boot motorcycle footwear goes, it’s all too common to find shoes that neglect function and protection in the name of fashion. Alpinestars J-Cult Shoes find a happy medium between a full-on motorcycle boot and your average sneaker; with a full-grain leather upper, dual density ankle protectors, and heel and toe reinforcements, the J-Cult is more robust and protective than any ordinary high-top.

Alpinestars SMX Plus v2 Vented Boots

When you hit the track, every piece of gear should be purpose-built for the task. The SMX Plus v2 Vented Boot, Alpinestars’s newest lightweight piece of motorcycle gear for your feet, offers impact protection in critical areas, delivers flexible support that limits hyper-torsion, hyperextension, and hyper-flexion, and has a generous amount of perforation for cooling. It’s the cutting edge of track-focused footwear.

Rokker Frisco Racer Boots

Technical adventure riding boots and laser-focused track shoes look fine in their elements, but when you’re heading into the office, you need footwear protective enough for the ride but stylish enough to be worn in a work environment. Luckily, Switzerland-based motorcycle apparel brand Rokker has just the boot for that. The Frisco Racer may have been updated for 2019 to look more casual, but it’s still waterproof and packs protection for your heel, toes, and shin bone.

Rev’It Expedition H2O Boots

Rev’It built its reputation in the adventure riding world with a constant stream of quality products. The new Expedition H2O flagship boot is the latest and most advanced boot from the Dutch gear company; every aspect—protection, comfort, design—has been overengineered to create the ultimate four-season riding footwear. All the cutting-edge technology and R&D that went into this boot comes at a high price—$770, to be exact—but at least you can be confident you have one of the best adventure boots in the world around your foot.

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

The Essential Mother’s Day Gift Guide For Motorcycle-Riding Moms

Women are one of the fastest-growing demographics of motorcycle riders these days, and those women’s options for high-quality, stylish riding gear are growing just as quickly. A new generation of thrill-seeking ladies is hopping on the saddle and braving the fast lane clad in new, unerringly cool boutique brands that tap directly into motorcycle culture. This year, you should have no excuse to find stylish and functional gifts for the mom who rides.

Hedon Heroine Racer Helmet

Since you’re talking about someone’s mama, it’s not a bad idea to invest in a top-shelf cranium cover. Not only will mom’s locks be properly blanketed from ripping winds, but her brain cells will avoid a brutal cha-cha slide on unforgiving asphalt if she goes down.

The Heroine Helmet is not only winsome but also functional. The ultralight, low-profile shell makes it perfect for a female rider. The wide field of vision, anti-fog double lens, three-channel ventilation system, and Hed Armor lining inside with Merlin anti-bacterial fabric all bring added value to this DOT-certified helmet.

The Pit Crew Jumpsuit

Mom jeans may be back in, but the classic garage jumpsuit is still heating up high-fashion runways worldwide. The utility onesie is made from a super-soft sanded cotton chino twill that’s been hit with a vintage enzyme wash.

With a roadside-relaxed look of rolled sleeves and a zippered patch pocket, the retro jumper tapers at the waist for a more feminine look. You’ll be hardened to find a mom-bod silhouette this outfit doesn’t flatter.

Raen Norie Sunglasses

These roadside stunners come in retro, bone-colored frames and brown rose mirror CR-39 lenses—manufactured by Carl Zeiss Vision and boasting 100-percent UVA/UVB protection when staring straight into the blinding sun. The five-barrel hinges are embedded in each temple, making for a strong and sturdy pair of sunnies that can take on going full-throttle.

Godspeed Leather Riding Gloves

Adorn your handlebars — and armor your phalanges — with these riding gloves from P&Co.’s Godspeed Collection. The 100-percent cowhide leather eliminates bulk, and is smooth and comfortable while keeping hands warm and dry. The breathable material also provides ample dexterity to keep a grip on the controls.

The reinforced palm overlay integrates a durable stretch to accommodate rings and an elasticated cuff for other wrist jewelry. And the embossed graphics on top of the hands and lightning bolt on the throttle palms are undeniably rad.

Logo Coach Collared Jacket

This badass bomber features an embroidered twill logo patch, branded snap buttons, and an adjustable drawstring hem at the waist to pull it tighter. While the Logo Coach is certainly a statement fashion piece, don’t underestimate its practicality; it has been tried and tested along mountain roads, across arid deserts, and in high winds. The super-soft brushed cotton makes it an essential layering jacket for chillier days.

Red Wing Women’s Moc

As soon as you sense the urge to put the pedal to the medal (so to speak), lace up the Red Wing Moc Boots. The commanding-yet-refined Mocs double-dip as both on- and off- road shoes—good for city exploring and hiking, as well as a safe-riding kickstart boot. Expertly made in Red Wing, Minnesota, these puppies feature Goodyear leather welt construction, polyurethane traction tread outsole, and shock-absorbing cork filler under the footbed. The oil-tanned leather is water-, stain-, and perspiration-resistant, and gives a more natural look. Meanwhile, the subtle heel easily registers foot pegs.

Moto Sling Bag

This backpack is uniquely handcrafted from upcycled Langlitz motorcycle jacket leather in the Pacific Northwest. The simplistic riveted shoulder sling bag dupes the untrained eye with all its storage tricks, without sacrificing style, durability or space. A secure roll-top folds down; adjustable straps and a dog-clip closure able to fasten down an additional gear, while quilted pockets deliver extra storage. The backside’s “registration tag sleeve” with a clear vinyl window ensures you won’t go unknown on your two-wheeled adventures.

Love Wild Barley Blue Bandana

Designer Jenni Earle brings this hand-dyed, hand-drawn, screen-printed bandana from Winston-Salem, North Carolina to all the wild-hearted ladies. The super-soft cotton provides comfort on dirt roads or in inclement weather, while the edgy motif encourages spontaneity and desire. Look close, and you can find the words “love is the wildness” and “feel the fear” printed on its free-spirited design.

Caffeine & Gasoline Travel Mug

There’s always time for an on-the-go pick-me-up, isn’t there? Thos trendy matte black mug features P&Co. graphic artwork and is made BPA-free in the European Union. Right on track with the burgeoning eco-friendly train, this reusable traveling sippy cup is perfect for transporting your daily hot coffee and iced juices.

Sena SMH-10 Bluetooth Headset/Intercom

Whether you have an afternoon to yourself or you’re embarking on a weekend trip, the Sena not only allows you to groove to your favorite tunes while drowning out the unarming roar of the bike blaring, but it also lets you perform hands-free conference calls by pairing with three other nearby headsets. Its music playback feature comes built into speakers, which attach to the inside of the helmet, so you don’t have to worry about wires getting in the way. GPS-device pairing, adjustable volume profiles, and two USB charging units are other handy benefits.

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

This Is the Motorcycle Harley-Davidson Should Be Building

As Harley-Davidson continues to try and find ways to boost sales and reach a younger generation of riders, like sponsoring the X-Games and a Formula E race car or bringing the $30,000 all-electric Livewire to the market, the Luxemburg-based Blacktrack Motors is showing Milwaukee how it’s done. The BT-03 is Blacktrack’s gorgeous new creation and is the cafe racer Harley-Davidson should be building.

Even though the BT-03 is based on an HD Fatbob, not much remains of the original bike. Blacktrack replaced the subframe, triple trees, front fairing, fuel tank, tail, and, while the engine remains stock, the Luxemburg-based shop fitted a new performance air filter and a custom exhaust. The stock suspension, brakes and wheels were also tossed out in favor of lighter, more performance-oriented versions. All told, the BT-03 saves over 100 pounds compared to the Harley and with the upgrades, it’s reasonable to assume the lighter BT-03 can best a Fatbob through corners, too.

In recent years, major manufacturers recognized the cafe racer craze taking hold in certain circles of the custom bike industry, and for a while, it seemed like a new retro-inspired model was launched every other week. Brand’s like Ducati, Honda, Triumph, and well, pretty much anyone who makes motorcycles already cashed in — except for Harley-Davidson, which is a shame, because had it built one and it looked like this, it would’ve been a knock-out success for the American manufacturer. The Ducati Scrambler is one of the Italian brand’s best selling motorcycles ever, while the excitement around the new Indian Motorcycle FTR 1200 is palpable and reaching an audience which normally wouldn’t consider Indian, it wouldn’t be far fetched to think a similar bike would have the same effect on HD.

Blacktrack doesn’t list the price, which is standard procedure for builds of this caliber and usually means it’ll be quite expensive. If HD built quit its current scattershot marketing initiative and focused on building a bike like this and gave it an affordable price tag, it might stand a chance in saving its reputation.

The Used Motorcycles We’d Buy for Under $2,500 Right Now

Finding a halfway decent used motorcycle at a good price can be liberating—and it’s not as hard as you’d think. Even when armed with a fairly low budget of just $2,500, you still have a vast array of motorcycles from which to choose. Sure, you’ll come across a few shady listings and some overpriced bikes (even at $2,500), but there’s still an encouraging amount of motorcycles in good enough condition to tempt you to pull the trigger.

To help sort through the endless amount of affordable used motorcycles living online, we at Gear Patrol picked out a few we’d buy right now for less than $2,500.

1996 Honda XR 600R

Honda has a habit of making a perfect desert bike and then not updating it for years to come—the XR600R is a prime example—but that by no means should diminish said bike’s reputation. Introduced in 1985 and updated in ’88 and’92, the XR600R then remained unchanged until the year 2000. This XR600R is a bit of a mid-90s time capsule, from the graphics all the way to the design. It’s a bit worrying the seller doesn’t list the engine’s hours (since it’s an off-roader, it doesn’t have an odometer), but these bikes were known to be tanks, and cheap to maintain.

Mileage: n/a
Location: Ventura, California

2019 Honda CBR300R

This 2019 Honda CBR300R is the exception to the “used” rule on this list, but it was too good to ignore. Around this time, dealerships will tack on a heap of incentives to help sell last season’s bikes to make way for new inventory. The Honda CBR300R is categorized as a “sport bike,” but considering its size, power and balance, it makes for one hell of a first bike.

Mileage: 3
Location: Chula Vista, California

1990 Kawasaki ZG1000

The ZG1000 is a bit of a sleeper. Originally introduced in 1986, the ZG1000 is based on the full-fledged Ninja 1000R sportbike, but Kawasaki made a few reasonable changes to make it more liveable. Less aggressive cams, carburetors, and a shaft drive help the ZG1000 become more civilized and better suited for longer rides.

Mileage: 47,328
Location: Commerce Township, Michigan

1970 Triumph Trophy

Admittedly, this Triumph is in the worst shape compared to the rest of the list. But, if you keep in mind its age and the fact that it still “runs,” it could make a promising Trophy TR25W restoration.

Mileage: 12,590
Location: Spearfish, South Dakota

Some of the Best Motorcycle Jackets For Spring 2019

The days are getting longer, the temperatures slowly but reassuringly on the rise. Which can mean only one thing: riding season is here. It’s a perfect time to take inventory of your riding gear to assess what needs repair of full replacement, starting with arguably the second-most essential piece of gear you need on a motorcycle, the jacket. There’s been a flood of new releases ahead of the riding season; here are some of our favorites for 2019.

Merlin Wesley Jacket

Merlin doesn’t have the same history of fellow British brands Belstaff and Barbour, but history isn’t the only avenue to developing a quality motorcycle jacket. The Merlin team works closely with professional riders in top-tier racing categories like MotoGP and WorldSBK to suss out what performs, then wrap that technical gear in a casual vintage style. The Wesley Jacket is made of abrasion-resistant Halley Stevensons 10 oz cotton and coated with a water repellent treatment. Hidden underneath is DuPont Kevlar at the elbows and shoulders, which also have removable CE1 armor for extra protection.

Alpinestars Tailwind Air WP Jacket

Alpinestars is a titan of the industry with reach into almost every aspect of motorsport, so it knows what it’s doing when it comes to on-road protection. The Tailwind might look like a lightweight, minimal mesh jacket at first glance, and the large mesh panels do allow for lots of cooling airflow on hot days, but under the durable 600D polyester top layer there’s a detachable waterproof lining and a waterproof pocket for your wallet and phone. Protection-wise, there’s industry standard CE 1 level armor at the elbows and shoulders. Most importantly, the Tailwind is compatible with Alpinestars airbag system, which inflates in the event of a crash (even a low-side), making this one of the safest jackets on the list.

Rev’It Offtrack

Rev’It is one of the most trusted names in adventure riding gear. The Dutch company cut its teeth in the wilds of Europe and its popularity skyrocketed when it made landfall in the US a few years ago. The Offtrack jacket is the latest result of Rev’Its in-the-field testing. Protection comes from the lightweight but tough 450D and 600D polyester outer construction combined with CE2 level armor at the elbows, shoulders and back. The detachable thermal and Hydratex liners make the Offtrack one of the more versatile jackets on the list, but you’ll be happy with the options when the weather on your adventure ride takes a turn for the worse.

Dainese Bardo Perforated Jacket

Dainese earned its reputation back in the ’70s in the Italian motocross scene and they’ve kept that certain sprezzatura along the way. The Dainese Bardo exudes vintage style, but it’s a modern jacket constructed with full-grain cow hide for protection and is perforated to keep you cool. One caveat: you have to buy the shoulder and elbow armor separately.

Belstaff Brooklands Leather Jacket

Belstaff is one of the more storied brands in the industry. They were the first company to use waxed cotton for motorcycle apparel back in the ’20s and made a name for themselves protecting riders in some of the worlds toughest motorcycle races, like the Isle of Man TT and the Scottish Six Days, since the early 1900s. The Brooklands Jacket is a direct call back to the jackets of the riders who raced the famous Brooklands circuit at the turn of the century. The Brooklands Jacket is old-school leather with modern waterproofing treatment and removable CE D3O armor at the elbows and shoulders.

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.

Ducati’s Director of Design Talks About the Award-Winning Diavel 1260S

In the design world, few awards are more coveted and respected than the Red Dot Award. In the 2019 contest alone, 40 international judges scrutinized 5,500 products across 34 categories. But we’re more concerned with the motorcycle category right now, as that’s where the 2019 Ducati Diavel 1260 S took home top honors, winning the Red Dot: Best of the Best Award. The Diavel, in case you’re unfamiliar, is by far the Italian brand’s most distinctive motorcycle, if not arguably the most distinctive motorcycle on the market right now—one with few, if any, direct competitors.

To find out more about this unique bike, Gear Patrol spoke with Ducati Design Director Andrea Ferraresi to find out why he thinks the Diavel is every bit deserving of its latest accolade.

Even with a sculpted machine like the Panigale V4S superbike–a motorcycle seemingly shaped by hand to handle 200-mile-per-hour wind—in its lineup, Ferraresi is adamant the Diavel is the looker in the family.

“The Diavel relies more on design than the V4S, in the customers’ imagination,” Ferraresi says. “The V4S is more of a performance bike or a professional racing motorcycle. Of course, the design is also important, but for a design award, we thought [the Diavel] was a better choice.” (That’s not without merit, seeing as how the more cruiser-esque XDiavel S won the same “Best of the Best” award back in 2016.)

As for which segment the Diavel fits in, “you can consider it a naked bike, but it’s not a cruiser,” Ferraresi says. “There are no real competitors of the Diavel,” he adds. “The 2016 XDiavel is a cruiser—the Diavel 1260 S is a muscle bike.”

By that logic, historically speaking, bikes like the Yamaha V-Max, Harley Davidson V-Rod, Triumph Rocket III, and the more obscure Ariel Ace would the more notable comparable motorcycles. But the V-Max and V-Rod aren’t in production anymore, the Rocket III hasn’t been seriously updated since 2010, and the Ariel Ace isn’t widely available.

What constitutes a muscle bike? Think about it as a melting pot of other motorcycle styles. It’s not necessarily a cruiser—as Ferraresi is all too happy to remind you—but it does share similar ergonomics.

“We wanted to join the DNA of three different motorcycles,” he said. “If you look at the stance and performance of the bike, it’s clearly a superbike. If you look at the lines of the bike, it’s a cruiser. And if you look at the tank it’s a naked bike, like the Monster.”

Ferraresi said his team of designers have mood boards covered with pictures of classic American muscle cars with massive engines, and that inspiration comes through in the Diavel. Its 159-horsepower 1262-cc Testastretta L-twin engine seems barely constrained by the enormous fuel tank perched on top, like the motor could leap through it and into the rider’s lap at any second.

It might be the combination of the Diavel’s performance and unique style that helped the Red Dot jury decide to give it top honors. Regardless of why it won, though, it stands apart from other bikes for plenty of reasons. Ferraresi says he “wanted to create a motorcycle that didn’t exist at the moment.” Clearly, he did.

How To Prep Your Motorcycle for Spring

Your motorcycle, no matter how cheap, is an investment. If you don’t put in the time and attention, it’ll quickly morph from a source of mechanical joy to a rusty piece of garage furniture. JIt’s important to prepare your bike for winter storage, and it takes an equal amount of prep to get it out of hibernation and ready for springtime riding. Use this checklist to help get your motorcycle smoothly back on the road this spring.

Fuel

If you properly stored your motorcycle for winter – drained the fuel and, added stabilizer liquid – you have little to worry about. If you did neither of those things, I hope you read this before tried to start up your bike.

Fuel degrades if it’s left alone for too long. Its combustible properties evaporate, the gasoline oxidizes and creates varnish deposits and condensation can form. If carelessly stored for winter, the first startup after storage can force solid particles and water, along with useless fuel, through the system, clogging and destroying the lines, filter and injectors. You… don’t want that.

Pro-tip: Winterize your motorcycle correctly. Assuming you did winterize you motorcycle properly, you’re still going to want to pour fresh high-octane fuel into the tank to ensure the best combustion.

Oil and Oil Filter

If you didn’t change your oil and oil filter before storing your bike for the winter, now is the time to make the swap. Similar to fuel, oil can oxidize and degrade over time and cause the viscosity to change for the worse. And, unless your motorcycle is stored in a climate-controlled garage, temperature swings lead to condensation which leads to sludge. Sludge is bad.

Other Fluids

Fuel and oil are the most obvious to check, but it’s never a bad idea to do a full fluid swap and replace your brake fluid and engine coolant. Like fuel and oil, brake fluid and coolant break down over time and lose effectiveness.

Battery

Ensuring your battery is set for spring comes down to whether you hooked it up to a trickle charger before storing it for winter. If you didn’t, order a new battery sooner rather than later so your first ride isn’t delayed any more than it has to be.

Tires

Before setting out on any ride, you should make sure you have properly inflated tires. Tires will lose pressure if left sitting for long periods, especially in low temperatures. If you didn’t store your bike on a stand, its possible the rubber even developed flat spots, and if the bike was left sitting on concrete with nothing between the tires and the ground, moisture damage is likely. It’s better to check for these things in your garage than find out about them while going 65mph down the highway.

Note: Purchasing products through our links may earn us a portion of the sale, which supports our editorial team’s mission. Learn more here.