The Kube Pocket may have some value if you have absolutely no pockets on your jacket. Otherwise it's not a good value and is a bit of an abberation hanging off the pack. It's not a hard case so not recommended for glasses even if they do fit inside. It's not sized right for a wallet or most smartphones, so honestly, I can't figure a use for it.
Kriega R25 Backpack The Kriega R25 motorcycle backpack has a quick release QUADLOC harness, which is Kriega's own tried, tested and highly recommended system, unique to the rucksack industry. An innovative extremely efficient load-carrying system designed for motorcycle riders. Unlike conventional harness systems the load is carried on the hips chest, transferring the majority of the load away from the shoulders and thereby preventing the neck strain experienced with regular rucksacks. Ergonomically designed with no arm restriction for long distance comfort on a motorcycle. Features Main compartment - YKK oversize zip Side access pocket with 4-point load compression. Internal magazine sleeve, which can accommodate a 14 laptop Internal key-clip SUPERSPACE 5mm airspace fabric Oversize YKK coil zips Schoeller DYNATECH with intergrated 3M Scotchlite reflectivity 1000D Dupont Cordura base harness 420D nylon ripstop - lightweight yet extremely strong CNC 6061-T6 alloy buckles Expanding outer pocket 10 year guarantee 25-litre capacity 520mm(H) x 300mm(W) x 160(D) mm
Pros Quality materials, robust construction, thoughtful design. Harness system is easy to use and adjustable.
Cons There really are no flaws. If I had to niggle, I would prefer a dual zipper on the main compartment. At least it's heavy duty. Also would prefer some genuine retro-reflectivity rather than just a shiny patch.
Comments - At its price point, you're paying for more than just a back pack. Hopefully it will still be working well 10 years from now.
Design - The R25 harness system is unique and interesting, but is it really any better than the standard backpack fare with shoulder straps, waist belt, and maybe a chest strap? Oddly enough, I found its big brother R35 to be extraordinarily stable, too bad I couldn't live with the zipper harness fastener. The R25 has a couple of easy to use clasps as part of their Quadloc system, better than anything else that clicks together.
There is one exterior zipper compartment that is the perfect size for a couple of small, nylon "envelopes" that make up my "man purse". They're semi-permanent fixtures in the pack while everything else goes in and out of the main compartment on a daily basis. Nice, wide opening makes that easy. Compression straps keep things from getting wiggly.
Fit and comfort - Have been wearing this pack for a week of daily commuting and not sure if the fit is dialed in yet. I'm very used to pack belts around my waist and am unsure about having the support point moved up to my solar plexus. It's not uncomfortable, but maybe not any better either.
Accessories - US5 and Kube Pocket.
The US5 attaches neatly to the rear of the R25 and offers modest additional storage. Unfortunately, mounting it covers the only rear-facing shiny patch. At least the Kriega logo is still available, and you paid for it. The logo and shiny patch should swap positions. I don't see myself keeping the US5 mounted on the pack as it's mostly unnecessary bulk. Hope to find a good use for it because it's nifty.
The Kube Pocket may have some value if you have absolutely no pockets on your jacket. Otherwise it's not a good value and is a bit of an abberation hanging off the pack. It's not a hard case so not recommended for glasses even if they do fit inside. It's not sized right for a wallet or most smartphones, so honestly, I can't figure a use for it.
I realize my review is not as glowing as many. Perhaps it should be as a justification for the price, or maybe the price makes me more critical. Bottom line - good pack, I think it's a keeper.
Shoei Neotec Modular Helmet Evolving on previous designs, Shoei has revamped its modular helmet style with a streamlined and attractively sculpted shape that conveys the feel of freely moving through the outdoors in the Shoei Neotec Modular Helmet. Overall shell size is kept compact by incorporating the internal sun visors open/close mechanism inside all ventilation mechanisms are shaped and positioned in such a way as to reduce any possible drag. A redesigned aerodynamic spoiler also helps to cut lift, reducing neck strain on long, cross country rides. In the Shoei Neotec all these features combine to create a premium helmet that excels in appearance, protection, comfort and performance. The Shoei Neotec Helmets chin bar is connected to the same axis point and mechanism as its shield, minimizing extra parts. This also enables simultaneous closing of the shield with the chin bar, which is then held in place with an easy-open lock release button. The shield lock system offers secure closure or the ability to keep the shield slightly open to allow for increased airflow. With the Shoei Neotec Helmet, Shoei now includes a built-in sun shield, the QSV-1. The visor tucks neatly away beneath a non-intrusive shell built into the helmets liner, and can be lowered with the easy control of a sliding button. Shoei Neotec Helmet Features Face Shield Features Easily operable lever mechanism Anti-fog, anti-scratch, 99 UV blocking New Pinlock-ready CNS-1 faceshield Wider and taller than the CX-1V that it replaces Includes Pinlock insert 3D injection molding process ensures a distortion-free view Improved Ventilation and Aerodynamics Newly designed vortex generators pull air through helmet 276 more airflow than Multitec Added inlets and outlets Vents are flush against helmet to maintain aerodynamics 5-Ply Shock-Absorbing Fiber Shell 3 shell sizes AIM Multi-Composite construction Lightweight yet strong Shell-integrated spoiler reduces lift and drag during high-speed riding Dual EPS Liner Multi-density EPS for optimal protection Two vents funnel fresh air through the EPS liner Dual liner channels route and disperse air evenly throughout the helmet EPS liner in chin bar All new interior Fully removable 3D interior liner Top center pad is removable and washable Improved cheekpad design allows better fit with eyeglasses Included chin curtain can be inserted into the chin bar to reduce turbulence and noise All Neotec Helmets sold in the US have a double D-ring closure Be sure to check out our Shoei Neotec Review above, in which we detail and break down all of the features and functionality of the brand new Shoei Neotec Helmet. Note Due to manufacturer restrictions, Shoei products can only be shipped to addresses within the United States
The best gear isn't cheap, but in the long run, it's usually money well spent. My previous helmet is a HJC IS-16, which I have no complaints about. The Shoei Neotec is simply better in every way. I bought a Neotec for my wife after she tried on a dozen helmets and this was the only one she would have. Guess I got helmet envy because after examining it at length, it was clearly the top of the helmet food chain.
Tinted drop-down visor. This has become a must-have helmet feature. I still can't find the lever first time every time. Shield - wide field of view, Pinlock insert included. Chin curtain and nose guard included. Chin bar works easily and reliably, feels secure. Ventilation - 5 stars! This thing vents like a blower scoop on a drag race motor without being drafty. Quietest helmet I've ever had. Ear pockets - easily fit an intercom system. Color - my wife, as a pillion, appreciates the new matte grey finish/color.
Kriega R35 Backpack The Kriega R35 has a 35-litre capacity with 6-point pack compression. Organizer pockets front mesh pocket with shock cord compression, top zip-mesh pocket, 2 x side access zip pockets, inner A4 sleeve key clip. Featuring the innovative QUADLOC harness system - once set - just zip in and out. Harness angled away from underarms for total freedom of movement and no shoulder pull. Chest panel includes 2 x zip pockets and a 3M Scotchlite reflective zip-cover. Features SUPERSPACE 5mm airspace fabric Oversize YKK coil zips Schoeller DYNATECH with integrated 3M Scotchlite reflectivity 1000D Dupont Cordura on base and harness 420D nylon rip-stop Lightweight, yet extremely strong Unique QUADLOC harness CNC 6061-T6 alloy buckles (patent protected) 2 x outer zip-pockets Front mesh pocket with shock-cord Top zip-mesh pocket inner A4 sleeve pocket 10-year guarantee 35-litre capacity Size 570mm(H) x 300mm(W) x 200(D) mm
Pros Quality materials Rugged construction Fit and load-bearing support This harness system fits amazingly well and would probably still be comfortable if the bag was full of rocks. It feels like it's clamped onto your torso, really different than typical hangy, saggy backpacks.
Cons Zippered front connector is not a good idea. The fact that the zipper is backwards for US males (left hand pull instead of right hand pull) compounds this inconvenience. The real problem with the zipper is that it's very hard to do when wearing a heavy jacket. With a helmet on, you can't see what you're doing. Gloves - forget about it. A pack this big needs compartmentalization options. I realize the design is one big compartment, stuff it at will. If that's what you need, then this design is perfect, otherwise, not so much. The front of this bag covers your chest like Kevlar vest. You might consider this extra protection a bonus. If you ride in hot weather and need frontal ventilation, you're done for.
I returned it and got a Kriega R25, more civilized, smaller but still big enough for my daily commuter needs.
AltRider Yamaha Super Tenere XT1200Z Skid Plate Rocks and debris are no match for the AltRider Skid Plate for the Yamaha Super Tenere XT1200. Constructed of 3.175 mm powder coated aluminum, it reaches high on the left hand side to protect the stator, and provides extensive coverage of the headers on the right. The skid plate features hand TIG welds and stainless hardware, and is manufactured in the United States. The AltRider skid plate is the solution for the Yamaha Super Tenere XT1200, no matter what adventure you take. Specifications 3.175 mm anodized aluminum Hand TIG welds Stainless hardware Height 12 inches Width 18 inches Depth 24 inches Weight 8 lbs
This is a skid plate on an expensive adventure touring bike, so I really don't want to test it if you know what I mean. Skid plates are insurance, you want to have it there just in case.
This product is typical Altrider fare, which is to say it is top quality. The instructions are very thorough and accurate enough that installation was followed with no mis-steps. Hint - an angled driver will ease holding the inboard fasteners.
The product is well designed: good coverage (important for a skid plate), thoughtful bracketry, the fitment was excellent, good powder coat finish (black version), and it looks good too (style is subjective, but let's face it, some skid plates are ugly without being more functional.)
I have several Altrider products on this bike. They're not cheap, but they are about as good as you can get and made in the USA too!
I bought this jacket for the style (hi-viz, more pockets, 3/4 length, fits with my Olympia pants), design (good ventilation for warm use, removable liner for cold) and reputation. The Olympia pants and gloves I own are high quality.
Pros - good quality material, construction, and finish. The ventilation is excellent - 90 degree dry weather OK, 100+ with cooling vest OK. The hi-viz is very conspicuous, though light color is prone to showing dirt after first wear. Sizing is generous. I have a 44" chest and 34" arms and the Large is plenty big.
Cons - the collar is terrible. I have a 16" neck and this collar will easily fit an 18" neck, but it still chokes my throat. This is a bad design. There is no way you can close the Velcro tab and not fold material that rests on your throat. For one thing, the tab is too short. But mostly, there is something wrong with the design of the collar. Notice the models? There's not one picture of someone wearing the jacket zipped all the way up. Now I know why.I can't wear it like this either. I did for a 4-hour ride and it was very annoying. It may be that having the vents open pulls the jacket back against the throat, but I have other jackets that vent and don't choke. Comments: Arm vents - good idea, they work but all that material is bulky if you ever have bend your arms, like when fastening your helmet strap. Lining material - feels tacky on bare arms. Something less slick would be better - only matters in warm weather. Protection - elbow and shoulder pads are good. Back pad should be upgraded. Pockets - waterproof and almost hand-proof, not so useful when it's hard to get stuff in and out. Overall - I'll probably keep the jacket because it meets the needs I bought it for, though still debating because of the collar issue. I can probably get away with leaving the collar open to relieve the choking.
I bought this mainly for hi-visibility. For that, it excels.
Wolfman Complete Rotopax Kit Wolfman now has a method to extra carry fuel or water on the Wolfman Side Racks. The mounting plate allows you to mount a Rotopax 1 gallon fuel or water pack and still use the Wolfman Expedition Dry or Teton saddle bags. The laser cut mounting plate is crafted from 6061 aircraft aluminum, and utilizes a stable and solid 4 point mounting to the racks. Requires Wolfman Side Racks to mount (sold separately). Features 1/8 Laser cut 6061 aircraft aluminum mounting plate All mounting hardware. Mounting instructions Kit Includes 1 Wolfman Mounting Plate Mounting hardware 1 1-Gallon RotoPax Fuel or Water Pack 1 Roto Pax Mount Please note Wolfman does not recommend any size larger than 1 gallon, luggage racks and dry bags sold separately. Kit includes either one Rotopax Water Pack or one Rotopax Fuel Pack, not both.
Can the RotoPax kit be mounted on either side of the Wolfman Expedition racks?