Cycle Matters' Editors Christmas list 2008
Maverick - Dec 12, 2008

 

1.       Global Position System (GPS)

·         New users will be amazed at the functionality of Garmin’s Zumo 550.  Yes, there are other GPS systems, and yes, we are partial to the Zumo 550 which can be purchased ready to operate for just under $1,000. The BMW Motorrad Navigator III, Buell zkmo GPS Navigator, and Harley-Davidson Road Tech are brand specific adaptations that provide many useful features and enhance the ride beyond your imagination. Each work handily when traveling in other vehicles. Learn more at http://garmin.com.
 

2.       Light Night (NL):

·         The Light Knight is a small, inconspicuous, completely self-contained traffic light changer designed specifically for your motorcycle, moped or scooter.  For $13.95, this little item will keep bikers moving down the highway, and it is perfectly legal in 50 states according to claims by the distributor. Install a Light Knight traffic light changer in minutes and stop getting stuck at those pesky traffic lights that just will not give you your turn. Learn more at http://www.thelightknight.com. 

 

3.       Heated gear:

·         Heated gear is a must have, and we strongly recommend Gerbing Heated clothing at www.gerbing.com. Having ridden a Christmas Toy Run several ago at -25 degrees, be assured that, in addition to being warm when wearing heated gear, you are safer because your extremities actually function, because it is light-weight and versatile, and you can travel with less gear.   Click here for a Cycle Matters editor review of Gerbing's heated jacket liner.
 
                            

4.       Scooters or Electric Motorcycles:     

·         Going green is in, and there are many choices of scooters in a wide price and performance range. Cycle Matters founders are in line for a Zero X electric motorcycle. “With its impressive performance capabilities and low cost per mile, the Zero X is our choice.” Click here to view Cycle Matters list of gas and electric choices.

 

5.       Quality helmet:

·         Spend the money and buy a good helmet! Cycle Matters editors have tested many helmets, and there continue to be many excellent choices. We are certain of this: invest in a good one. It will change your riding experience. If you are looking for a gift for that special motorcyclist in your life, a quality helmet will change their riding experience and keep them safer on the road. 
 

6.       JP Cycles Gift Card or Gold Card  to customize, customize, and customize:

·         A gift certificate allows each rider to select the perfect accessories for their bike.   Black is beautiful, and many motorcycle riders enjoy the growing list of black metal flake, black anodized, and black this and that to accentuate the heart and soul of the motorcyclists passion. Look for black: wheels, pipes, handlebars, shifters, pegs, grips, levers, and the list goes on.  If black is not for you, JPCycles has a great selection of chrome and accessories from which to choose.  Gift cards begin at $20.00 and a Gold Card costs $49.99.

Click here to browse JP Cycles parts and assessories.

7.       Battery Tender:

·         A Battery Tender extends the life of your battery and assures your bike will start first time every time provided the operator has attended to basic maintenance requirements; e.g., a full tank of gas when stored, oil change regularly – used or not – and efficient electrical systems.
 

8.       Motorcycle Safety Course

·         In case you haven’t heard; motorcycle fatalities continue to rise in all regions of the world. At least anywhere motorcyclists ride. Real motorcyclists deflect the discussion about safety to years of riding experience and hundreds of thousands of miles. Here is a bit of wisdom for all motorcyclists: along with the maturation of motorcyclists comes the reduction of sensory capacities.  We can all learn and improve our skills with a motorcycle safety training course; available in basic and advanced skill levels. For information on training resources in your area, contact the Motorcycle Safety Foundation: http://www.msf-usa.org. Enrollment costs vary by provider and training courses.
 

9.       AMA Membership:

·         The American Motorcycle Association invests in the future of motorcycling by working with government officials to provide policy recommendations and education on issues facing motorcyclists – on and off-road. In addition, AMA sanctions road and off-road riding activities and negotiates money saving discounts for its members. Memberships start at $39.00 per year.

Click here for more information on the American Motorcycle Association. 
 

10.   Michael Lichter photos:

·         You will be impressed by the scope of Michael Lichter’s photography. Motorcycle and commercial assignments have taken Michael across America and abroad to Canada, Europe, Japan, Mexico and New Zealand.  While he has published more than 1,000 articles on motorcycling and custom bikes, he has also photographed annual reports, product photography, advertising, brochures and posters.  His commercial motorcycle work has grown over the years to include magazines around the world and commercial clients like Indian Motorcycles, Big Dog Motorcycles, Wiley-X Sunglasses, Harley-Davidson, Nikon Cameras and many of the best custom bike builders in America.

To find a photo, check out your options at http://www.lichterphoto.com.
 

At this time in 2009, watch for more d3o protective and safety apparel to be available for motorcyclists:

 

d3o is a specially engineered material made with intelligent molecules. The molecules flow with you as you move, but on shock lock together to absorb the impact energy.

 

Go to http://www.d3o.com for more information on this amazing product. 
 

The staff of Cycle Matters is interested in your comments about this article. 

 

If you are already a member of Cycle Matters, click on “Comment” at the end of this article to add your comments.

 

You must be a member of Cycle Matters to add comments. Membership is free! 

 

To become a member, click on My Garage, input your profile, and save it. You will receive an e-mail message asking you to verify your membership by clicking on the enclosed link. As a member of Cycle Matters, you are able to post your comments on this and any other article on this website. Log in and share your thoughts with the Cycle Matters community of motorcycle enthusiasts.