Cycle Matters "Holiday Wish List" for motorcyclists - 2010
Cycle Matters Editors - Dec 3, 2010

Cycle Matters editorial staff selected these top 10 gifts for the biker on your list who has almost everything.  These items – individually or collectively – will put a smile on any biker’s face and are sure to add value to motorcycling experiences and adventures.   Recommended gifts range from $10.00 to $2,000.

Throughout the year, we watch for and test products that we think will be of interest to you. Some of those items have the distinction of making our Holiday Wish List; items we would like to receive for the holidays.  Cycle Matters is not compensated for products we recommend. Our goal is to provide you with product information you can trust.

1.  D.O.C. Reversible Safety Vest: $109.95 - The Don’t Overlook Cyclists, DOC, vest was developed to make riders more visible and ultimately safer. The D.O.C. vest is a reversible vest with a hidden zippered access panel along the bottom to allow patches and pins to be applied without affecting the opposite side.  The outer shell is made of full grain, top quality black leather with two snap pockets.  The inner shell resists wind and rain, and is constructed using Fluorescent Cordura Nylon.  3M Scotchlite reflective tape accents the Fluorescent inner shell for higher visibility in low light situations.  There is also one zippered pocket on the left chest of the inner shell.  Click here to order your DOC vest. 

2. Rider’s Claw Motorcycle Mounts for Apple media devices: $94.00 to $114.00 - These sleek iPod Nano™, iPod Touch™, iPhone 3GS™, iPhone 4™ and Android mounts secure directly to your existing clutch/mirror bracket, giving you clear visibility and easy access to controlling the music you want to listen to as you ride on down the road. You customize your tunes; now accessorize them on your Harley-Davidson motorcycle (adapts to metric cruisers), with style.  

Every Rider’s Claw is precision manufactured in the USA from high quality US materials. Slide it in, admire the look, and go.  Click here to learn more and make your purchase. 

3. Mustang Seats: Up to $500.00 - Mustang's president and founder, Al Simmons, started Mustang in 1980. Under his leadership, Mustang has grown to be a worldwide leader in the design and construction of motorcycle seats. Al has traveled to every state and listened to thousands of motorcycle riders. This, complemented by his years of riding experience, forms the basis of his unique understanding of what riders need, and the essentials of seat design to address these needs. Mustang motorcycle seats are designed for all-day riding comfort for both the driver and passenger.  Click here to learn more about the Mustang Seat that is the right gift for you. 

4.  Motorcycle Bike Condom: $9.99 - The original BikeCondom provides pocket-sized protection for your motorcycle. The single-size BikeCondom is designed to work on all bikes, but the fit will vary based on your motorcycle's size and fairings.

It comes in a recloseable package, so a BikeCondom can be reused multiple times if desired. Since BikeCondoms are inexpensive and made from environmentally friendly materials, use it once and throw it away. Guilt-free! You never know when you'll need one! The original BikeCondom was a WINNER in the Kickstart New Product Contest at the 2010 Dealer Expo.   Click here to shop! 

5.  “Motorcycle Tire Changes and Repairs” DVD by Best Rest Products: $20.00 - Tire changes and repairs are actually pretty easy once you understand the basics and learn a few simple tricks. This DVD shows you easy step-by-step tire changing and tire repair procedures. With knowledge comes power - the power to do it.   Click here to purchase this DVD. 

6. Heated clothing: $59.95 to $369.95 - Heated gear is a thoughtful gift for those tough, old bikers on your holiday gift list. A warm rider is a safer rider, and he or she can ride more days out of the year; i.e., go farther, go longer! Gloves, liners, jackets, socks, and pants are some of your choices in heated clothing. Choices of brand are also many. Gerbing is a great choice because of the quality of their products. Click here to shop for quality-heated gear. Prices range from $59.95 for insoles to 369.95 for outerwear. 

7. H-D Fit Shop: $100.00 to $2000.00+ - Find a Fit Shop near you. Motorcycle dealers are becoming increasingly aware that the fit of a motorcycle is crucial to motorcyclists’ enjoyment over the long haul. The result is that “Fit Shops” are popping up in dealer showrooms. Typically, a fit consultation includes consideration of: seat height, position of foot controls, handlebars, and front and rear suspension, etc. Give your motorcycling spouse or friend a gift card toward a new seat, set of handlebars, etc., along with an invitation to get a “Fit Shop” consultation at your dealer of choice. Dial 303-287-7567 and ask for Reed. He will be happy to answer your questions and recommend a fit shop near you.

8. Bike locking system: Up to $1000.00 - Motorcycle security is a concern for motorcyclists. In 2009, 56,000 bikes were reported stolen. While we cannot recommend a specific locking or security system, we recommend you shop around and find a heavy-duty, locking system made of hardened steel, (locks installed on a motorcycle are usually stolen along with the motorcycle) or consider a stolen vehicle recovery system: e.g., LoJack, Guidepoint Systems, and CycleTrak GPS, to name a few. It may be costly, but could provide peace of mind and if the bike is stolen, could help in recovery. A gift card toward a stolen recovery system may be the best choice, could create insurance savings when installed, and most importantly, may preserve a favorite ride.

9.  Buff: Starting at $20.00 - Originally introduced on the TV show Survivor, a Buff is a versatile tubular piece of fabric measuring 20” by 9” when laid out flat and weighs less than 2 ounces.  When folded, a Buff will fit in your pocket and you will hardly know it is there until you need it.  The original Buff comes in over 150 different designs, including some cool motorcycle prints.  One size fits most adults. The Buff is one of the most versatile additions to a motorcyclists travel gear. Click here for more information on Buffs. 

10. Safety class: ~$100.00, price varies by provider -Motorcycle safety is not something motorcyclists can take for granted.   It is estimated that 90% of fatalities involve motorcyclists that have not experienced formal safety training. It is a documented fact that 70% of all motorcyclists have had no formal safety training.   Click here to locate safety classes in your area.  Then offer to register your motorcycle riding spouse, son, daughter, relative, or friend in a motorcycle safety class by paying the registration fee. A great gift! You can never learn too much.