I am an ordinary guy who enjoys riding motorcycles. I love riding all makes and models. I love short rides, long rides, and multi-day road trips. I post reviews about motorcycle gear, motorcycles, roads, restaurants, sights, gadgets and more. The Motorcycle Facts,Trivia and History page has a lot of good info. Be safe and enjoy the ride, Oz.

Wednesday, February 18, 2015

Leather Jacket review

The VikingCycle Bloodaxe Leather Jacket is made from quality buffalo leather and is sold by Motorcycle House for $99 (as of Feb, 2015) with free shipping in the USA on orders over $89.
http://www.motorcyclehouse.com/vikingcycle-cruiser-jackets-for-men-291-mnf-2100-ctg.htm
Men's Jackets                              Women Jackets

I received my jacket 3 days after the order was placed.  My initial reaction to the jacket was very good.  The jacket is made with quality leather and feels very strong.  Stitching is solid, zippers are heavy duty and armor is typical for motorcycle jackets.  The removable armor includes back, elbows and shoulders.
The jacket has two front zippered pockets, a right sleeve key pocket, two chest vents and two back vents.  The sleeve key pocket is an interesting feature and I believe I will use it.  Cuffs have zippers to allow for bigger openings when needed.
Right sleeve key pocket
The removable quilted lining has one zippered pocket on the right side, two smaller pockets and two pen holders on the left chest.  The leather jacket has two zippered pockets (one on each side).  I like having pockets so this is a positive for me.  When the lining is removed only the two zippered pockets are left.
Right inside pocket
Left side pockets
Side and back reflective stripes not only provide added visibility, but adds to the stylish look.  The back zippered vents allow for air to flow through when riding on warmer days.
 The Velcro side adjustment straps allow for customizing fitting. 
Pros:
Durable leather
Reflective stipes
Thick leather that will protect a rider 
Armor (removable allows for daily or non-riding wear)
Speedy and friendly service from Motorcycle House
Vents and removable lining
Pockets! (but don't like losing 3 when the lining is removed)
Value - big bang for the bucks  
The quilted shoulders give a nice look, but sleeves are too long
Cons:
Weight (using nurses scales - 4.8lbs without the armor)
Sleeve length (I am use to sleeves being a little long, but these cover over 1/2 my hand, and yes I know I am short :)   5'6")
Cuff openings - big even when zipped - difficult time getting gloves over the cuffs before riding
Overall I like the jacket.  Being in North Texas I will not have weather cold enough to wear the jacket often.  Even with the lining out the jacket is very warm.  I can see wearing the jacket when not on the bike.  It is nice enough for casual wear and/or jeans.

The Bloodaxe Leather Jacket is a great bargain.  It is far superior to many budget jackets and yet is does not break the bank.  
With the overall quality and value offered by Motorcycle House and the review of one of their trunks at Utah Motorcyclist I can see ordering other items in the future. 
 
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* I have personally ordered from and/or visited this business and based on my experiences I recommend this company.  I have an affiliate relationship with this business, which means if you follow this link and purchase, I will receive a small commission and will get to ride more!

# Based on reviews, word of mouth and discussion with others I recommend this company.  I have an affiliate relationship with this business, which means if you follow this link and purchase, I will receive a small commission and will get to ride more!
 
Feedback on these businesses is appreciated.  You may comment below.

 

Thursday, February 5, 2015

Rocky Mountain Pizza

When traveling you can find some great local restaurants that help to make the trip memorable.  The one of a kind, family owned, friendly eatery you enjoy telling your friends about (or in my case I enjoy posting about them).

I have found two pizza places in Colorado which belong in that category of great finds.  Beau Jo's in Idaho Springs (has 8 locations, but to me it is still a "local" place) and Poker Alice in Lake City are among my favorite for a good meal with a relaxing atmosphere and mountain views.

This post is about Beau Jo's.  Later on I will post about Poker Alice.

 Photo from Beau Jo's website
Idaho Springs sits between exits 239 and 241on I-70 west of Denver.  The Colorado Gold Rush had its first significant find in Idaho Springs.  Old mines and equipment can still be seen in town.  Beau Jo's is located at 1515 Miner Street one block north of I-70.  

Beau Jo's menu has a lot of choices. Pizza, salads, sandwiches, calzones, Beaughetti (spaghetti service in a pizza crust bowl) and much more.  For the pizzas they offer 4 different crusts, 10 sauces, 9 cheeses, 14 meats, 19 fruit & vegetables (with several gluten free options)!  Wow, the combination possibilities!
Photo from Trip Advisor
I have personally eaten at the Idaho Springs Beau Jo's three times and when they had a place in Old Colorado Springs I visited 3-5 times.  I have always been satisfied.  The flavor is great, the ingredients are fresh and of high quality and the service is on the spot!

I really like the thick outer crust of the pizza.  Beau Jo's provides honey on the table so you can enjoy the outer crust with some honey and butter for dessert.  It is great and unique.

Before or after your ride up Mount Evans (one of my favorite scenic roads) stop by Beau Jo's for some pizza pie.  You will love it!