Awesome Christmas Gifts For Motorcycle Riders

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Shopping for Christmas gifts can often be difficult.  Trying to find something a person will like, but doesn't already have, takes time and sometimes creativity. Motorcycle accessories and gear can be expensive so many people resort to less than personal gift cards.

Here are some affordable gift ideas that most bikers will enjoy and find useful.. Although numbered, the list is in no particular order and with the exception of the fifth item, I will receive NO compensation or consideration from any of the companies mentioned, even if you buy from them.

Happy shopping for your biker!

A Book Motorcycle Riders Will Love

1) If your motorcyclists loves traveling and quality photographs France in America will make him/her smile.  After retiring Gary France from London, England shipped his Harley Davidson RoadKing to New York City, NY and began a 6 month, 21,475 mile trip to fulfill his dream of riding across America. 

While riding in 27 states he experienced some of America's greatest sites. roads, food and people. He documented his travels with professional quality photographs and writing that pulls the reader along on the ride.  This is an inspirational travelogue coffee table that is also a great resource for trip planning.  Any biker or adventurer will enjoy this book.   Order Here at France in America

Three action packed road racing series

 

2) Finding motorcycle racing on television (free) is extremely difficult if not impossible, but it is one of the most thrilling sports to watch and I haven't found many riders who does not enjoy watching good motorcycle racing.  A subscription to a racing series would be a welcomed surprise a rider.  One would enjoy the gift for a year and share with friends with a "watching party."  There are several series but here are my three favorite:

MotoGP World Championship - the world's best riders on prototype machines.  The subscription includes years of previous races, interviews, technical explanations, documentaries, highlights, practice sessions, qualifying sessions and races for all four classes in the championship: MotoGP, Moto2, Moto3 and MotoE.  Races can be watched live or on demand afterwards.  With 20+ rounds there are plenty of races for the money.

World Superbike Championship (WSBK) - modified production motorcycles ridden by world class riders.  This subscription also includes years of previous races for all four classes in the championship: Superbikes, Supersports, Supersports300 and Women’s Circuit Racing World Championship (WCR).  Races can be watched live or on demand afterwards. WSBK has 12 rounds with two or more races per class each round.

MotoAmerica -  Ten round series in the United States of America. There are eight classes using different size production motorcycles modified within the specifications.  MotoAmerica includes the wildly popular King of the Baggers.  Although this is a national series there is an international flavor as there are numerous riders from other countries including riders from the two world series.  MotoAmerica has become extremely competitive and highly respected globally.  Watch the rising stars where many have moved to the world stage after successful seasons.

Dixxon Flannels are high quality and a great value.

3) Dixxon Flannel Shirts - This is a great company that my son introduced me to a few years back.  They make flannel shirts, short sleeved shirts, t-shirts and more.  High quality, stylish and comfortable shirts that can be worn when riding or when out and about.  For riders who want to ride even when temperatures are less than ideal the flannel shirts provide comfort and warmth.   Dixxon.com

Rocky Boots Alpha Force - side zipped, comfortable and waterproof

 

4) Rocky Boots - Comfort, ankle and foot protection, waterproof, side zipper, non-slip soles, durable - all are characteristics of  the Alpha Force Rocky Boots.  I got my first pair in 2014 and wore them for 6 years.  I am now heading into my fifth year with my second pair and they are still in great shape.  When needing to ride in the rain they have never failed me.  These are great waterproof boots for an affordable price.  Check out the Alpha Force and many other styles and models - Rocky Boots

 

 

5) Duke Cannon - Christmas 2019 I received some Duke Cannon soap and shampoo.  I immediately enjoyed the funny and direct packaging/marketing Duke Cannon uses i.e. "Not for clowns" was part of directions for the shampoo.  I also was happy to see the company's commitment to financially supporting our military.  The bar soap and many fragrances were inspired by our American soldiers.  They have a wide range of products for hair, body, face, beard and more.  Ever Duke product I have used have been excellent quality.  Since that Christmas I have used Duke Cannon products exclusively. 

Full disclosure -this is the only company on this list of which I am an affiliate partner.  So if you follow this link and purchase I will receive a small commission. 

Still riding even when it is cold outside

 

6) Fleece Lined Jeans - about 8 years ago I discovered fleece-lined jeans at Cabela's and decided to try them during an upcoming charity event.  I was not disappointed.  The jeans are comfortable, durable and the fleece lining feels great.   After the event I purchased a second pair in order to be prepared for cold weather riding, camping or any outside endeavor during the winter.  I have used them multiple times.  Here is a video review I did with more info.

7) Haul Master Wheel Cleaning Stand - I have NEVER had one of these, but I want one.  Just recently saw one at Harbor Freight and love the idea.  As I have gotten older and now own a "bagger," cleaning that rear wheel is difficult.  Getting up and down to move the bike 1/8 to 1/4 wheel turn is tough on this old man.  If I could stay down, rotate the wheel and keep cleaning it would be much nicer.  Maybe Santa will bring me one.

Ride carefully and prayerfully!    

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Connect and follow Biker Oz on the following:

        

Ordinary Biker Oz YouTube Channel has video reviews and more

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Come Ride With Us 

Please visit the following great companies:

THE ESSENTIALS FOR MODERATE SELF-IMPROVEMENT

 

Awesome gear for every rider!

* I have personally ordered from and/or visited these businesses and based on my experiences I recommend this company.  I have an affiliate relationship with the businesses, 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.

 

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6 

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Best Motorcycle Road Trip Book

Photo by freddie marriage on Unsplash

 Motorcycle Books

I have enjoyed reading some of the best motorcycle books available, although I do not seem to have as much time as I wish for reading.  I have read books about the motorcycle club life, about the therapeutic qualities of riding, about trips taken on motorcycles and how to properly ride a motorcycle.  I have read books written by motorcycle club members, law enforcement personnel, daily riders, long distance riders and a musician who rode.

However, when I find a book about motorcycling, written by a motorcyclist and includes great photos I have found a book worth the time and expense.  Bikers seem to have the ability to relate the information in terms another biker understands. 

When I consider all the motorcycle related books I have read, one stands out as the best.  This book was written by motorcyclist, Gary France about his 21,000 mile trip through the United States of America and includes life details leading up to his adventure and including his adventure.  His trip "over the pond" from England and the ride through the USA is titled "France in America."  I find it funny we have France from England writing about America.

It All Started With a Blog

Gary started blogging about his upcoming motorcycle trip in September 2009, although he had began his initial planning around Christmas 2007.  He soon began posting updates on his plan and his research and acquisition of items he wanted for his trip of the USA.  Many bloggers were able to give him opinions, reviews and insights into gear, accessories, attractions, roads and more which helped Gary with his planning.

Gary's route for his amazing trip  Photo by Gary.  Used with his permission.

In January 2008 Gary commented on my blog's post concerning Spearfish Canyon, SD.  Through some comments back and forth I was able to help him post hyperlinks in his blog posts.  From there I started following his preparations and his trip.  I was able to suggest some roads, restaurants and sights.  We have not met face to face, but hopefully  we will in the future.

THE ESSENTIALS FOR MODERATE SELF-IMPROVEMENT

Gary continued to post periodically as the trip neared.  By the time he arrived to the United States several bloggers had arranged to meet him at various times and locations on route.  I was unable to work it out, especially since I was in Texas.  I visited Yellowstone Natinal Park for my summer motorcycle trip, but I was there in June/July and Gary arrived in Yellowstone National  Park in August.  We just could not meet up.

Gary experiences a "Bison Jam" in Yellowstone National Park.  Photo by Gary.  Used with his permission.

Yellowstone Canyon.  Photo by Gary.  Used with his permission.

Sharing The Trip

Gary's photographic talents were evident.  The photos he posted were beautiful and he wrote just as well.  It was not long until he had a large following.  If you go to his blog (although he stopped posting on his "Flies in your Teeth" in October 2016) you can see his original photos on the blog.

Gary visited Bishops Castle in Colorado.  Photo of Gary's book

Gary visited so many great places that most Americans haven't seen.  He rode along the northern states and down through the Rocky Mountains.  Gary would stop every time his motorcycle's odometer rolled over another 1,000 miles and capture the moment.

Big Horn Canyon   Photo by Gary.  Used with his permission.

One of Gary's 1,000 miles photos.  Photo by Gary.  Used with his permission.

 Miles and Miles to Pages and Pages

As his trip was nearing an end readers started encouraging him to publish a book.  After he recovered back in England he mulled over the idea of a book.  After some time he decided to publish a book of his trip.

He includes his personal story that brought him to the point of retirement, trip planning, the sights and people on his trip and later the book itself.

Pikes Peak Highway  - Photo by Gary.  Used with his permission.

The book is a great resource for anyone wanting to plan a trip.  He includes details and information that is not always covered in traditional travel books.  His personal story and his approach to the photographs make the book come alive.  The book is full of high quality photographs that will pull at your adventurous heart.

Million Dollar Highway in Colorado.    Photo by Gary.  Used with his permission.

Virginia City, California - Old West feel.  Photo by Gary.  Used with his permission.

Not Just for Bikers

I highly recommend France in America for anyone interested in traveling American.  It is more than just a "motorcycle" book.  It is a book about the desire for adventure, the enjoyment of new horizons and the appeal and uniqueness of these United States.  All of this from the view point of an Englishman from England.

Gary's Generous Offer

Gary offered to send his book to everyone who made a comment on his blog during the actual trip.  I took him up on that offer.  When I received the book in 2013 I was so impressed the quality and quantity of the book.  This is a high quality book with vivid photographs and impelling writing.  I have referred to it often and spent time just looking at the photos.  I have shared the book with close friends and I have recommended it frequently.  Do yourself a favor and get the best motorcycle book out there.

Helpful with my trip plans

When I was I planning my week of riding in the Alps in 2017 Gary provided me with great information and suggestions of roads, laws, etiquette in Europe and other helpful tips.  His knowledge of riding in Europe is extensive. 

Gary Keeps Rollin'

Gary now owns and runs TOUR1 a motorcycle tour company in England.  TOUR1 provides many tour options, including a WWII D-Day Landing Tour.  I have it on my list to go on one or more of the tours in the years to come.  If you have desire to tour Europe on a motorcycle you should visit Gary's TOUR1.

Ride carefully and prayerfully!    

 Top Five Oz Videos

  

Connect and follow Biker Oz on the following:

        

Ordinary Biker Oz YouTube Channel has video reviews and more

Christian Motorcyclists Association

Come Ride With Us 

Please visit the following great companies:

THE ESSENTIALS FOR MODERATE SELF-IMPROVEMENT

 

Awesome gear for every rider!

* I have personally ordered from and/or visited these businesses and based on my experiences I recommend this company.  I have an affiliate relationship with the businesses, 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.

 

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6 

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An Epic Trip Across America - France in America

In June, 2010 fellow blogger, motorcyclist and long-trip rider started a 21,000 miles through 27 states of the USA (link to day one of trip).  Prior to the trip he spend months researching, purchasing and preparing for the epic adventure which included shipping his bike from England to New York City in America.

During Gary France's research he came across my blog.  He read and commented on my post about Spearfish Canyon we corresponded and read each others blog.  I found his pending trip fascinating and I was jealous.

Photo from Gary's website
 

Many motorcyclists found his blog and began following his prep and his trip.  His posts were informative and well-written.  His photos were AWESOME (check out his photos of Yellowstone NP) and his numerous videos were of equal quality (link to one video).  I especially liked his 1,000 miles photos - a picture taken of his bike (check out the great paint job) each time he logged 1,000 miles (link).

By the end of his trip he was being encouraged to write a book about his trip.  After some relaxing back home in England he decided he would publish his tale and a lot of his photos.  All who were following his blog were very happy of his decision.  He kept us updated on the progress of the writing/publishing of the book.

Gary offered to send anyone who had posted a comment to his blog, during the trip, a complimentary copy of his book "France in America"!  His generosity is humbling and greatly appreciated.

Cover photo of book - taken from Gary's website

When I received my book it was like Christmas!  I was blown away by the size (400 page) of the coffee-table book.  The quality is top-notch with a first-class finish.

France in America takes the reader from New York City to Los Angeles through 27 states, numerous national parks, past great vistas and introduces the reader to some of Americas best citizens.  He shares facts, details and his heart.  His photos serve up a wide variety of beauty the USA has to offer.

The route of his trip

I highly recommend France in America for anyone who loves motorcycles, traveling or Americana.  Readers will enjoy each page of stories, insights, details and photos. The book is awesome! You will not be disappointed with your purchase.  Purchase the book through Gary's book site or Amazon.

Also check out Gary's website.  He has all kinds of info including many other tours he has taken in Europe.  His vast riding experiences and thorough planning makes for great trips and great reading.  Any of us on the USA side of the pond should contact him before experiencing Europe.  He can provide great info.

Thanks Gary for the incredible book and for sharing your experiences with all of us.  I apologize for the tardiness of this overdue review of France in America.  

 

Ride carefully and prayerfully!   

 

 Top Five Oz Videos

  

Connect and follow Biker Oz on the following:

              

 

Please visit the following great companies:

THE ESSENTIALS FOR MODERATE SELF-IMPROVEMENT

 

Awesome gear for every rider!

Christian Motorcyclists Association

Come Ride With Us 

Ordinary Biker Oz YouTube Channel has video reviews and more

* I have personally ordered from and/or visited these businesses and based on my experiences I recommend this company.  I have an affiliate relationship with the businesses, 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.

 

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6 

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