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 lead an annual summer tour in various parts of the USA. I post reviews about motorcycle gear, motorcycles, roads, restaurants, sights, gadgets and more. Check out the "Motorcycle Facts,Trivia and History" page, the "Oz on Pods" page and the other pages for other useful and fun information. Ride carefully and Prayerfully, Oz.
Showing posts with label Rocky boots. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Rocky boots. Show all posts

Thursday, November 28, 2024

Awesome Christmas Gifts For Motorcycle Riders


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!    
  
Connect and follow Biker Oz on the following:

        https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100009663932095

Ordinary Biker Oz YouTube Channel has video reviews and more
Please visit the following great companies:

 

* 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 

Sunday, March 1, 2020

Best Motorcycle Boots

 It isn't always sunny
If you ever had to ride for very many miles with soggy socks and wet feet you know the importance of waterproof riding boots.  The experience of riding with wet feet is so uncomfortable. It can destroy the enjoyment of the entire ride.
Photo by Bruno Kelzer on Unsplash
Learning the Hard Way
I learned the importance of quality waterproof boots when I attended my first benefit ride in 2004.  It was a VFW Poker Run on a drizzly Saturday.  I was so excited as I geared up and put on my boots, which were water resistant at best.  After 30 minutes of riding in drizzle and light rain my boots, socks and feet were thoroughly soaked. I finished the poker run and ended with the second place hand, but I hated every squishy step I had to take.  After getting home and drying out, I decided to make sure I would never go through that unpleasant experience again.


Not Everyone has Learned the Same Lesson
Amazingly I have known many new and experienced motorcycle riders who spent good money for a nice helmet, a protective jacket, gloves and reinforced riding jeans or riding pants, but overlooked waterproof protection for his or her feet.  Choosing a great waterproof motorcycle boot is very important, especially if one plans to ride a lot and/or on longer trips.  Weather can change quickly and a rider needs to be prepared.  Good boots also provide protection in case of an accident or mishap.
On a recent ride with a local group I noticed this person is not ready for rain or a accident
My First Two Pairs
My first pair of waterproof boots were the Harley Davidson FXRG-2 (now discontinued) boots. They worked great and were comfortable, but a little pricey.  When it came time to replace them I started researching waterproof riding footwear. There were a lot of options with a wide price range.

After reading reviews and shopping around for over four months I decided my next pair of boots would be a pair of Rocky boots.  Rocky claimed the boots were waterproof, so I took a chance and ordered a pair of 8 inch boots with side zippers.
After years of use and miles of riding it was time to retire the Rocky boots
At the time I purchased them I did not think of photographing them, but wished I had.  I found the boots comfortable from the very beginning.  I wore the boots while riding in multiple states and in Europe through all types of weather conditions.  In June 2017 I rode in the Alps in Switzerland and Italy.  I had plenty of opportunities to ride in the rain and the boots lived up to the waterproof claim. 
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Comparison of the older soles with the new boot's sole.
For over 6 years and literally 100,000+ miles of riding the boots were found to be comfortable, durable, breathable and they kept my feet dry during the most heavy rain storms and warm in cold weather.  They were comfortable even for a day of walking when I wasn't on the bike. The non-slip soles claim proved to be true and were very durable.
The full grain leather looks great and can take a lot of usage. 
The Rocky boots (I am not 100% sure what the model was, but if it was not the Alpha Force it was the almost just like them) performed so well for me I decided I wanted another pair of Rocky's.

The seams never loosened or broke
My lovely wife surprised me at Christmas with the latest Rocky Alpha Force zippered boot!  I was so pumped.  Coming right out of the box they looked great and the leather felt strong.  The workmanship and materials are high quality.  The zipper is sturdy with big teeth and a large pull and slider makes it easy to secure.  I love the zippered boot.  The zipper makes it quick and easy to put on or take off the boot and the tightness of the laces stay consistent.

Santa a.k.a Jennifer gave me a great pair of waterproof boots
Made with full grain leather and 1000 denier nylon fabric the boot was a little stiff, but with use has softened up.  Rocky states "...boots have been built with Rocky waterproof construction, this creates a barrier that is guaranteed to keep water out".
The fit and finish is top notch
My feet are cradled by the soft insole which is very supportive and comfortable while riding or walking.  The out-sole has effective grip and is advertised as non-marking and resistant to oil and slipping. When I place my feet down during a stop I have a firm base and feel very secure.
Non-marking, non-slip absorbent soles

Full-grain leather will hold up to the demands of riding
 Riding with Confidence
Indication from my first pair of Rocky boots is that the leather and soles will hold up under a great deal of wear including the toe shifter.  The 8 inch boot provides support for the ankle and coverage for the lower calf, which is important in case of an accident.

I am looking forward to many miles and hopefully dry miles, but if it rains I know my feet will stay dry and comfortable in my Alpha Force Boots by Rocky.  When it comes time for your next pair of boots consider Rocky Boots.
Ride carefully and prayerfully!    
  
Connect and follow Biker Oz on the following:

        https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100009663932095

Ordinary Biker Oz YouTube Channel has video reviews and more
Please visit the following great companies:

 

* 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