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.

DukeCannon manly soaps, shampoo and more!

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. 

Awesome gear for every rider!

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. 

Awesome gear for every rider!

Time For New Boots

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!    

 Top Five Oz Videos

  

Connect and follow Biker Oz on the following:

        

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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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Honda VFR 1200 Review

Sport Touring Bike #2

The Honda VFR 1200 is my second sport touring motorcycle and here is a 11,000+ miles review of the 2012 VFR 1200.  Updated at 60,000+ miles

March 23, 2014 

 Shopping for a new Bike

I wasn't looking at the VFR originally, but a friend and R1 rider at the time suggested I consider it.  After some research on my own I decided I should at least sit on a VFR. 

I had a Yamaha FJR 1300 for almost 4 years (60,000+ miles) and was considering another one along with the Aprilla Copone and VFR.  After sitting on all three, looking at options, features, maintenance, insurance and overall "gut" reaction I decided the VFR was top of the three and I should test ride it. 

June 2014 ride to Nocona, Texas

My First Honda

After the test ride the negotiations began.  The discounted price was a big "plus" along with the fact my insurance company priced it as a two year old bike. Saddlebags would have to be ordered, but I could roll the cost into the final amount.
 
On May 31, 2014 I bought my first Honda motorcycle.  A new 2012 VFR 1200 with less than 5 miles on it, even after Mac and I took test rides on it.  For reasons unknown to me the VFR 1200 does not sell that well here in the USA, so this brand new two year old bike was mine at a great price.

The fit and finish is top of the line.  The sleek lines and curves gives the impression the bike is "fast" and the looks are not deceiving.  The 1237cc V4 produces smooth consistent power.  The stock seat is plenty comfortable for me and I have never felt like changing it.

Making it My Bike

I was not as confident as I wanted to be with the stock tires, but once I mounted the Michelin Pilot Road 2, confidence in the curves increased greatly.  I have since used the PR3 and PR4, both great tires.

I ordered the saddlebags for the bike, they do not come stock. I replaced the stock windsheild with the  Zero Gravity windshield.  The tinted windshield looks good and greatly reduced buffeting. I swapped the big bulky stock exhaust with the Two Brothers slip-on exhaust, which greatly improved the looks and the sounnd of the bike as well as dropping 12 lbs! 

I added T-Rex Racing sliders and Grip Buddies. I wanted to sit up more so I changed the clip on handlebars to Helibars.  I loved the comfort and the improved feel I had of the bike/road connection.
The Grip Buddies were added because I like the comfort of the bigger grip and the vibration reducing neoprene.

I added the Givi 46 litter top case since I am able to do a good amount of multi-day trips.  The Givi is durable, convenient and well made.  It is also a substantially less expensive than the OEM top case. 

Zero Gravity tinted windshield is about 2 inches taller than stock and works great.

THE ESSENTIALS FOR MODERATE SELF-IMPROVEMENT

 That's a Wrap!

After about 2 years I decided to have a good friend put a wrap on the bike.  I knew what I wanted so I discussed it with Mike.  I left the VFR with him while I was riding in the Alps in Italy and Switzerland.  When I returned I was blown away by the work Mike had done!

In Wyoming on my way to Alaska.

In Wyoming on our way to Alaska

 June 2014 on US129 a.k.a The Tail of the Dragon - photo by Killboy.com

Putting on the Miles

I have commuted, ridden back roads with twisties, ridden in Dallas traffic, taken weekend trips and extended trips.  The VFR has taken me on the windy roads in the Smokey Mountains, including the Tail of the Dragon, and over many mountain passes of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado and New Mexico.  I have ridden a few miles in a day up to 650 miles in a day.  I have travel without saddlebags, with saddlebags and even fully loaded for camping.  I have put the bike to the test and I have found myself always smiling.

In Alaska on our way to Valdez
  
New Features for Me

This is the first bike I have owned with traction control and/or a slipper clutch.  I like the both features; however, the first time the traction control engaged was a little surprising and at the same time comforting.  I was glad to feel it work so much quicker than I could react.  The slipper clutch works great and makes downshifting smooth.  The single-side swingarm not only looks sharp it makes changing the tire very convenient.  I love that feature!

Enjoy the view from the Pikes Peak Veterans Memorial outside of Cripple Creek, CO

The seating position is slightly more aggressive than the FJR which took a little getting use to.  I like the lighter weight (589 lbs - wet - although I know that is heavy compared to some bikes) when it comes to backing up or moving around in the garage.  The detachable saddlebags are a great feature requiring just unlock the bag and lift the handle - very convenient.

Very easy to remove saddlebags
Final Impressions

The VFR's handling is solid and breeds confidence in the twisties.  There is plenty of ground clearance for leaning hard.  The levers are adjustable and operate smoothly.  Breaking is the best I have had (6 bikes so far).

I love the bike.  I can not stop smiling when riding (except when a distracted cager makes a bad move).  It is more "sport" than "tourer".  MPG for me has been consistently 39.5 with a mixture of city and hwy. 

If I were to retire and tour for weeks at a time year round I have to admit I would go back with the FJR due to comfort, storage, fuel economy (40mpg vs 44mpg) and sitting position.  But, for now I am loving every mile on the VFR!

Video Review

Video review after 35,000 miles 

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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