Designed By A Rider
Dowco's Fastrax Sport and Adventure Luggage is claimed to work with virtually any sportbike model and includes clear electronics storage areas; hydration pack storage; lockable, waterproof zippers; sewn-in rain hoods; and security cables. The luggage series consists of a tankbag ($120), tailpack ($110) and saddlebags ($170), and is constructed from 1680-denier polyester with nine accent colors available (including pink!). For more information or to find a dealer, visit www.dowcopowersports.com or call (800) 558-7755.
New Hoops
These new VSTAR forged-aluminum wheels from Carrozzeria feature one-piece construction and are claimed to be stronger and 15 to 20 percent lighter than the company's previous offerings. The wheels come complete with bearings, spacers and a cush drive; are DOT, JWL and TUV approved; and are available in black, blue, clear, gold, red and polished finishes. Prices range from $1640 to $1840 per set. For more information, visit www.forged-wheel.com or call (310) 719-2271.
Word Of The Day
These "cryodized" aluminum clutch plates from Barnett have been treated at -300 degrees F, which is claimed to extend clutch-plate life and reduce the chance of breakage and oil contamination. The plates are then hard anodized for added durability. Being aluminum, the cryodized plates are about one-third the weight of steel plates for less rotating mass in the clutch assembly. For more information, visit www.barnett clutches.com or call (805) 642-9435.
What Sign Are You?
The new SR-i500SW alarm from Scorpio includes an impact-resistant, waterproof controller that combines remote and FM paging capabilities. Standard features of the $399 alarm include a half-mile range, a built-in accelerometer, an integrated 120dB siren, a battery backup system and a perimeter sensor. An optional disable/anti-hijack system is also available, and factory-style connector kits are included for easy installation in many models. For more information, visit www.scorpio alarms.com or call (800) 428-0440.
Especially For Special Surfaces
S100's new Special Surfaces Cleaner is designed for streak-free cleaning of plastic surfaces such as helmets, face shields, fairings and windshields, and is safe for polycarbonate and acrylic materials. For more information, visit your local dealer or log on to www.s100.com.
Tank Your Buell
The new Deluxe Tank Bag from Buell Accessories features a rigid body constructed from weather-resistant polyester fabric that maintains its shape whether empty or full. It can expand an additional four inches in height for increased storage capacity and includes a removable MP3 case and two outer side pockets, inner lid pockets and removable internal dividers. Waterproof zippers are used in all closure areas, while the snap-buckle mounting system makes it easy to install or remove the bag. The Deluxe Tank Bag also comes with a rain cover and a shoulder strap for carrying off the bike, and it fits all '03-and-later Buell XB models. Suggested retail is $142.95. Log on to www.buell.com or call (800) 443-2153 for the dealer nearest you.
Murphy Carries One
A must-have for any rider who rides constantly, the Aerostich Tire Repair kit includes five threaded CO2 cartridges, an air chuck, a flex adapter connector, cement and plug/patch installation tools. Unlike many tire-repair kits, the Aerostich kit has plenty of materials for multiple repairs. All these materials are packed up neatly in a zippered pouch that's about the size of your hand and weighs less than a pound. Priced at a very reasonable $32, the Aerostich Tire Repair kit gives you the peace of mind that comes from knowing that if you carry a flat kit with you, you'll never need to use it. For more info, call (800) 222-1994 or log on to www.aerostich.com.
We Don't Even Have A Bike Yet
Two Brothers Racing has already introduced a slip-on exhaust system for the '07 Suzuki GSX-R1000. The new M-2 V.A.L.E. is constructed with thin-wall stainless steel tubing and Teflon-coated magnesium end caps, and is available with polished-aluminum, high-temp carbon-fiber or titanium canister sleeves. Prices start at $394, and more information is available at www.two bros.com or by calling (800) 211-2767.
Armed Guardian
Foil those nasty thieves by arming your Dowco cover with an optional alarm, which the company has added to its line of Guardian Weatherall Plus covers. The cover alarm is powered by a 9-volt battery, attaches to a wheel spoke with a tether cord and emits an ear-piercing 130dB warning to scare off potential thieves or vandals. Sold separately for $19.99, the cover alarm slips into an interior compartment sewn into any size or model of Guardian Weatherall Plus covers. For more information, call (800) 558-7755 or visit www.dowco-inc.com.