Tag Archives: Motorcycle Accessories

New Gear: SW-Motech Motorcycle Crash Bars for Kawasaki KLR650

SW-Motech Kawasaki KLR650 Motorcycle Crash Bars

SW-Motech’s Motorcycle Crash Bars for the 2022-23 Kawasaki KLR650 provides extra protection for the tank, fairing, and other components.

Related: 2022 Kawasaki KLR650 Adventure | Road Test Review

The crash bar is made of steel pipe with a 27mm diameter and has a weather- and corrosion-resistant black powdercoating. Designed specifically for the KLR650, it fits seamlessly with the lines of the bike and doesn’t restrict cornering clearance.

The bars come with model-specific mounting systems and screw onto factory mounting points on the frame.

See Rider’s Parts & Accessories reviews here.

SW-Motech Kawasaki KLR650 Motorcycle Crash Bars

Two motorcycle crash bars, instructions, and mounting hardware are included, and the set is available for $280.

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Wunderlich Side Wind Deflectors for BMW GS | Gear Review

Wunderlich Wind Side Deflectors for BMW GS
Wunderlich Side Wind Deflectors fit 2017-18 R 1200 GS and 2019-23 R 1250 GS models (but not GS Adventure models) and are available in clear or tinted (shown).

After more than 17 years of riding successive generations of BMW RTs, I recently switched to riding a 2020 R 1250 GS. Even though my new-to-me GS is equipped with an oversized Puig Touring windshield, the amount of turbulence and wind noise at speed is significantly higher than it was on my former RTs. My last was a 2015 R 1200 RT equipped with the superb Werks Quiet Ride windshield, which enveloped the rider in a still pocket of calm air regardless of how fast the bike was moving. In fact, I’ve hosted several conference calls for work while traveling down the highway at extra-legal speeds, and nobody even knew I was in motion.

Related: 2021 BMW R 1250 GS | Road Test Review

Wunderlich Wind Side Deflectors for BMW GS
Wunderlich Side Wind Deflectors installed on my new-to-me 2020 BMW R 1250 GS.

In fairness, I never expected this level of protection from the GS, which is designed for adventure touring, not sport-touring like the RT. But for long highway trips and especially on cold days, I wanted more wind protection than what the stock bike offers. The hunt for solutions led me to Wunderlich Side Wind Deflectors, which fit 2017-18 R 1200 GS and 2019-23 R 1250 GS models, but not GS Adventure models.

Wunderlich Wind Side Deflectors for BMW GS

Wunderlich’s deflectors are made of scratchproof, shatterproof 5mm acrylic plastic, and they’re available in clear or the dark tinted finish shown here. The kit includes two deflectors, a one-page installation sheet, and mounting hardware. Two brackets per side provide anchor points for the winglets, secured in place with standard M5 T25 Torx hardware running through a series of stabilizing collars and sleeves. There’s a bit of play for adjustability and fine tuning, if necessary.

Wunderlich Wind Side Deflectors for BMW GS
Wunderlich Side Wind Deflectors are larger than the ones that come as standard on BMW GS Adventure models.

As expected, it’s easiest if you install everything loosely at first, and then tighten down only once final adjustment is completed. Final installation as shown took less than an hour, working methodically. The Wunderlich winglets themselves, each measuring roughly 13 x 4.25 inches at the edges, are quite a bit larger than the stock deflectors on GS Adventure models, which measure roughly 10.5 x 3.5 inches.

Out on the road, the Wunderlich Side Wind Deflectors had a significant impact on the level of wind blast, overall turbulence, and noise experienced at highway speeds. The stock GS has moderate protection for the rider’s torso, but heavy airflow to the rider’s arms. I found that adjusting the windshield to a forward position (nearly vertical) in conjunction with the installed winglets notably diverted air around both my torso and my arms. This provided significant relief on long days gobbling up miles on the slab, which can get tiresome if the rider is being blown all over the place. For hot weather rides or if otherwise desired, the winglets can be quickly removed via 3x M5 T25 Torx bolts per side, allowing for maximum airflow.

Wunderlich Wind Side Deflectors for BMW GS

Overall, the Wunderlich winglets are a worthy addition for BMW GS riders who partake in long trips at sustained high speeds, cold weather journeys, or otherwise desire a more composed operating environment. They’re priced at $289.95. (They’re also available for 2015-19 BMW S 1000 XR models for $271.95.) – Moshe K. Levy

For more information: See your dealer or visit WunderlichAmerica.com

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New Gear: PowerDeck Motorcycle Loading System from Aumsville

PowerDeck AmeriDeck motorcycle loading system

Capable of hauling motorcycles, ATVs, snowmobiles, and other vehicles, the PowerDeck motorcycle loading system from Aumsville Equipment Sales pairs with the AmeriDeck lift system to lift machines from the ground to the bed of a truck with the push of a button.

See all of Rider‘s Parts & Accessories Reviews here.

The PowerDeck comes in two versions: long bed (96 inches long) or short bed (78 inches long).

When in the pickup, the deck sits just above the pickup wheel wells, keeping the center of gravity low and providing storage under the deck.

PowerDeck AmeriDeck motorcycle loading system

The PowerDeck can also be used for material transport and other types of hauling. It features 2,500 lb of loading and dump capacity, a 45-degree rear approach angle, up to a 55-degree dump angle, easy-access tie-down points, and structural steel construction. The AmeriDeck and PowerDeck systems fit a wide variety of trucks.

PowerDeck AmeriDeck motorcycle loading system

Visit the Aumsville Equipment Sales website for a quote. 

The post New Gear: PowerDeck Motorcycle Loading System from Aumsville first appeared on Rider Magazine.
Source: RiderMagazine.com

New Gear: MotoBikeJack Motorcycle Jack

MotoBikeJack motorcycle jack

Ever drop a heavy bike? Picking it back up can be a real pain. And if you’re by yourself and on a soft or uneven surface, it’s even worse. That’s where the MotoBikeJack motorcycle jack comes in.

See all of Rider‘s Parts & Accessories reviews here.

Made of powdercoated American steel, the MotoBikeJack weighs less than 8 lb and breaks down into four pieces so it can be stowed in a 15×5-inch bag. Three shafts fit into the base, and the top shaft has a ratchet with a webbed strap and hook.

The 3,300-lb rated jack can be used to safely and securely lift a 1,000-lb motorcycle from prone to upright in just five minutes.

MotoBikeJack motorcycle jack

The MotoBikeJack retails for $216, plus shipping and handling. For more information, visit the MotoBikeJack website

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New Gear: Baxley SBX09 Fold Up Motorcycle Trailer

Baxley SBX09 Fold Up Single Bike Motorcycle Trailer

The Baxley Trailer Company SBX09 Fold Up Single Bike motorcycle trailer is easy to load and smooth to pull.

See all of Rider‘s Parts & Accessories reviews here.

The SBX09 features sturdy steel construction and a durable black crinkle finish. The trailer comes with chrome wheels, an adjustable height coupler, a full diamond plate floorboard, and stone guard.

The winch tilts and levels the trailer for easy loading – even with heavy motorcycles. The LA Chock keeps the motorcycle upright, so the rider only needs to strap down the rear of the motorcycle to secure it.

Baxley SBX09 Fold Up Single Bike Motorcycle Trailer

Baxley’s patented suspension system operates as an independent suspension on each wheel and provides a very smooth ride with excellent tracking characteristics.

The trailer is available for $5,400 and ships fully assembled and ready for use. For more information, visit the Baxley Trailer Company website.

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New Gear: East Coast Koverz Standard Smart Commuter Kover

East Coast Koverz Standard Smart Commuter Kover motorcycle cover

The Standard Smart Commuter Kover by East Coast Koverz will keep your motorcycle protected from the elements no matter where you park it.

See all of Rider‘s Parts & Accessories reviews here.

The Standard Smart Commuter Kover is made of oxford nylon and comes with an attached backpack for quick and easy storage. The toggle lock-and-cord system around the bottom of the cover ensures that it remains securely in place and is easy to remove when you’re ready to hit the road.

The cover is available in Black, Electric Blue, Red, Gray, Khaki, and Purple for $189.99, with an optional license plate window for an additional $25.

Find the Standard Smart Commuter Kover at the East Coast Koverz website.

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Winter Motorcycle Riding: Finding Big Warmth on a Small Bike

If you refuse to be deterred by the weather when it comes to winter motorcycle riding (but are perhaps stymied by the tech – or lack thereof – on your small bike), check out this Exhaust Note feature from “Moto Mouth” Moshe K. Levy that originally appeared in Rider‘s February issue.


Winter Motorcycle Riding Honda Trail 125
Winter doesn’t stop the author from getting out on his 2021 Honda Trail 125.

Sales of small motorcycles have been booming in the U.S. Their low prices, excellent fuel economy, playful aesthetics, and sheer riding pleasure make minibikes irresistible. My 2021 Honda Trail 125 is so addictive that I find myself hopping aboard its spartan solo saddle not just for local chores but for longer weekend trips as well.

Related: 2021 Honda Trail 125 ABS | First Ride Review

However, all that fun eventually collides against the limitations Mother Nature imposes on those of us who suffer cold winters. Normally, on my big bikes, I just plug in my 12-volt electric jacket liner and gloves and keep on going. But on small bikes like the Trail, there simply isn’t enough electrical capacity to run a full suite of heated gear.

Since parking the bike for the season is never a serious consideration for me, I developed a solution that is relatively low cost, readily available, functionally effective, and applicable for virtually any motorcycle with a marginal electrical output.

First, you need some battery-powered heated gear, which is abundant in today’s marketplace. I’ve had excellent luck with Warm & Safe’s Long Sleeve Heat Layer Shirt, which is powered by a 7.4V, 7.8Ah lithium-ion battery. For gloves, I like Klim’s battery-powered Hardanger HTDs, which operate on 7.4V, 2Ah lithium-polymer batteries. Both products feature multiple heat levels that allow the rider to adjust temperature as necessary, and they have held up well over multiple seasons of abuse.

See all of Rider’s new and reviewed gear here.

Indeed, heated gear is the only thing permitting your faithful, winter-hating Mediterranean columnist to survive arctic riding – at least until the batteries deplete! And therein lies the rub: To stay out all day in the cold, we need continuous power. Here’s how to get it.

First, we need spare batteries for all the heated gear we use. Manufacturers generally offer spares, as does Amazon. Always try to get at least as high an Ah (amp-hour) rating as the original battery – preferably higher. The higher the Ah rating, all else equal, the more run time you will get.

Next, we need to keep these spares continuously charging so they can be swapped in when the original batteries run down. We can accomplish this with a basic square-wave DC-AC inverter and a wiring harness to connect the inverter to the bike’s battery.

My typical setup inside my Trail’s top box is shown in the photo below:

Winter Motorcycle Riding

1. Sinloon waterproof cigarette lighter harness, available on Amazon for $9.99, which connects directly to the motorcycle’s battery

2. BMK 200W square-wave DC-AC inverter, available on Amazon for $25.99, which plugs into the Sinloon harness and converts the 12V DC from the bike’s battery to 120V AC

3. AC-DC battery chargers, included with the heated gear and plugged directly into the inverter, which convert the 120V AC output back to 8.4V DC to charge the spares

4. Spare lithium-ion battery for my W&S Heat Layer Shirt

5. Spare lithium-polymer batteries used in my Klim heated gloves

Both the harness and inverter are generic, and it really doesn’t matter which brands you use. (Some riders might already have the wiring harness in place, e.g., for a Battery Tender.)

Everything is secured in my Trail’s top case so things don’t shake around too much. All I need to do is flip the inverter to “on” to continuously charge the spare batteries while riding. Yes, it’s inefficient to convert power from the bike’s 12V DC to 120V AC and then back to heated gear’s 8.4V DC charging voltage, but this setup gets the job done with common, inexpensive components and requires no fancy wiring. 

Total draw on this setup is only about 32 watts, including inverter losses. That’s only about one-third of the draw of my 12V DC Warm & Safe jacket liner, so minibikes and even many older bikes with limited electrical capacity should be able to handle this load with ease. Mission accomplished!

Depending on the ambient temperatures and settings of the heated gear, I typically pull over every one to four hours to swap the dead batteries for freshly charged ones, allowing me to stay out all day in the cold – long after most other riders have parked for the season. For a true addict, there is no other choice!

To see a video about this setup, check out the Moto Mouth Moshe YouTube channel.

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New Gear: National Cycle RainZip Rain Repellent

National Cycle RainZip rain repellent

To keep your view clear in rainy weather, National Cycle developed RainZip, a specially formulated rain repellent treatment for National Cycle’s Quantum hardcoated polycarbonate windshields and other polycarbonate windshields and helmet faceshields.

See all of Rider’s Parts & Accessories Reviews here

When rain accumulates in your line of sight, RainZip makes it bead up quickly and blow away, even at speeds as slow as 35 mph.

RainZip comes in a 3-ounce container, enough for two large windshield applications, each lasting three to four months. It also comes with special application cloths. MSRP is $30.95.

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New Gear: Denali Electronics Accessories for Triumph Tiger Sport 660

Denali Electronics Triumph Tiger Sport 660 rear light kit

Denali Electronics has all the tech you need or want for your Triumph Tiger Sport 660.

Related: 2022 Triumph Tiger Sport 660 | Video Review

Denali Electronics’ new line features 12 products specifically designed for the middleweight sport-tourer, many of which allow riders to add additional Denali products to their bike.

The light and horn mounts allow driving lights and a horn to be fitted in the optimal positions on your Triumph. The Plug & Play rear light kit (pictured at the top of this article) comes with turnsignal pods, a plug-n-play rear turnsignal, and a brake light wiring adapter to add visibility to the rear of the bike.

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National Cycle Extreme Adventure Gear | Gear Review

National-Cycle-Extreme-Adventure-Gear-XAG 2022 Honda CB500X
2022 Honda CB500X decked out in National Cycle Extreme Adventure Gear

Adventure bike owners love to add “farkles” from companies such as National Cycle to their bikes. A farkle, as many of you know, is an accessory, often a fancy one, that a motorcycle owner is likely to brag about. Some say the word is a mashup of “function” and “sparkle,” but we’ve also heard it’s an acronym for Fancy Accessory, Really Kool, Likely Expensive. (When I Googled “farkle,” the top result was from Dictionary.com: a combination of fart and chuckle, an involuntary fart caused by laughter. Gotta love the internet.)

Best known for its windscreens and windshields, National Cycle also makes accessories for select motorcycle models. As part of its Extreme Adventure Gear (XAG) line, it makes accessories for the ADV-styled Honda CB500X, and we installed some XAG accessories on our 2022 test bike.

Related: 2019 Honda CB500X | First Ride Review

One of the most popular upgrades for adventure bikes is supplemental protection against rocks, road debris, and tip-overs. We started off with National Cycle’s XAG Polycarbonate Headlight Guard (P/N N5400, $84.95), which is made of tough 3.0mm polycarbonate reinforced with the company’s proprietary Quantum hardcoat – said to provide 10 times the strength and 30 times the scratch resistance as acrylic, a claim National Cycle backs up with a three-year warranty against breakage.

National Cycle Extreme Adventure Gear XAG Polycarbonate Headlight Guard 2022 Honda CB500X
National Cycle XAG Polycarbonate Headlight Guard

The guard is thermoformed for an exact fit over the 2019-2022 CB500X headlight, and its crystal-clear optics do not distort or reduce illumination. Installation is simple: Just clean the headlight, remove the adhesive backing on the marine-grade Velcro tabs, and press the guard onto the headlight lens.

Next, to add crash protection as well as a place to mount auxiliary lighting, we installed the XAG Adventure Side Guards (P/N P4200, $429.95), which are also available for the Yamaha Ténéré 700. Made of black powdercoated steel, they complement the CB500X’s styling, especially the Pearl Organic Green/Black color scheme on our 2022 model. The guards are also treated inside and out with an electrophoretic coating to eliminate rust and corrosion.

National-Cycle-Extreme-Adventure-Gear-XAG-Adventure-Side-Guards 2022 Honda CB500X
National Cycle XAG Adventure Side Guards

The installation instructions provide a list of basic tools needed as well as a QR code that links to a helpful video. Installation is straightforward and took about 30 minutes, with the only challenge being a little extra effort needed to line the guards up with the engine mount holes.

The left and right guards attach to the engine in two places, and they bolt together in the middle just below the headlight. Once installed, they provide solid, sturdy protection. A flat metal tab with an open bolt hole that’s welded to the lower part of each guard provides a good attachment point for auxiliary lights.

As Reg Kittrelle says in his Triumph Tiger 900 GT Low review in the upcoming February issue, an ADV is a “motorcycle that can comfortably take me to distant places carrying lots of stuff.” The Honda CB500X is comfortable, but in stock form, it doesn’t provide many options for carrying gear, so we installed the XAG Luggage Rack (P/N P9304, $184.95). Like the side guards, the luggage rack is made of black powdercoated steel.

National Cycle Extreme Adventure Gear XAG Luggage Rack 2022 Honda CB500X
National Cycle XAG Luggage Rack

Also like the guards, installation of the rack requires only basic hand tools, takes about 30 minutes, and is clearly demonstrated in the instructions and video. On a stock CB500X, installation requires removal/reinstallation of the passenger grab handles since the mounting brackets share the same bolt holes. On our test bike, the grab handles had already been removed when Honda’s accessory saddlebag mounts were installed. And be advised: National Cycle’s luggage rack is not compatible with Honda’s accessory saddlebags.

The rack is a solid, stylish, practical add-on. It measures 8.625 inches front to back and has a tapered width that narrows from 6.75 inches at the front to 5 inches at the rear. The rack’s slotted surface and two holes on either side provide anchor points for straps or bungee cords. It sits a bit higher than the passenger portion of the seat, but together they provide a platform up to 23 inches in length for carrying a drybag, duffel, or tailbag.

Related: Motorcycle Camping on a Honda CB500X and Husqvarna Norden 901

Although we didn’t request one for our test bike, National Cycle also makes the XAG Lowering Kit and Kickstand (P/N P4900, $119.95) for the CB500X. It includes a shorter sidestand and two aluminum suspension link arms that lower the seat height by about 1.5 inches (from 32.8 to 31.3 inches). Only basic tools are required, installation takes 30-45 minutes, and you’ll need a wheel chock and a hydraulic jack or lift. As with the other accessories, in addition to the step-by-step instructions with photos, there’s a helpful video.

National-Cycle-Extreme-Adventure-Gear-XAG-Lowering-Kit-and-Kickstand 2022 Honda CB500X
National Cycle XAG Lowering Kit and Kickstand

We put as many miles as possible on our test bikes, so we’re always interested in accessories that improve comfort. We’ve tested National Cycle’s VStream windscreens on many different motorcycles over the years, and we’ve consistently been impressed with their ability to improve wind protection while also reducing turbulence and buffeting. With their patented “V” shape, VStream windscreens are made of 3.0mm Quantum-hardcoated polycarbonate – the same durable material used for the headlight guard (and with the same warranty against breakage).

The VStream windscreen comes in three sizes for the CB500X, as seen below.

National-Cycle-Extreme-Adventure-Gear-XAG-Vstream-Windscreen 2022 Honda CB500X

The Low windscreen is 16.75 inches tall, just slightly taller than stock, and it’s available in dark or light tint for $121.95. We opted for the Mid windscreen ($133.95), which is 19.25 inches tall (more than 2.5 inches taller than stock), much wider than stock near the top, and available only in light tint. The Tall windscreen ($139.95) is 21.75 inches tall (more than 5 inches taller than stock), even wider near the top, and available only in clear.

National Cycle Extreme Adventure Gear XAG Vstream Windscreen mid 2022 Honda CB500X
National Cycle VStream Windscreen Mid size

Compared to stock, the Mid-size VStream pushes air higher up and around the rider. Airflow hits at helmet height, but there’s no buffeting. There’s also excellent visibility over the top of the windscreen, providing an unobstructed view of the road ahead.  

Unlike most farkles, National Cycle’s XAG accessories are practical and reasonably priced. If you’ve got a Honda CB500X, check ’em out by clicking on the linked product names above.

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