(Post was updated from it's original contents, most recently on May 15, 2023)
Summer is here, and so is the hot weather. Sweat can be your best friend or your worst enemy - it keeps your body cool, but it can also be extremely uncomfortable when riding your bike. One of my favorite life tips is to make sure you have the right tools for the job, so it’s important to invest in weather-appropriate motorcycle gear that is made for the heat. Check out my top finds on Amazon for hitting the open road this summer:
Recently, I purchased the ILM Goatskin Leather Motorcycle Gloves from Amazon Canada, and I'm genuinely impressed. The gloves fit perfectly according to the size chart, with no irregularities or loose areas. The goat leather is soft yet protective, offering excellent maneuverability. The gloves seem durable, and have lasted me an entire riding season thus far. They're also quite comfortable, with minimal interior threading and good ventilation, making them perfect for summer rides. The touchscreen functionality is a surprising bonus, and the palm slider and knuckle armor add a reassuring level of protection. The only minor downside is that the touchscreen capability can be a bit finicky, but overall, I wholeheartedly recommend these gloves for their combination of comfort, protection, and value.
Having recently added the Milwaukee Performance Men's Denim Biker Shirt to my summer motorcycle gear, I can confidently vouch for its quality and comfort. Made of durable cotton and reinforced with Kevlar and Aramid Fiber, the shirt offers excellent protection, especially at the shoulders and elbows. Its dual front closure and various pockets, including concealed ones for gun or ammo, add to its practicality.
The shirt runs a bit large, so consider sizing up for a better fit. Despite this, it accommodates thicker torso armor or layered clothing without issue. The shirt's hardware is solid, and the faded denim look is stylish, making it a great addition to my summer and fall wardrobe. The underarm vents keep the shirt cool even in high temperatures, and the option to add a back padding is a nice touch. It’s a heavy shirt, but the comfort isn't compromised, especially when you're moving. A slight downside was a cuff button coming off upon arrival, but it was a minor issue considering the overall quality. This shirt offers a fantastic balance of style, comfort, and safety for riders.
Badass Moto Ultimate Waterproof Motorcycle Cover - $109.86 to $198.40 (Size dependent)
Built tough, the Badass Moto Ultimate Waterproof Motorcycle Cover is a great buy to ensure your ride is protected and stands the test of time. It comes in different sizes to fit all kinds of bikes, from your sporty crotch-rockets to big boy tourers. I do not have a garage and live up north, so this cover has seen heavy rain, wind, you name it, and it has always kept my bike safe and dry. It's a bit on the bulky side though, so not the best for taking on the road. But honestly, for the price, it seems like a no-brainer. I love how durable it is, and it features extras like reflective tape and lock pockets. If you're in the market for a motorcycle cover, this one is worth checking out.
Badass Moto Motorcycle Kickstand Pad - $19.99
This Motorcycle Kickstand Pad by Badass Moto is a lifesaver. It effectively spreads the load of the kickstand over a larger area, preventing costly tip-overs, especially on gravel, hot asphalt and uneven payment. For perspective, I ride an Indian Bobber and it supports the weight perfectly. The size is pretty compact so I can tuck it into my pocket or saddle bag, though it could be considered bulky depending on your gear and accessories. Overall, it is an inexpensive piece of gear that every rider should have on hand.
I recently got my hands on the Cardo Systems Spirit Motorcycle Bluetooth and I have to say, it's a solid entry-level option. It still delivers on performance, especially if you ride in a group or switch between multiple helmets. Sound quality is decent overall, with clear phone calls and minimal wind noise on both ends. While the music audio may lack a bit compared to higher-end models, at its budget price it still sounds good enough for an enjoyable ride.
One thing to note is the abundance of cables that come with the system. It took some effort to hide them all in my helmet, especially with a smaller-sized helmet. However, the advantage of having ample cable length is the flexibility in positioning the control pack wherever you prefer. Battery life has been impressive so far, lasting through many miles of riding without needing a recharge. Overall, I'm quite satisfied with the Cardo Systems Spirit. It offers solid connectivity, seamless pairing with my iPhone, and the ability to enjoy music even at higher speeds.
As the summer riding season sets in, exploring the top motorcycle gear finds on Amazon Canada is a must for riders seeking quality and innovative products. We hope these top finds help you gear up and make the most of your summer adventures on two wheels.
Still searching for the perfect motorbike? No problem! Check out our friends at Revival Powersports, my go-to used motorcycle dealer and finance broker. They'll get you set up with a ride in no time at all.
As always, thanks for reading!
Your friend,
Fred