Cycra Probend Handguards

Got my Cycra Probend Handguards in today. They retail for $109 but I found these on an auction site for $79. These were recommended by a friend who races Enduros.

This is a simple setup. I got the bar clamp mounts. They also offer triple clamp mounts and U-clamp handlebar mounts.

The install was straightforward. That's a good thing since the instructions are pretty basic (no pics, etc). Since these are "universal" handguards be prepared to put a little muscle into getting them lined up correctly. I had to push on/bend the aluminum bar some during installation. Every part seems to be top quality, which you would expect for the price. "Buy the best and only cry once" - we'll see.

I'm happy with the initial quality. I will have an update after they are banged up a bit.

Product Website

Joe Rocket Alter Ego 2.0 Jacket

Price $233

I am very happy with this jacket. It is as advertised. There are a couple of things that could be improved though. First, the liner is primitive. It is 100% PVC and has no insulation. Once you put it on you will get steamy. The upside is that it is 100% waterproof. I use the quilted, waterproof liner from my Olympia Motorsports jacket with the Alter Ego jacket and it is a great combination for cold or wet weather. If the Alter Ego came with a liner like this it would be faultless except for...

After the outer solid panels are removed (along with the main zipper) the zipper on the mesh jacket will unzip itself at speeds above 40 MPH. I'm not sure why there is no snap closure or even velcro to keep the zipper from being pulled down from the wind on the front of the jacket. I am going to sew a velcro closure at the top to prevent this. It;s very aggravating and will unzip in less than a minute at highway speeds.

The lower arms and complete torso and back are removable to make this an almost completely mesh jacket. The only solid material left is from the elbow to the shoulder. It is really nice. Tons of airflow and the armor is still there. I'm not sure there is a better jacket for hot weather.

There are two "slash" vents on the front of the shoulders that can let some air in for those transition times when you aren't ready to remove the panels but it's not really cold anymore. Very nice feature.

With the panels on it is good into the mid/low 70's. With the jacket and a "real" insulated liner mid/high 60's are no problem. These estimates are sunny day, at speed, with little or no fairing protection. Adjust as necessary.

I have looked at the Rev'it Cayenne jacket ($499) and to me the only significant difference is the liner issue. I hope Joe Rocket steps up and includes a waterproof and insulated liner in the future. It would be worth a few extra bucks.

Held Steve Gloves

Price $149.00

I never thought I would spend so much on a pair of gloves. But these are supposed to be great. I opted for the Dark Steve (all black and $10 extra). The regular Steve has a tan palm. The Held website notes that the Dark Steve is only available in the US.

The construction is top quality as you would expect and demand for the price. They look and feel like they are meant to last a long time.

These can be ordered directly from Held and the customer service was excellent. The gentleman I spoke with actually had a conversation with me about the gloves. It was obvious the he cared very much. He answered all of my questions regarding sizing, cleaning, and leather care. Make sure you listen to them and get the right size. I would highly recommend ordering directly from them rather than an online store.

It will take some time to break in and find out how good these gloves are, but I hoping the adage "buy the best and only cry once" holds true.

See the link below for specifics on this glove:
Held USA Website - Steve Gloves

Athletic Works Compression Shirt and Shorts

These are available at Wal-Mart.

Price: $9.88 each

Opinion: Recommend, but UnderArmor could be better quality (and more expensive). Definitely get something similar if you don't have this already.

Compression underwear is great for a few reasons. It can be washed at night and will be dry in the morning. It keeps moisture of of your skin, and keeps you from getting chafed.

No Toil Foam Filter Oil and Cleaner

Price: $16 (Oil, Cleaner, Sealing grease)

Opinion: Not worth the trouble for me.




I bought this for my Uni Filter on the XR650. I used it twice before deciding that it was not worth the trouble. On multiple day trips you need to carry the special cleaner and oil with you. The oil can only be removed with the special cleaner.

I need to be flexible when out in the wild. I would rather use readily available chemicals. If you only clean your filter at home this may work for you.

PJ1 Blue Label Chain Lube

We don't lube our chains every 200 miles, but when we do this is the stuff we prefer. It doesn't drip all over. It also comes in a small can that is good for touring.

I don't have any hard data that this is the best chain lube, but I think it is as good as any other and definitely better than not using any.

Price: About $10

Travelon Compression Bags

Compression bags allow you to vacuum pack your clothes. Packing my topcase is a breeze now and the gear I put in my tailbag for longer trips is now waterproof.

Price :$9 (One large and one medium bag)



Opinion: This is a no-brainer. Get these! Not only do they make your packing easier, but they are waterproof. I love them.

I bought mine here.

Get a few since you have to pay shipping anyway. You will be glad you did.