The holidays are often a time for motorcyclists to take stock of all the motorcycle-related parts, tools, accessories, gear and more that they own – and figure out how others can help add to their collection.
Each year, riders are quizzed by significant others, family and friends about what they’d like under the tree. But what kinds of items do you feel comfortable asking a non-rider to buy you to further your motorcycling addiction? And what percentage of the things you ask for on a holiday wish list are motorcycle-related?
For me, I’m hesitant to ask anyone to buy me parts or riding gear unless I know exactly I want – and have a web link I can add to my list. This year, the only gear I included on my list was new riding boots. I’ve had my current Tourmaster Solution 2.0 boots since 2017 and they’re ready to be retired — though the new Solution 3.0 boots are very hard to find right now in the wide sizes.
Sometimes I’ll put shop supplies on my Christmas list. Since things like oils and aerosols aren’t bike-specific, I feel more comfortable having a non-rider get them for me as a gift. This year, I had Maxima Suspension Clean on the list. It’s something I started using earlier this year when I had to do an unexpected fork rebuild, and I was really impressed by how well it works.
The same goes for tools. I have a terrible Harbor Freight habit that I have no problem inviting others to help feed, though I buy tools from lots of other outlets too. This year, I had a small paint shelter, several air tools, a new air hose and one of those LED lights you wear on your head on my list.
So, what motorcycle-related gifts did Santa bring you this year? Send you responses – with a photo or two – and I’ll post them in a future story.