NEW IDEAS
ARAI DOUG CHANDLER REPLICA RX7RR3 HELMET
By donning Arai's latest race-replica RX-7RR3, even novice riders can get some of that Doug Chandler racing juju. Sporting graphics like those of the three-time AMA Superbike Champion, the lightweight lid also features a pull-down chin spoiler and faceshield vents. A tool-less shield-changing system and removable, washable interior are standard. The Chandler Replica comes in XS-XXL sizes, and costs $595.
Arai Helmets, P0. Box 9485, Daytona, FL 32120; 904/253-5100
DAINESE T3 LEATHERS
The Armani of motorcycling apparel, Dainese brings the flavor of Italian styling to leathers. Take, for example, its chic T3 suit. With composite armor throughout, the matching two-piece ensemble features an adjustable waist and collar, externally accessible knee cups, hip pads and more. It is available in myriad color combinations and sizes, and carries a suggested retail price of $895.
Motorace, P0. Box 861, Wilbraham, MA 01095; 800/628-4040
HARLEY-DAVIDSON MONOPOLY GAME
Passing "Go" in a round of Monopoly would be much cooler if your playing piece was a motorcycle rather than a yappy little dog, right? Then check out the limited-edition Harley-Davidson 95th Anniversary version. The board has been "Harley-ized," with houses and hotels replaced by garages and dealerships Other tweaks include pewter playing pieces in the shape of an H-D logo, a vintage Harley, etc. Collect your own, for $80.
USAopoly, 565 Westlake St., Encinitas, CA 92024; 760/634-5910
BUSE MEGA TANK BAG
"Storage space" is the catch phrase with the Buse Mega Tank Bag. With magnetic mounting, the cordura Buse comprises three bags that can be used in dividually or zipped together as one. The result is a carry-all with two large main compartments, four smaller pockets and three map holders. Tote handles, shoulder straps for backpack conversion and a rain cover are included. Suggested retail price is $149.
Acerbis, 13200 Gregg St., Poway, CA 92064, 800/659-1440
EUROBIKES BODYWORK
A certain amount of glamour accompanies most things European, particularly custom motorcycles. Enter Eurobikes, importer of fashionable sportbike bodywork from The Continent. Its wares include small parts such as spoilers and undertail enclosures, and more elaborate fare such as the swoopy, 91 6-esque, dual-headlight fairing shown here on a Suzuki GSX-R. Constructed from carbon-fiber and fiberglass, the lightweight, bolt-on parts come pre-drilled and ready to paint. All are available individually or in package form. Price ranges from $64 to $1190.
Eurobikes, 9341 S. Whitt Dr., Manassas, VA 20111; 703/257-9500
FMF FLASHBACK T-SHIRT
With the continuing fashion resurgence of the disco decade comes the appropriately named Flashback T-shirt from FMF. Designed to emulate motocross jerseys of the 1970s, the long-sleeve Tee is fashioned from 100 percent cotton. In fact, it looks suspiciously like the gear worn by former two-time AMA 125cc National MX champ Marty Smith. Very retro, not very pricey: $20, in M-XL sizes.
FMF Racing, 25930 Belle Porte Ave., Harbor City, CA 90710; 310/539-6884
BARUM OFF-ROAD TIRES
Remember Barum tires? If so, you're a certifiable codger-crosser. Last seen on 1970s CZs, the Czech-made knobbies are again available in the USA, thanks to a distribution agreement with Continental. Five different models are offered with knob patterns to suit conditions ranging from sandy/muddy to hard-pack, and in sizes to fit most late model MX bikes, including minis. Prices range from $45 to $75. Tell 'em Jaroslav Falta sent ya'.
Continental General Tire, 41 Strong St., Wallington, NJ 07057; 973/471-8890
MAP ENGINEERING BRAKE KITS
Those dual-purpose riders who spend more time on the road than off probably would agree their bikes would benefit from additional stopping power. MAP Engineering claims the fix is as easy as installing one of its oversized brake rotors. Available for BMW, Honda and Kawasaki on/off-road models, the $450 kits include a 320mm floating rotor, caliper-adapter bracket, Galfer steel braided brake line and pads, plus all necessary hardware for a bolt-on fit.
MAP Engineering, 360 S. Fairview #B, Goleta, CA 93117; 805/964-8502