NEW IDEAS
Superbike Racing Digital Console
Need more than just the basics provided by your Ducati’s analog gauge cluster? Then ante up for Superbike Racing’s Digital Instrument Console. The backlit liquid-crystal data panel’s three-mode display relays engine rpm, road speed, oil pressure, coolant temperature and battery/ charging voltage, plus lights for ignition, neutral, high beam, low fuel and turnsignals, among other features. Designed to fit the stock head-lamp support and wiring harness on 1994-2002 748/916/996/998s, the carbon-fiber-framed console comes with a one-year warranty and retails for $2695. Superbike Racing, Inc., 1702 Baytree Rd., Valdosta, GA 31602; 229/242-0666; www.superbikeracing.com
Belstaff Discovery
If you’re destined for parts unknown, you’d best be prepared. Though no guarantee against errant drivechains or flat tires, Belstaff’s Discovery will most certainly keep you dry and warm. Available in sizes S-XXXL, the $400 garment boasts a 500-denier Cordura/Hitena shell that wards off moisture and wind, yet breathes. Duratec patches at the elbows and shoulders augment Knox armor, while a removable Thermolite liner and zippered vents provide all-season comfort. Order yours in khaki, silver or gold. Belstaff North America, 12881 Knott St. #235, Garden Grove, CA 92841; 714/901-1167; www.belstaff.com
Baja Designs Case Guards and Skidplate
Are you Basher the Smasher? Baja Designs’ burly aluminum Skidplate ($56) replaces the stocker on Suzuki’s DR-Z400. It even has wings for extra protection up front. Add the Clutch Cover Guard ($38) and Ignition Guard ($25) to make certain the brake pedal and shift lever don’t poke through the brittle magnesium cases. Baja Designs, 185 Bosstick Blvd., San Marcos, CA 92069; 760/560-2252; www.bajadesigns.com
Suzuki Engine Guard Set
Should you prefer to protect your DR-Z400 with cool ’n’ hip carbon-fiber rather than aluminum, opt for the $305 Genuine Suzuki Engine Guard Set. Designed to cover more real estate than the as-delivered parts, all three pieces bolt directly to the stock mounts using standard hardware. American Suzuki Motor Corp., 3251 E. Imperial Hwy., Brea, CA 92622; 714/996-7040; www.suzukicycles.com
Z Technik Accessories
Newest player in the crusade to customize BMW’s popular R1200C cruiser is National Cycle, longtime purveyor of high-quality aftermarket windscreens. Its Z Technik line boasts hard and soft luggage, frame and tool bags, fender tips, gas-tank covers and pouches, chrome halogen lights and, of course, a selection of shields. Prices start at $70. Z Technik also makes products for other BMWs, including the F650, K1200RS, R1100S and R80/100RT. Z Technik, P.O. Box 158, Maywood, IL 60153; 866/983-2465; www.ztechnik.com
Goodridge Build-A-Line Kits
Still fingering mushy rubber brake and clutch lines? Goodridge’s Build-A-Line kits fit most American, European and Japanese streetbikes, eliminating the need for model-specific applications. Easy to install and custom-bike friendly, each $30-90 package comes complete with clearcoated or color-matched stainless-steel braided hose fitted with anodized-aluminum, chrome or stainless-steel hardware. Go ahead, give 'em a squeeze. Goodridge USA, Inc., 20309 Gramercy Pl., Torrance, CA 90501; 800/662-2466; www.goodridge.net
Ogio AR:Series Luggage
On the go with gear? Grab Ogio’s new AR:Series luggage. Brimming with innovative features, the seven-bag lineup comprises three backpacks, two duffels, a smaller hand-held and an enormous 36 × 16 × 16-inch inline-skate-wheeled haul-it-all. Much attention was paid to the needs of motocrossers in particular, hence such niceties as cubbies for goggles and compact-disc players, separate padded helmet and boot storage, even tool-organizer panels. Prices start at $50. Custom logos are available. Ogio International, Inc., 14926 Pony Express Rd., Bluffdale, UT 84065; 800/922-1944; www.ogio.com
CW SPOT LIGHT
FogCity Hyper Optiks
Let’s face it: Side-of-the-road faceshield swaps can be pretty daunting, what with cars and trucks whizzing past mere inches away. Conversely, soldiering on in the face of a blinding sunrise or sunset while wearing a clear visor is equally dodgy. What to do? One option is to install a $30 FogCity Hyper Optiks shield insert, which combines an anti-fog treatment with a light-reactive coating. The “peel-and-stick” optical-grade lens changes from light mint green to dark cobalt blue in less than 4 seconds, and fits most full-face helmets. Now, that’s what we call a new idea! Modern World Ventures, 950 Gilman St. #800, Berkeley, CA 94710; 800/436-4248; www.modernworld.com