NEW IDEAS
Gale Speed Wheels
New from Japan, approved to meet strict JPL safety standards in that country and TUV in Germany, Gale Speed wheels are manufactured using an advanced forging process, wherein the density and strength of the aluminum are greatly enhanced over traditional castings. Choose from the standard five-spoke Type-C ($874-$1098) or lightweight 10-spoke Type-R ($935-$1209), both available for late-model sportbikes.
Tucker Rocky Distributing, Inc., 4900 Allianr Gateway Fwy., Ft. Worth, TX 76177; 800/283-8787; www.power sportrider.com
Shoei Multitec and RJ Platinum-R helmets
Think Shoei saves its latest, greatest technology for top-ofthe-line roadracing and motocross helmets? Think again. Wind-tunnel-developed flip-up-style Multitec ($483; XXS-XXL sizes) and open-face RJ Platinum-R ($233; XS-XXL sizes) feature proprietary Advanced Integrated Matrix shell construction, dual-density expanded polysty rene liners, three-dimensionally sewn center pads and eye glasses-compatible five-layer cheek pads. Both are backed by a five-year warranty.
Shoei Safety Helmet Corp., 3002 Dow Ave. #128, Tustin, CA 92780; 714/730-0941; www.shoei-helmets.com
Diamond Power sports Flame Sliders
Flame Sliders not only protect latemodel Japanese sportbikes from tip-over damage, they double as running lights or turnsignals. Available in amber, green, red, blue or white, the patented, UV-protected polycarbonate design is ringed with durable inset LED bulbs. Installation may require modifications to fairings on some models. Per-pair pricing starts at $139.
Diamond Powersports, 5150 N.W. 109 Ave. #4, Sunrise, FL 33351; 800/466-8606; www.diamondpowersports.com
Aluminator
Aluminator is a mild surface-etching acid solution that removes brake dust, dirt, grime, oxidation and watermarks from unprotected aluminum without buffing or polishing. Simply spray on and hose off. A 32-ounce bottle retails for $4.95.
Orison Marketing, P0. Box 5198, Abilene, TX 79608; 325/692-1135; www.orisonmarketing.com
Cycra Racing Moto Stand
Done riding? Don't lean your dirtbike against a wall in the garage; put it on a Moto Stand. A wide, flat, injection-molded rubber top mat is secured with recessed pop rivets and sits on sturdy composite legs. A central drain hole eases oil changes, and a lower parts tray holds tools. Choose from six colors, each retailing for $60. Add $30 for a locking wheel set.
Cycra Racing, 171 O'Neill Dr., Hebron, OH 43025; 740/929-0188; www.cycra.com
Powerlet Heated Jacket Liner
It's never too cold to ride as long as you have a Powerlet Heated Jacket Liner. The fully sleeved, lycra-expansion-paneled design ($199) is wired throughout the front back, arms and fleece-lined neck to keep you toasty in otherwise unbearable conditions. Available in XS-XXL sizes, the liners are compatible with other makers' heated gloves and pants. Controllers sold separately.
Powerlet, 5520 Chicago Rd~, Warren, MI 48092; 877/752-7835; www.powerlet.net
Cycle Protect Liberator
Worried about your bike getting stolen? Rest easy, the GPSand cellular-based Liberator ($595) is compatible with any make or model motorcycle and installs in 15 minutes without cutting into the stock wiring loom. Alerts of changes in your motorcycle's latitude and longitude are sent via text message to your mobile phone and e-mail address. One-year contract required.
Cycle Protect, P0. Box 231137, Centreville, VA 20120; 703/222-3313; www.cycleprotect.com
Oakley Transitions Lenses
If you've worn Oakley sunglasses, you're familiar with the excellent visual clarity provided by the High Definition Optics. Now, thanks to a partnership with Transitions Optical, add the ability to compensate for changing light conditions. Previously only offered in prescription form, Transitions lenses begin to darken the moment they are exposed to ultraviolet light. As soon as the UV rays are no longer present, the lenses begin to fade back to a light tint. We were impressed by how quickly and smoothly the VR5O lenses (Black Persimmon Iridium is also available) reacted to abrupt changes in light. Only noontime, stare-atthe-sun conditions left us wanting additional tinting. Transitions lenses are currently available in six frame styles-Bottlecap, Crosshair, Half Jacket, Monster Dog, Racing Jacket and Whisker. Prices range from $170 to $220.
Oakley, One Icon, Foothill Ranch, CA 92610; 949/951-0991; www.oakley.com