Motorcycle gear gets touch of science fiction

Getting the charge you need
Powerlet, mentioned above, is also the home of power outlets specifically designed for motorsports. The outlets look like smaller versions of a cigarette or cigar adapter, and Powerlet products are designed to withstand the vibrations and environmental conditions unique to motorcycles.

Powerlet outlets are offered by several European motorcycle companies, including BMW and Triumph, as optional equipment, and a wide variety of DIY kits are available.

My bolt-on Powerlet outlet ($125) was already supplying electricity to a budget Lowrance XOG GPS, but I wanted to be able to charge my cell phone on longer trips.

Digging into the treasure trove of adapter cables and kits on Powerlet’s Web site, I configured a set-up using their Luggage Electrix products that adapts any tank bag, allowing me to charge an iPod, phone, GPS unit and more inside the bag.

That single Powerlet outlet adorning my handlebars was the most useful, affordable addition I made to the bike.

GPS for bikers
The Lowrance GPS served me well, but I was curious to see how Garmin’s deluxe zumo 550 ($850) performed.

I had already experienced the convenience of the 550’s Bluetooth while testing the Dainese D-NECT rig.

The zumo is one of a very few GPS models designed specifically for motorcycle use. That means large, glove-friendly buttons designed for easy left-hand operation of the touchscreen, a military-specification waterproof housing and a build that withstands severe vibration.

The screen is bright enough for outdoor visibility, while I had to cup my hand around the Lowrance’s screen to see it. The included zumo mount, a costly accessory at $85, seemed durable and allowed different mounting positions.

Satellite lock-on typically took just under 20 seconds, one of the fastest I’ve tested, and the included U.S. maps have points of interest included.

If you are planning on keeping the unit charged with a Powerlet outlet, a Powerlet mini-USB cable is the only accessory not included. Otherwise, you can make a connection directly to your bike’s battery with the supplied cables.

Tech apparel
ATGATT, or “All The Gear, All The Time,” is a safety approach to how a rider dresses that is in contrast to the lighter weight wearing of jeans, T-shirt and running shoes.

Dainese The look may shout "science fiction reptile," but Dainese's V Neck Wave jacket ($469), with full armor and heavy mesh, is comfortable, breathable and rugged.

Dainese, an Italian pioneer in protective gear, was the first company to create back and neck protection systems. Their gear is tested and tuned with the help of pilots such as MotoGP superstar Valentino Rossi, and the technology has trickled down to their line of retail products.

The company’s V Neck Wave jacket ($469) looks like the exoskeleton of a human-size bug. An articulated neck support lessens fatigue from the wind, and guards the cervical area of the spine. While most protective jackets stop at elbow and shoulder pads, the V Neck Wave adds forearm, chest and neck-to-tailbone back armor.

The heavy mesh that connects the padding adds seasonal versatility to the setup: Wear the V Neck over a long-sleeved wicking base layer during hot summer months, then add a wind-proof, insulated shell for late or early season riding.

I felt fully protected, confident and unencumbered during testing. For the first time, I wasn't worried about my neck, which I’d injured in an accident earlier this year.

Italians know their bikes and gear. Sidi makes world-class cycling and motorcycle footwear that embodies bold design and innovative materials.

The Vertigo Rain boot ($325) incorporates many of the fit and safety features of the more expensive Corsa and upcoming Vortice models in an all-weather package.

With looks that rival an Aprilia race bike, the Vertigo Rain boots have extensive heel, toe, Achilles tendon, shin and ankle protection. Nearly all the components of boot are easily replaceable with a screwdriver.

As a vegetarian, I'm always on the lookout for effective, man-made materials in my gear — not always an easy task in leather-dominated footwear.

Sidi uses a synthetic called Lorica which is stronger and lighter than leather. An interior membrane kept the boots watertight without suffocating my feet throughout testing.

High-tech shades
Sun glare is a tricky problem to deal with on a motorcycle. Clear shields can be swapped with tinted versions, but taking off a shield is inconvenient. Changing conditions make any product, including sunglasses, only a temporary solution.

Wiley X makes tactical glasses and goggles favored by many military personnel. That includes the company’s Jake glasses ($135) with light-adjusting, shatter-proof polycarbonate lenses, the best riding eye wear I've tried yet.

The fit is secure for most face sizes and the high-density, replaceable foam gaskets seal out dangerous debris. My previous glasses would fog up on chilly mornings, but Wiley's stayed clear because of the cleverly designed ventilation along the top of the foam. Best of all, the light-adjusting lenses change from clear to very dark — no fussing with lens changes.

Now, I must get back to channeling my inner Charley Boorman. Ride safely.

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