2011 Cruiser Motorcycle Holiday Gift Guide

Monday, December 05, 2011
Bell 500 RSD Grand National LE Helmet
Bell 500 RSD Grand National LE Helmet
Cruiser riders take pride in the modifications and painstaking detail put into their rides, so it should come as no surprise that motorcycle gear selection in this category can be challenging. Motorcycle USA is here to help, suggesting some of the best cruiser gear from the past year in our 2011 Cruiser Motorcycle Holiday Gift Guide.
 
Bell Custom 500 RSD Grand National LE Helmet
Sometimes a retro lid is just the ticket needed to complement a custom bike. The Bell Custom 500 RSD Grand National LE Helmet pays homage to the original 1954 500 series designed by Roy Richter. Its custom fiberglass shell includes graphics and chrome work by Roland Sands Design, and the inside features a quilted liner to give it that extra historic feel. The open-face design also has integrated snaps for aftermarket shields and visors, and the padded chin strap uses a standard D-ring closure. At only $139.95, it’s a bargain for a limited edition replica helmet.
 
Vega XTS Naked Leather Helmet
Vega XTS Naked Leather Helmet

MSRP: $139.95
 
Vega XTS Naked Leather Helmet
Those looking for a lid with a half shell design should take a peek at Vega’s XTS Naked Leather Helmet. Featuring aggressive cutaway styling and super absorbent interior fabric to keep you dry, the lid meets or exceeds DOT standard. In addition to being equipped with a ‘wick-dri’ fabric, the interior also includes a plush lining for added comfort. Available in solid black or orange/black, it comes in sizes X-small to 2X.
 
MSRP: $59.99 - $72.99

Oakley Ducati Wind Jacket Sunglasses   
Oakley Ducati Wind Jacket Sunglasses
Oakley Ducati Wind Jacket Sunglasses
Protecting your eyes is paramount when riding, especially since many cruiser riders rock half-shell helmets. I’ve been protecting mine with a pair of Oakley Ducati Wind Jacket sunglasses this past riding season and have loved their versatility. The lenses swap out from clear to tinted in about a minute thanks to Oakley’s Switchlock system and they come with a removable rubber guard that seals up against a rider’s eyes and keeps air out. The lenses have great clarity and a neutral tint allows colors to be seen as they are. The strap to cinch the glasses onto your head came is another handy trait. On my trip to the Bikes, Blues & BBQ rally this year, I broke the visor off my full-face helmet but my Oakley Ducati Wind Jackets helped keep things running smooth. Read more details in the Oakley Ducati Wind Jacket Sunglass Review. - Bryan Harley

MSRP: $250 available at N3L Optics 

MotoCentric Cruiser Slanted Saddlebags
MotoCentric Cruiser Slanted Saddlebags
MotoCentric Cruiser Slanted Saddlebags
Featuring a lifetime warranty and industry leading technology, the MotoCentric Cruiser Slanted Saddlebags offer an efficient storage solution for longer trips. Made of 1680 Maxtura water resistant material, the bags have removable rubberized mounting pads to prevent scratching. Each bag includes an internal organizer as well as convenient outside pockets for easy access. Rain covers are included, and heat shields on the bottom prevent exhaust burns. The design also features Duraflex buckles for more strength. Bags can be removed individually from the mounting system by zipper, and reflective piping on the outside helps increase visibility at night.
 
MSRP: $129.99
 
Bobster Cruiser Goggles
Bobster Cruiser Goggles
Bobster Cruiser Goggles
Not every helmet is built with a face shield or visor. One remedy for this is the Bobster Cruiser Goggles, which offer a sealed fit to protect your eyes. Open cell foam makes them comfortable while ventilation slits on the side of the frame in addition to anti-fog lenses help prevent fogging. The frame is RX ready and each lens features 100% UVA and UVB protection in your choice of four different colors. The goggle strap is adjustable and the entire design is backed with a limited lifetime warranty against manufacturing defects.
 
MSRP: $13.95
 
Accutronix Diamond Forward Controls   
Accutronix Diamond Series Forward Controls
Accutronix Diamond Forward Controls
The cruiser crowd loves to customize their rides and the quality of Accutronix controls sets riders apart. On our recent 2011 Honda Fury Project Bike, we installed a set of Accutronix Diamond “Night Series” Forward Controls and the new controls look real classy on our bar hopper. These beauties are CNC-machined from 6061 T-6 aluminum and look industrial-strength. The Accutronix Diamond Forward Controls come with everything you’ll need for a straight-forward install, including foot, shift and brake pegs, swivel joints, shift rods, brake rods and instructions. They mate to the existing stock master cylinder and its pivot points have sealed bearings which make action at the lever smooth and gear engagement solid. Made in the good ol’ USA, Accutronix controls can dress up any custom motorcycle. - Bryan Harley

MSRP: $942.95 - $957.95

Icon Brawnson Textile Jacket  
Icon Brawnson Sidewinder Jacket
Icon Brawnson Sidewinder Jacket
I prefer jackets that bring a little attitude to the table. The Icon Brawnson Sidewinder Jacket does just that. Made of durable textile, the Brawnson Sidewinder Jacket is ready for whatever the road throws your way with removable field armor in the elbows, shoulders, and dual-density foam back pad. The vest liner is removable and insulated against the wind. Zippered cooling vents means it’s light enough to wear on hot days yet thick enough to sport on cold days too, thanks to its padded liner and a collar which zips up high. The textile of the Brawnson Sidewinder is woven tight, giving it resiliency to both wind and rain. Sponsor badges from K&N, Barnett, Wiseco and Champion means you’ll blend right in at the local dirt track. - Bryan Harley

MSRP $230

Tour Master Nomad Boots
Tour Master Nomad Boots
Tour Master Nomad Boots
Made of durable, water-resistant leather, the Tour Master Nomad Boots are ideal for those wanting comfort in addition to a sturdy design. An oil-resistant anti-slip rubber sole helps you keep upright while a reinforced toe box offers improved shifting. The boot features easy entrance, and snaps are hidden behind satin chrome buckles for quick operation. There’s also a real-pull tab on the back for better leverage while putting the boot on, and the interior is lined with a soft, plush material. This is a great ‘no-frills’ boot that will go the distance.
 
MSRP: $119.99
 
River Road Rambler Leather Vest 
River Road Rambler Leather Vest
River Road Rambler Leather Vest
One of the most decorated pieces in a cruiser enthusiast’s closet is his or her vest. Often decorated with patches from rallies attended over the years, it is a closely-guarded item with hardcore bikers. With this in mind the folks at River Road crafted its Rambler Leather Vest using high quality imported leather. Keeping the design simple and clean, the vest features a four-snap front closure along with two exterior zippered pockets. The inside is fully lined for comfort, and the vest comes with a two-year manufacturer’s warranty.
 
MSRP: $139.95 
  
Need more ideas? Check out more cruiser gear in Motorcycle-Superstore.com's Holiday Gift Guides.
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