10 Stocking Stuffers for Riders

Here are 10 great stocking stuffer ideas for the special biker in your life. They’re easy on the budget and very thoughtful.

1. Women, Motorcycles and the Road to Empowerment.
   Three years and many lifetimes in the making, this book appeals to women, men, riders, non-riders – anyone will be able to identify with the experiences portrayed in at least a few of the stories. Order Autographed copies at 20% off list this month. You can order print and kindle versions (also 20% off) from Amazon through the sidebar on this page. Other formats available here.

1. Package Deal – Women, Motorcycles and the Road to Empowerment and American Borders
   Last time I saw Carla, she took copies of my book with her and is selling a fantastic package deal from  www.carlaking.com. Purchase both books for $30 US – plus shipping. It’s an honor for me  – and a great deal!

2. Roadside Assistance
   A CAA+/AAA membership will come in handy if a bike needs to be towed. AMA (American Motorcyclist Association) provides Roadside assistance with a membership and you’re supporting an organization that works hard to preserve our rights. Some manufacturers also support this through their rider affinity groups

3. Magazine subscription
   There are many to chose from, depending on the interests of the rider, so chose wisely. Look for useful information, interesting stories, skill tips and product reviews. Most offer discounted subscription rates at bike shows. You can’t go wrong with a subscription to Motorcycle Mojo Magazine!

4. Compact Tools Ones that can tuck into those small spaces on your bike and be invaluable at the side of the road. A few of my favorites are:
   – A compact allen key/screwdriver bit set – available at bicycle stores
   – An all-purpose wrench, like this one sold byLeeValley
   – A tire pressure gauge
   – Spare fuses

5. Training course
   One can never have enough skills training. Initial basic courses are a must for new riders – either a CSC, MSF or equivalent course. Off-road courses are invaluable for road riders and a next logical step. They teach you how to deal with the unexpected when it occurs on the road – and it always does. Clinton Smout’s SMART Program is an excellent source for a variety of programs and skill levels.

6. Compact Flashlight
   It gets pretty dark at the side of the road and any illumination from the controls is minimal. Trying to read a map is impossible. As is checking out a problem with your bike. There’s a handy flashlight app for smartphones; the flashlight shown at right is another great idea and the batteries last for years.

7. Portable compressor
   I was given one as a gift many years ago and have used it on numerous occasions to top up my tire pressure, and the tires of many other riders. It doesn’t take a lot of room.

8. Battery tender
   No more need to remove batteries in the winter or monitor battery chargers. This essential winter accessory keeps your battery charged, extending its life and making sure your bike is ready to go in the spring.

9. Camelback; hydration system
   A fellow traveler showed me how he strapped his camelback to his tank bag and could easily stay hydrated while riding. Again, there are a number of choices; I chose a 1 liter reservoir which is easy to access, fill and doesn’t leak.
   For reasons of comfort and safety, I will not strap on a backpack. This is an ideal alternative.

10. Throttle Control
    I just bought this handy little device this year and it’s a life-saver for long trips. Small and light, it clamps onto the throttle. Move it into position against the brake lever and it holds the throttle fairly steady – enough to give your wrist and arm a rest. Mine came from A Vicious Cycle

Happy Shopping!

Watch tomorrow’s post for lots more ideas from the readers of Motorcycle Mojo Magazine!