AGV Donkey Face Helmet

Donkey Face

Happy Holidays and thank you for your continued patronage all these years. We hope to serve you again in 2010. AGV has announced two new Valentino Rossi helmets for the Vale lover. For 2010 and available in January/February, AGV will issue the AGV Donkey GP Tech helmet, which really should be called the "Donkey Face", as a play on the most recent Face helmet. The Donkey will be a limited edition helmet. We don't have the numbers yet on how limited. Designed by Aldo Drudi and worn by Valentino at Misano, this is a helmet that will put a smile on your face and an ass on your head. Motostrano is taking pre-orders for this helmet now. Available and shipping now, the new AGV Rossi K3 Celebrate 8 Helmetis modeled in graphics after the GP Tech Celebrate 8, at 1/4 the price: $219.95. A great helmet for the buck, the K3 has features of more expensive helmets crammed into a small budget. Now, with these cool Rossi graphics, the K3 is even better. Motostrano.com

ICON MIL SPEC FIELD ARMOR VEST

ICON released a new protection device for the street rider today. Based on a fusion of their hi-vis vest and the Field armor protection vest, this product is designed to give you the best of both products in one unit, the Icon Mil Spec Field Armor Vest. The Field Armor vest rewrote the definition of street protection. A truly innovative product that rightfully dominates the competition. Combining this product with our industry leading Mil Spec vest was an easy decision. All the low-profile protection afforded by the FA vest combined with the daytime and nighttime high conspicuousness of the Mil Spec vest. Truly a win-win situation.Meets Mil Spec PPE Requirements Breathable Nylon Mesh Chassis w/ Synthetic Leather Overlays Impact Absorbing Articulated Back Plastic Elastic Adjustment Straps Form-Fitting Chassis stays in Place Abrasion Resistant Slider Panels Reinforced Rubber Chest Armor Impact Dispersing Molded Foam Imported. Icon Mil Spec Field Armor Vest

Motorcycle Tire Deals at twowheelsteals.com

Grab some new rubber for cheap at twowheelsteals.com. Michelin tires, continental tires, avon tires, pirelli tires. good deals!

It's the 30th Anniversary of "Take it to the Limit"

It's the 30th Anniversary of "Take it to the Limit," the moto-race movie starring Kenny Roberts, Barry Sheene, Mike Hailwood, Steve Baker, Roer DeCoster, Bruce Penhall, Debbie Evans, Russ Collins, Gary Scott, Marty Smith and more.

Director Peter Starr will introduce the film at two special Bay Area screenings, and the $20 tickets are tax deductible since 100% of the proceeds benefits Prostate Cancer Awareness & Education. It's for a good cause! The movie is 97 minutes.

Sponsors are Urban Moto Magazine, Munroe Motors, HJC Helmets, Motion Pro, GEICO, Bennett Distributing, Lucas Oil, Bay Area Riders Forum, with co-sponsors Alice's Restaurant, American Sportbike Night, D-Store SF, Dudley Perkins Co., Northstar MC, San Francisco Motorcycle Club, and The Vampires MC.

Please tell your friends and you'll probably see others. Come to either show. The flyer is attached. There might even be raffles before the movie!

Advance Tickets and movie trailers at www.takeittothelimit.tv

SF Tues Dec 8 7:30pm

Roxie Theatre (SF Mission)
3117 16th St (Valencia & Guerrero)
San Francisco 415-863-1087
Bike Parking out front or at lot Mission Bank 3060 16th St @Mission/Valencia ($5/car)

Afterward we’ll go across the street for a drink at Kilowat

San Jose Wed Dec 9 7:30pm

Camera 3 Cinema downtown
288 So. Second St. 2 blocks from University
San Jose 408-9998-3300
Parking: free validated parking in garage above theatre

Afterward we’ll walk 1 block to the bar at Original Joe’s
301 S. 1st St.

Felt Cruiser Bikes

if it rolls, kiss it

Last week Motostrano added Felt Bicycles to it's line-up of very cool products. It's hard not to like these burley little cruisers. Yea, we know- no motor. So what? They're cool!!! Felt Bicycles "lifestyle catalog" consists of an array of bicycles including classic cruisers, urban city bikes, fixie bikes and swanky cafe style bicycles. We like 'em. We sell 'em. The Felt "Vintage Iron" bikes are inspired from off-road trophy bikes fromBultaco and Yamaha, complete with drum front brake! Light weight, beautifully painted, these bikes feature off-road biased tires, number plates, 3 speed internal rear hub and a comfortable ride. Many of the bikes in the cruise line-up are modeled after vintage cafe racers, board trackers and antique cruiser motorcycles. The Felt Twin is one of our favorites, as is the military police replica bike, the MP. The bikes use giant balloon 26 x 2.125 tires on wide rims. Many of the bikes feature full fenders, front and rear, coaster brakes and wide springy seats. Amazing bicycles. Stop by our store and check these things out. Motostrano.com

Supermoto Gloves

Motostrano's top picks for supermoto gloves.

What to look for in a quality supermoto glove:

• Leather
• Knuckle Protection
• Flexibility
• Double stitched seams
• Multiple leather protection on palms
• Vented leather panels

Motostrano sells a lot of gloves to supermoto riders. Note we prefer leather gloves, not fabric MX gloves for supermoto, for the sole reason that we've seen too many shredded gloves and hands from the use of MX gloves on pavement. Here are some of our favorite supermoto gloves for both racers and street riders!

• Alpinestars SP-S Glove, $89.99. In our view the best short glove makes ans has made for the past 5 years. High quality leather everywhere. Excellent carbon fiber knuckle protection, very comfortable. These hold up well in a crash, as well as day in and day out use for years in all weather.
• Alpinestars OCTANE Glove, $79.95. One of the first supermoto-specific gloves to come out, designed by Alpinestars after years of input and testing from professional supermoto racers.
• Alpinestars S-1 Glove, $149.95. Since coming out with the OCTANE, Alpinestars stamped out a long range of copycat gloves with slight variations. This S1 glove again is degined with supermoto in mind and takes the Octane further, covering the wrist area with padded and leather and adding beefy knuckle protection to the glove as well.
  
• Racer's Short Sport, $124.95 is a super comfortable short street riding glove. One of the most comfortable short gloves we sell. Designed for road use.
  

Supermoto Gift Ideas

"just in time for the holidays", as they say

We thought we'd give all the supermoto fans out there some ideas for Xmas gifts this season, seeing how it's getting close to the holidays and all. As a motorcycle rider, the last thing you may want is a new scarf this Christmas. You can use these ideas either for yourself, or your friends. Hint... pass this email on to the gift-giver in your local proximity...

A no-brainer gift for the active supermoto fan, racer or run-of-the-mill motorcyclist out there: any one of our four Supermoto DVDs. Impossible to find in stores, Motostrano stocks the DVDs and chances are good you or your buddies don't own all of them yet. Supermoto 2009 and Severe Supermoto 2 are new titles that were recently released.

We all have that friend, relative or husband or wife out there who's been struggling along in the Sportsman Class with their stock wheels and brakes, limping across the finishing line with cooked brake calipers and melted half-knobbies. Champions, they are, in their own class, but we all know they secretly or loudly desire a proper supermoto set-up. Motostrano's supermoto conversion kits start at $1100 right now and we can get kits out in time for Christmas.

Another great gift idea is any kind of product that is protective. Not only do many riders do without these items, it also makes a solid statement that you care about your favorite supermotardist and want as few bruises on them as possible. Motostrano stocks body armor products from Acerbis, Alpinestars, TPRO and others.

Other apparel related items include motorcycle gloves, a new jacket or under suit. Motorcycle boots, motorcycle socks, waterproof things.

Finally, casual wear items are a fool-proof gift for any motorsports fan. Alpinestars hoodies, t-shirts and hats are a great gift for any motorcycle rider. Many of our hoodies and t-shirts are on sale and we also have our popular Alpinestars T-Shirt Three Pack available again.

Motostrano as an easy return policy in case something doesn't fit or the receipient doesn't like the item. Around the holidays we extend our return policy time for easy returns and exchanges. If you think a return is possible, please make sure to avoid purchasing close-out items, since we reduced prices on these items drastically but also restrict our returns on them. Our close-out items are located here, here and here.

Need help? Give us a call or email us for more ideas. We're happy to recommend sizes on clothing or parts for a specific type of motorcycle.

Motostrano.com 650-780-9306

Sneak Peak: Givi Ducati Streetfighter Luggage

We got a sneak peak of some soft luggage to be available soon for the Ducati Streetfighter:

Science Minute: Eyes Wide Shut

Science Minute:

Today scientists in Geneva, Switzerland announced a new technology designed to allow car drivers to maintain their speed while facing the sun. Dr. Franz Augen, who grew up in the small town of Scheinberg, says he came up with the chemical theory for tinting plastic while on vacation last summer in California. The new technology called "Sunglasses" is expected to transform the way we drive when facing the sun.

Dr. Augen: "We were traveling with my family near San Francisco one early morning, when suddenly all of the traffic came to a near stop and I thought Was ist Das? Was ist los? Some type of incident? Are they construction on the road? Thirty minutes later, when we came to the end of the traffic, there was nothing. I was shocked."

That's when Dr. Augen, a Chemical engineer, looked up and saw that it was the sun that was causing all of this traffic and that nothing was actually in the road to make so many drivers slow down to a near stop.

"I realized that if you constructed two pieces of plastic with a dark tint built into them and placed them over the eyes, the drivers would still be allowed to see where they are going, but not be so blinded by the blinding rays of the Sun."

These "Sunglasses" are held up on to the driver's face by way of a bridge structure over the nose and ears. While wearing them, the user can still see where they are going, even while looking in the direction of the sun, thus allowing the user to drive facing the sun, without slowing down. When not in use, the apparatus can be stored safely in a shirt pocket, a purse, or a glove box.

Though Dr. Augen's invention is still in testing mode, he says, one day we might be able to purchase "Sunglasses" every where, perhaps even at any gas station.

Former Department of Transportation Secretary Maryann Occhi agrees, "Sunglasses could go a long way to improving traffic flow and decreasing congestion on our nations highways."

Team Intents Race Report - Motegi

Race Report for Team Intents Racing / Motostrano / JST Racing Round #9 of All Japan Supermoto at Twin Ring MOTEGI

Team Intents Racing / Motostrano / JST Racing is a two-rider team including, Travis Marks #64 and Brandon Case #33. Travis Marks has a background in motocross and begin racing supermoto in 2003 with the start of the AMA Supermoto Series. Brandon Case will be competing in his first full year in XTRM/AMA Supermoto Series. Both riders will be competing on 09 Honda CRF 450 in the Premier class at the 2009 XTRM/AMA Supermoto Series and selected local races. Team Sponsors are Intents Racing, Motostrano.com, JST Racing, Motion Pro, SME, Hammerhead, Independent, Pro Honda Oils, Leo Vince, Alpinestar, Larabar, Superpass and www.harryhoffman.com. Travis Marks would also like to thank, Shoei, Hart and Huntington, American Supercamp, Pinit Motorsports and X Brand Goggles Brandon Case would also like to thank, JA Cook Investments Inc., Precision Intermedia, Bad Asstrich’s Designs, Mammoth Motorsports and Pacific Motorsports

Although the AMA season had finished up at Miller Motorsports Park in Utah on Sept. 6th, Team Intents Racing / Motostrono / JST Racing was busy getting ready to send rider Travis Marks to Japan for the last MFJ supermoto race at the Motegi Twin Rings Track. With this being Travis’s first time traveling to Japan, long time sponsor John Tai from Motostrano and JST Racing head over to Japan with Travis. With the help from Saai Racing, Travis competed in the M1 class ( 450 Premier Class). The team shipped over Travis’s suspension, brakes, clutch, front wheel, tires and bars. Saai Racing had a Honda CRF 450 for Travis to use and support at the track. Travis had a great time in Japan and enjoyed racing against the riders in the MFJ M1 supermoto class. Team Intents Racing / Motostrano / JST Racing would also like to give an extra thanks to Russell at Intents Racing, Joe at Motostrano, Greg and Jeff at Alpinestar, Larabar, Chris at Motion Pro, Harry at SME, Hammerhead, Rich at X Brand Goggles, Sport Tire Services, Hart and Huntington and Superpass. Travis hopes to return next year for another race in Japan.

2009 MFJ SUPERMOTARD, ALL JAPAN SUPERMOTO

Round #8, Motegi Twin Rings Track, Oct. 24t and 25th
Lap Attack, M1 Premier Class #64 Travis Marks – 6th
Heat #1, M1 Premier Class #64 Travis Marks – 4th
Main, M1 Premier Class #64 Travis Marks – 5th

Ultra Motor A2B Short Term Review

I've been riding our demo A2B electric bike for the past week for testing purposes and the bike is living up to its reputation as a great commuter tool. I took the bike so far on 4 ten mile trips of varying terrain and it's performed very well.

Handling- thanks to the bike's stout frame, wide tires and burly suspension, the A2B Ultra Motor is very flickable at all speeds. The frame is well balanced and rider position is very comfortable. Not super sporty, but not wholly cruiser-like either. You feel like you are on a heavier bicycle or a very light moped. It feels much more planted than a standard light weight bicycle.

Speed- the speed of this bike is impressive, which isn't to say that I don't yearn for another ten or twenty mph out of it, but it definitely gets up and goes plenty fine for a bike of this weight. In the higher speeds, the bike seems to have two ranges- a cruising speed and a passing speed. As the battery wears down on longer trips, that passing speed seems to go away and the cruising speed drops a little.

Purism - To the purist bicyclist who would complain about the A2B being a cheater-bike. It is and it isn't. Throw an incline at the bike and you'll want to take the strain off the motor, keep up your speed and preserve battery range by pedaling. Pedaling is easy and comfortable. You'll also do the same off the line, when starting from a stop. So, though the bike has a motor, you're doing a good amount of pedaling to keep the bike moving and that's good for your body and the bike. You can get a good work-out with the A2B ultra motor if you want and if you don't, you don't have to. And- when you're not getting a good pedaling work-out- know that you're taking advantage of the bike's small footprint, easy of parking and other advantages that you don't get otherwise.

Hills- I put the bike to some major incline tests to see how it would perform on hills, since hills are one of the main things that customers will want the A2B for. The A2B is fine on medium hills, though your speed will decrease a little and battery life starts to dwindle. On very very steep hills, the A2B's motor will stop working and make you walk. I tested it on a short very steep hill that I can't pedal up on a regular bike and the A2B did not like it. I then tested the A2B on a 2 mile incline that I can climb on a regular bike and the bike did well. It was strained to a degree and speed was reduced, but it pulled like a champ, requiring some good pedaling on my part. When you give this bike some serious hills though, that's when the A2B stops being like a scooter and starts being a heavy bicycle. A definite bonus: just as you crest that grueling hill, unlike a regular bike, squeeze the juice and you can ride out that last few feet of your hill and relax. Another bonus- though the bike is heavy and a little harder to push up hill, you can use the motor also to help lug it up any hill. Just flick the throttle a little and walk next to it at low speed.

Braking - the A2B has some excellent brakes. With the right adjustment this will stop quick at any speed and it will easily do a stoppie if you grab too much front brake.

Comfort- the positioning and geometry of the bike are very comfortable. I kind of wish it had a non-step-through frame so that I could use my knees for steering as well, but the wide seat and wide stance of the bike don't necessitate that either.

My transit times were cut down significantly compared to the same trip done on a standard bicycle. This means you can get to work or home quicker and a little less strained, but you're still putting in effort to keep the bike going.

So far, the A2B Ultra Motor electric bicycle is proving to be a great option for folks looking to get out of their cars more often and get on two wheels. Great for every day commutes under twenty miles. Great for bolting down to the grocery store and nearby cafe. Use it to get to work and you'll avoid the rat-race-pull-your-hair-out mornings that your neighbors have to endure. Use it for mid-day lunch dashes and you'll have enough time to go that favorite place a few miles further than you would normally go, that also may not have any parking, without jumping into your car.

Ultra Motor A2B Electric Bike

This week Motostrano added an electric bicycle to its product mix, with the Ultra Motor A2B Electric Bicycle.

See, we figured with electric bikes being oh about a hundred years old by now, it was time for a motor-cycle shop to jump in on the e-bike bandwagon. We're quick like that. Motorcycles began their lives originally as motorized bicycles, so you could say we are de-evolving.

The A2B electric bike is a blast to ride. It's kind of like riding downhill- all the time. Pedal if you want, coast if you want. Enjoy the scenery. Take it slow. Enjoy the silence. Park on the sidewalk, use the bike lane, carry your bike up to your apartment. Park your commuter tool in your cubicle. Whatever.

These bikes have a 20 mile range on the main battery. Double that with an add-on secondary battery. They cruise without pedaling at 20MPH (the legal limit for a motorized bicycle) and you can boost that up a few with pedal power. Riding an A2B is like riding a light weight moped but you can actually use it also as a bicycle if you want. Charge it up and go.

The wheels and tires on the bike are beefy, as is the frame and seat, giving this bike a firm and planted feel. Posture is a comfort bike/ cruiser bike stance.

Full suspension front and rear. Adjustable.

These bikes have a two year warranty with one year on the battery.

Good clean fun. A great way to commute to and fro work with some pedaling and still have Brianna give you that sexy wink she gives you every morning instead of arriving to work a sweaty mess.

Motostrano is a stocking dealer of the A2B. We will also be adding a full range of OEM and aftermarket accessories to our online catalog, including spare parts and upgrades. Call us to schedule a demo and buy one of these great bikes.

Akrapovic Ducati Streetfighter Exhaust

Akrapovic Titanium

Akrapovic's new slip-on exhaust for the Ducati Streetfighter is now in stock! A truly beautiful exhaust paired to a very beautiful motorcycle. The new Akrapovic system features twin hexagonal shaped mufflers with titanium or carbon fiber muffler sleeve. Additionally, the Ducati Streetfighter puts out a powerful racing sound with this system. You will also save up to 3.45 kg compared to the stock Ducati exhaust system. In both configurations, mufflers include removable noise dampers. The Akrapovic SLIP-ON open system greatly increases the potential of the big twin cylinder engine. Both power and torque are increased over the entire rpm range, with the greatest increase shown in the middle and top of the range. We measured 147.79 HP at 9929 rpm, while the max. increased power of 4.95 HP was measured at 9850 rpm. That results in a much smoother ride as the biggest gain of power starts from 4500 rpm. We also received more stock of the extremely rare and equally expensive full Akrapovic exhaust for the BMW HP2. These systems are all hand built by Akrapovic and offers a whopping 6.2HP increase! Motostrano.com

Winter Riding Gloves Keep Your Fingers Toasty

If they still have Winter where you live, check out what's available to keep your hands warm and dry for the cold season in the way of Alpinestars Winter glove line-up. Alpinestars currently offers sixteen variations of the cold weather riding glove with price points all over the map. From the classic Alpinestars ST-1 glove for $39.95, to the APEX Drystar gloves we have on sale right now for $59.95, to the ultimate winter glove, the Alpinestars 365 Gloves for $229.95.

And, for practically the price of a t-shirt or two, motorcycle gloves make a great Christmas gift if you're in the planning mode for gifts and we offer extended return times around the holidays.

Motostrano also offers the full line of winter and track gloves from Racer, SIDI and ICON.

Motostrano.com

Alpinestars SG-1 Leather Suits

Recessions are great if you still have any money and want to buy things. Everything just gets cheaper! Like this great one or two piece leather suit made by Alpinestars. Motostrano is selling the venerable Alpinestars SG-1 One Piece Leather Suit for just $385.95! You can also get the two piece version for the same price. These are flying out of here so grab one while you can.

The Alpinestars SG-1 One Piece Leather Suit features 1.2-1.4mm full-grain leather for excellent abrasion resistance. CE certified elbow, shoulder, knee and shin protectors. Multiple stitched main-seam construction for maximum tear resistance. Perforated leather panels for ventilation. Removable mesh liner. Replaceable PU Sport knee sliders. Ergonomically placed stretch cordura panels for optimal flexibility. Padded back panel for added comfort. Leather flex zones for optimum mobility. Printed and microinjected logos. Zipper wrist closure. Secure snap connection system on the back for Tech Race protector (accessory).

Arrow Aprilia SXV Exhaust

We are importing this new exhaust from ARROW for the Aprilia SXV 4.5 and 5.5.
We hope to get get some better photos soon as well.

Alpinestars BIONIC NECK Support SB

New for 2010, Alpinestars has put out a budget neck support retailing for just $289.95
The Alpinestars Bionic Neck Support (BNS) is a structure which is 
designed to work with a helmet to reduce the risk and severity of a 
catastrophic neck injury.* Rear Stabilizer Failure system - In the event of large loads being 
channeled onto the rear stabilizer there are several deliberate bending and fracture points. * Collar Bone preservation 1 - All parts in contact with the body use an expanded foam compound to distribute the impact force over the widest area, yet remain light in weight. * Collar Bone preservation 2 - A continuous frame member runs over the shoulders. There are no weak points in a critical part of the frame and there are no metal pins or screws sitting directly above the shoulders. * Choice of Strap Systems - The BNS is supplied with the X-Strap System which allows a small, light strap to secure the device to the rider.

Motostrano Supermoto Conversion Kits

Motostrano Supermoto Conversion kits are the easiest way to transform your bike to supermoto duty.

Twowheelsteals.com Update

Twowheelsteals.com has been loaded up with fresh deals this week. 20-30% savings on helmets, jackets, boots, gloves. Close-out and clearance items reduced for the fall season!

Motostrano Gets Rave Customer Ratings!

For the seventh straight year, Motostrano has received rave reviews from customers all over the world! We thank our customers for submitting those reviews to Yahoo, Yelp and Google and where ever else they come from.

But, before you go off thinking we just like to toot our own horn about how great and perfect we are - we're not perfect and we have the battle scars to prove it. Like any one else, we make mistakes. We're human, just like you are. We're not always the fastest, we're not always the cheapest, we don't always have it in stock all the time, we're not always accurate in what we put in a box, etc. Sometimes, we can't even even fix a mistake after the fact, as hard as we try. But we do try and at the end of the day, that's really all we can do.

So, with that in mind, it's re-assuring for every one at Motostrano to see the statistics and look at reviews from actual customers talking about orders after the fact and using specific criteria.

Our BBB rating has consistently been an A+

Our Yahoo Shopping Rating has always been a 4.5 out of 5 positive

On Yelp we're something close to 4.75 out of 5 positive

On Google we have 4 out of 5 stars

Alpinestars Clearance Sale

Our yearly Alpinestars fall clearance sale is going on now. We have reduced prices on a number of top Alpinestars leather and textile products including two leather suit models, a number of leather and textile jackets and leather and textile gloves. While supplies last, you can pick up a one or two piece leather road race suit for just $389.95. Other deals include leather jackets selling for $250, leather and waterproof gloves selling for 40% off. Motostrano.com Note- inventory goes fast at these prices. Prices are subject to availability.

NEW: Alpinestars Supertech Touring Boots

The Alpinestars Supertech Touring Gore-Tex boot was released this fall and it's really not until you see the boot in person and try it on that you come to grasp what a great boot this is. Yes, it's expensive at $459.95 and rightly so, because you just can't buy a better boot for touring and wet weather sport bike riding.

A game changer in the touring waterproof boot arena. Imagine taking characteristics from Alpinestars' top of the line road racing boot, the Supertech R, with characteristics of the best touring boot you can find and feeding them into a super computer cad machine, twist the dial a little, turn up the quality levels a lot, and see what it makes. The Supertech Touring Boot is the best waterproof sport bike boot we've ever seen. Period- and the photos and descriptions you're looking at online right now simply do not due it justice.

Made from full grain leather with a waterproof Gore-Tex® membrane for all weather riding, the Supertech Touring Gore-Tex® is a versatile touring and sport riding boot with high impact protection for those who would rather lead than follow. Made with full-grain leather with a breathable, waterproof Gore-Tex® membrane. Double injected PU in shin, calf, heel and toe for impact and abrasion protection. Reinforced shifter panel over toe. Removable EVA foam sole provides excellent shock absorption and impact protection. Innovative dual side closure: Inner side entry/exit has an elastic mounted zipper and extra wide Velcro® flap for a precise fit and a wide opening aperture for easy access. External calf closure provides additional adjustability with a Velcro® closure. Calf fit is customizable with a dual Velcro® tab adjuster and inner stretch panel. Additional internal quick lace panels for customized fit and extra waterproofing. Lacing has slide locking system with Velcro ended tab for extra secure, no slip lacing. Double compound rubber sole provides the optimum in grip, performance and durability. Supertech Touring Gore-Tex is CE certified.

Yoshimura DRZ400 Parts

Yoshimura has put out a slew of DRZ400 parts for the supermotarder.

Starting with the Yoshimura Suzuki DRZ400 Case Savers, Yoshimura has created a two part billet kit for protecting your DRZ400's engine cases. These bolt directly to your case using stock hardware. They are anodized in a kind of bronze color.

Next, Yoshimura now offers a Suzukii DRZ400 Engine Plug kit consisting of one large and one small engine plug for your DRZ400. Both are anodized in the same bronze type color.

The Yoshimura Suzuki DRZ400 Axle Blocks are also a new addition to the Yoshimura hard parts line-up. Again anodized in the bronze coloring, these are billet aluminum blocks.

A new DRZ400 Steering Stem Nut, billet aluminum and anodized.

Last on the list so far is the new Yoshimura Suzuki DRZ400 Fender Eliminator. Nevermind that supermoto guys traditionally don't buy fender eliminators, but this kit is actually a short license plate holder and features an LED tail light.

All of these parts are of a very high quality, well machined and light weight. They also bolt on easy and will look trick next to the Yoshimura Full Dual Exhaust System for the DRZ400.

The Collectible AGV Rossi Face Helmet

All the good sizes in this helmet are gone, if you intend to wear the helmet. Still, MotoGP and Valentino Rossi enthusiasts from all over the world are contacting us to buy and collect this helmet. Buy it, own it, get it signed, keep it on a shelf or in the box fresh and new, the AGV Rossi Face Helmet is a very collectible helmet and still available in size 3XL!

Motostrano has been selling these highly collectible AGV Helmets for the past five years.

Akrapovic Exhaust Product Line

ON ROAD

Bolt-On Line
The Akrapovic Bolt-on line represents the first step in exhaust system tuning, which is parallel to our Slip-on line. It replaces a stock muffler that is bolted to the header assembly. With the Bolt-on system you will get more power, more torque and less weight, which all reflects in a smoother ride and is the best compromise between price and performance.

A carbon fiber outer muffler sleeve is also available
The muffler clamp is made from carbon fiber; the metal clamp that is welded to the muffler can in some cases replace our regular carbon fiber clamp
Repair kits are available for all models
Some models are available in a homologated street legal version
A muffler insert to reduce noise is optional

Slip-On Line
The Akrapovic Slip-on line represents the first step in exhaust system tuning. It is simple to install and replaces a stock muffler. It is also the best compromise between price and performance. With our Slip-on system you will get more power, more torque and less weight, which all reflects in a smoother ride.

A carbon fiber outer muffler sleeve is also available
The muffler clamp is made from carbon fiber; the metal clamp that is welded to the muffler can in some cases replace our regular carbon fiber clamp
Repair kits are available for all models
Some models are available in a homologated street legal version
A muffler insert to reduce noise is optional


Racing Line
This is a complete high-quality stainless steel exhaust system made from conical tubes with precision handcrafting and attention to detail. Its unique design enables it to obtain the maximum output for each specific model of a motorcycle, while significantly reducing overall weight for top performance in everyday riding or even in most demanding races. It is identical to our top range Evolution Line exhaust system. The only difference is in the material that is used.

A carbon fiber outer muffler sleeve is also available
Use of hydroforming technology for an optimized exhaust gas flow
The muffler clamp is made from carbon fiber; the metal clamp that is welded to the muffler can in some cases replace our regular carbon fiber clamp
Repair kits are available for all models
Some models are available in a homologated street legal version
A muffler insert to reduce noise is optional

Evolution Line
This is the flagship of the Akrapovic exhaust system range, used and tested by our top factory teams in motorsport racing. It is simply the finest exhaust system available. Each model is unique and dedicated to maximizing the performance of an engine, while reducing overall weight for optimized handling of the whole motorcycle. It is made entirely of titanium, with the muffler outer sleeve available in carbon fiber as well. In most cases we also offer street legal versions.

A carbon fiber outer muffler sleeve is also available
Use of hydroforming technology for an optimized exhaust gas flow
The muffler clamp is made from carbon fiber; the metal clamp that is welded to the muffler can in some cases replace our regular carbon fiber clamp
Repair kits are available for all models
Some models are available in a homologated street legal version
A muffler insert to reduce noise is optional

OFF ROAD

Slip-On Line
The Akrapovic Slip-On system is designed for recreational riders. It delivers an excellent combination of quality, durability, performance, visual enhancements, easy installation, and affordability. It is available with an approved spark arrester for use in the US market; and with a noise damper for use in EU and other non-US markets.

The muffler clamp is made from carbon fiber
Repair kits are available for all models

Racing Line
This is a complete high-quality stainless steel exhaust system made from conical tubes with precision handcrafting and attention to detail. Its unique design enables it to obtain the maximum output for each specific model of a motorcycle, while significantly reducing overall weight for top performance. It is identical to our top range Evolution Line exhaust system. It only differs is in the material that is used.

A carbon fiber outer muffler sleeve is also available
Use of hydroforming technology for an optimized flow of exhaust gases
The muffler clamp is made from carbon fiber
Repair kits are available for all models

Evolution Line
This is the flagship of the Akrapovic exhaust system range, used and tested by our top factory teams in motorsport racing. It is simply the finest exhaust system available. Each model is unique and dedicated to maximizing the performance of an engine, while reducing overall weight for optimized handling of the whole motorcycle. It is made entirely of titanium, with the muffler outer sleeve available in carbon fiber as well.

A carbon fiber outer muffler sleeve is also available
Use of hydroforming technology for an optimized flow of exhaust gases
The muffler clamp is made from carbon fiber
Repair kits are available for all models

Akrapovic Ducati Streetfighter Exhaust

Akrapovic has released a brand new exhaust system for one of the sexiest motorcycles currently available. The Ducati Streetfighter is an exotic beauty. Now Akrapovic has made it possible to upgrade the performance and sound of this amazing motorcycle.

The new Akrapovic Ducati Streetfighter exhaust offers a great balance between price and performance, and represents the first step in the exhaust system tuning process. In addition to performance, the twin hexagonal shaped mufflers with titanium or carbon fiber muffler sleeve adds a clean racing look. Additionally, the Ducati will put out a much more powerful racing sound. You will also save up to 3.45 kg compared to the stock Ducati exhaust system. In both configurations, mufflers include removable noise dampers.

Akrapovic says "The Akrapovic SLIP-ON open system greatly increases the potential of the big twin cylinder engine. Both power and torque are increased over the entire rpm range, with the greatest increase shown in the middle and top of the range. We measured 147.79 HP at 9929 rpm, while the max. increased power of 4.95 HP was measured at 9850 rpm. That results in a much smoother ride as the biggest gain of power starts from 4500 rpm.

Huge Akrapovic Exhaust sale

Motostrano is having a huge Akrapovic Exhaust sale featuring discounts up to 60% on some Akrapovic full exhaust systems. On sale are both the Akra EVO and RACING LINE full exhaust systems, as well as some Akrapovic slip-on exhausts. Exhausts that only a few months ago sold for $1800 are now available for less than $900! A great deal if you have 2004 to 2006 Honda, Suzuki and Kawasaki sportbikes. Some Ducati exhaust systems are also on sale.

Alpinestars Soho Gore-Tex Boot

A Sharp Boot

High quality boots that fit well, don't make you feel like your wearing cement galoshes, and offer good protection and feel on your bike are becoming harder and harder to find. As the economy batters corporate bottom lines, more and more manufacturers of motorcycle protective boots are either narrowing their product range, or trying to charge the same price for the better products they once made while stripping out the stuff that made them good in the first place.

When it comes to boots, Alpinestars appears to be going in the opposite direction. Over the past year, we've seen Astars come out with better and better boot products in all categories and, while their retail prices may be rising to compensate for fewer sales and increased costs, some excellent footwear products come into being.

One boot well worth a look, if you ride in the street, is the new Alpinestars Soho Gore-Tex Boot. This is a higher end waterproof commuter / touring boot with classic non-moto boot looks and fine soft leather. How a motorcycle boot should look and how an Alpinestars boot should perform. It's a mid-calf leather and waterproof Gore-tex lined boot with protection at the shin, calf, heel and toe. You can easily wear this boot with nearly any bike, be it a sport bike, sport tourer, cruiser, standard, s-moto. Released just a few days ago, the SOHO Boot is shipping now.

Motostrano.com

Please also check our TwoWheelSteals web site for super blow out bargains currently featuring Alpinestars, THOR, Troy Lee Designs and other brands.

Fuel on the Fear Fire

The recent American Motorcyclist Association alert regarding healthcare reform sparked a heated debate over at Hell For Leather recently that is worth checking out.

I managed to assemble and post a respectable comment on the topic as well:

"I wrote about the AMA warning in my own blog and was amazed to hear that the largest organization in the country for motorcyclists rights won't take a stand on the issue of healthcare one way or another, BUT, the AMA has no problem throwing more fuel on the fire of fear.

The AMA needs to take a stand on this issue and stand behind motorcyclists who are constantly being denied health care coverage based on the fact that they ride a motorcycle and/or have have been to the ER room one too many times as a result of a crash either on the street or on the track.

The AMA promotes, sanctions and sponsors professional and amateur racing, and rider safety, for American citizens that cannot afford to have comprehensive insurance. We all know of professional and amateur racers who have survived their crashes, only to be hit with impossible health care bills that they end up spending the rest of their lives paying out of their own pockets. You can only have so many donation web sites where racers ask for donations from fans to help pay for their medical bills after they have had a debilitating crash and they are stuck in a rehab for the rest of their lives.

I own a motorcycle accessories store where I cannot afford to pay my employees' health coverage and nor can they afford it. I have friends who have been in accidents, who, instead of being able to help pay for a college education, waste their dreams away paying down their medical bills. I have customers and friends in the industry telling me they are being refused health coverage from their employer's group plans and when the DO eventually get coverage they get it only by keeping their motorcycle riding a secret. That works, as long as they never find out.

Employers today use the Internet to determine whether or not an employee is worthy of a job. I imagine a day in the future - perhaps it's already taking place - where health insurance companies will look you up on the web and find out what type of activities you engage in on your free time. Run a motorcycle blog? Forget it, you're high risk.

Motorcyclists need health care reform and they need it now and in a big way. They don't need another lobby group getting in the way of reform, as the AMA is doing.

The Democrats' ideas, though only a start in the right direction, are the way to go now. Achieving reform will bring more riders into the sport. I support a public option for all citizens. Bringing health care costs down means consumers have more dollars to spend on motorcycle related goods and services and it keeps riders and racers in the sport instead of hanging up their helmets because they simply cannot afford to participate in a high risk and perfectly legal activity.

Joe Witherspoon
Motostrano.com"

5 New Alpinestars Backpacks

Bag It

Alpinestars has put out five new backpacks that we think are worth a look. Alpinestars has rarely been one to skimp on their bags and backpacks and these new items follow in that same tried and true path so, hopefully you haven't all ready bought that back-to-school bag!

• The Alpinestars Protection Pack is a Swiss army knife of a bag, integrating back protection, generous storage and a helmet carrier into one tight package.
• The Alpinestars Range Pack is big and holds tons of stuff, plus a helmet.
• The Alpinestars Deploy Pack is a standard size back pack focused on laptop storage.
• The Alpinestars Commuter Pack reminds me of the tight and compact bags Bear Grylls uses in Man vs. Wild.
• The Alpinestars Hydro Pack is a comfortable, non-intrusive water carrier ergonomically designed to offer a close, low profile fit on the rider.

Motostrano.com

Please also check our TwoWheelSteals web site for super blow out bargains.

AMA Doesn't Take a Stand on Health Care Reform

AMA's comments on Health Care reform skirt around the important issues and do not take a stand for motorcyclists.

If all Americans were guaranteed health care, motorcyclists would not be left out to dry as they are now by private health insurance companies who have the right to dump eligible high-risk insurance customers as they like.

Motorcyclists are being denied insurance NOW without a universal care option because motorcyclists are too expensive to insure in a private system. We all know people who have been denied insurance even through their employer's health insurance program based on the fact that they've been to the emergency room one too many times as a result from riding motocross, racing, track days or just plain commuting.

Every one knows you can't actually TELL your insurance company you ride, let alone race, a motorcycle or engage in any form of risky and entirely legal behavior- even when their questionnaire specifically asks you if you do - or they'll throw you out.

It's sad to see that when you would need the AMA to take an actual stand on something, they cower to the back of the room and basically say - we're not going to say either way whether
we want reform reform or not, regardless that our members can barely get insured now, but our members should be afraid of reform and oh if you do pass reform just make sure
motorcyclists are not left out.

The right thing to do would have been to stand behind universal care for all American citizens.

Joe Witherspoon
motostrano.com

Cush Drives and Supermoto Wheels

Over the years we have fielded many calls and questions about cush drives and whether they are required for supermoto duty.

Some call them "puss drives", others believe that having one is a requirement for any motorcycle and without one your rear shock could break off and ram up the back of your motor and continue on upwards. Others are just plain skeptical and don't know what to believe. Still others could not give a hoot what they are or why you'd need one.

Cush drives are rubber dampening cushions that typically line where your wheel hub bolts to your sprocket. The idea is that adding a rubber bushing in between these two metal contact points will relieve stress torque on your parts. Large 600CC, 1000CC and 1200CC bikes almost always feature a cush drive in order to help the bike manage the heavy loads the rear drive train must endure under heavy power torque. Small sub-600 motorcycles rarely feature a cush drive, with the exception of factory KTM hubs in the 450, 525 range, etc.

I've been selling Supermoto and motocross wheels for the past 7 years and have yet to sell a wheel with cush drive for any bike under 600 CC. I've also yet to hear about any KTM or other bike owner talk about any adverse affects from not using a cush drive in supermoto. So, you might say, that's 7 years of real world product research, with hundreds of wheels still rolling around out there piloted by countless street riders, as well as pro racers like Micky Dymond, Travis Marks, Cary Hart and others, pounding on our wheels day in and day out.

Marchesini, Talon, DNA, Excel, Warp 9- all the most dominant wheels in Supermoto (and MotoCross) whether pro racing or every day commuting- and none of these manufacturers offer a cush drive on their KTM or any other wheels because it's unnecessary.

The common thing we here is a cush drive promotes transmission longevity and to that we say- Honda, Suzuki, Yamaha, Kawasaki, Husqvarna, Aprilia all do not feature a cush drive and we do not believe there is anything inherently weak about the KTM transmission that would require it to have a cush drive, any more or less than a Honda CRF, Suzuki DRZ or Yamaha YZ.

The one thing we might go along with is that it's possible that a cush drive could promote chain longevity, but even the likelihood of that in a noticeable way hasn't really been proven over the years.

What we do find is that some motorcycle owners get influenced by rumors and discussion forums started by folks with little more experience in the mechanics of their bikes than having read their owners manual. The only thing we have to fall back on to this issue is the facts.

Alpinestars Fall 2009 Addition Products

Alpinestars has released a number of intriguing products for fall 2009 and we are liking them. The theme of many of the new stuff seems to be one of product fusion. It's almost as if the product designers and creative department took a chunk of existing but widely different products, through them in a bag and shook them up, to see what would come out of the mix. Take a casual hoody out of the fridge, add one waterproof motorcycle jacket and shake: enjoy your refreshing Northshore Tech Fleece smoothie. Grab a full blown race boot off the shelf, add one quart of waterproof touring boot, stir, add one or two large olives and take a sip of a stiff Supertech Touring Boot martini. We have some of the choice products up on our home page now. The rest is neatly categorized in our Alpinestars section.

Motostrano.com

Please also check our TwoWheelSteals web site for super blow out bargains.

Alpinestars Monza Suit

I really hope the new Alpinestars Monza Leather Suit takes off. I really do. Alpinestars is one of the few suit manufacturers with the catalog width to offer real variety in their one and two piece leather suits and make them in colors outside the standard Black, Red and Blue colors. To offer a suit with Red, White and Green is bold. Only a few years ago Astars was making suits in all yellow and all green. That quickly went by the wayside and for the past 3 or 4 years your only color options have been black, red, blue and possibly white. Blah, blah, blah.

Alpinestars Fall 2009 Addition Products

Alpinestars has released a number of new items for their Fall 2009 catalog and these are available for pre-order now on Motostrano.com

There are two "big news" products as far as I can see so far, having just seen the new line up a few hours ago. Each of them are at opposite ends of the intended customer spectrum, as well as the price guage.

The first is a waterproof leather jacket and pants outfit. The Alpinestars 365 Gore-Tex Leather Jacket is a 100% waterproof leather jacket that's perforated and an engineering marvel. Or is it? I mean cows are waterproof, why shouldn't their hide be waterproof as Mother Nature intended it to be? In any event, special leather treating has made the hide waterproof and there are matching Alpinestars 365 Leather Pants as well, to go along with the Alpinestars 365 Leather Gloves that were released last Winter. Combine all three with some waterproof leather boots to be fully protected, dry and comfortable all at the same time. Jacket cost? $1299.00 Pants cost? $1199.00. So, 95% of the moto population will be whining and complaining about this over-priced engineering marvel; the other 2% will take a second job to pay for it and the remaining few percentages will plunk down their Titanium Amex cards and own this great gear. Motostrano hopes to cater to each and every one of them.

The other product, or pair of products, that we think are truly revolutionary are the Alpinestars Northshore Tech Fleece and the Alpinestars Quantum DNS Jacket. These jackets are said to be targeted for the urban city commuter and should also be popular with the hoody-n-tennies riders that either can't afford a jacket or don't care to use one. These are really just genetically enhanced hoodies and I'm suprised that Alpinestars stuck their foot out first with this and not ICON Motorsports. And more power to them, because like many of the products in the ICON line-up, the guys who ride around with no protection at all, need a nudge (or a kick) to get even some basic stuff on their body that performs better in a crash than 98% cotton; and schwank city commuters need a quick pullover jacket that has the possibility of protection, can deal with a little wet and walking around off the bike. When you factor in that you can actually buy high fashion or even FOX Racing hoodies for $100, the price tag on the Northshore, $159.00, really isn't a bad deal at all.

Give your bike a little more vision

“People only see what they are prepared to see.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson

Daylight savings is still a few months away, but if you're like me, you remember that the days get shorter and darker for a few months each year....so... don't get left out in the dark.... But you may not remember that Motostrano sells 22 different types of bolt on headlights for your supermoto, off-road or streetfighter conversion. Swapping out your headlight is an easy mod for your bike that's also comparatively an inexpensive way to change the look of your motorcycle while improving night-riding vision and visibility. We have parts that increase the alien look of your bike, such as the Acerbis Vision, Black Mamba or Cyclops and we have lights that double and triple night riding visibility like the Trail Tech Torch and Extreme Race Light. Each product comes in a wide variety of colors to match your bike. Most of these lights are priced below $100, making them an easy upgrade for the wallet to handle.

Motostrano.com

Please also check our TwoWheelSteals web site for super blow out bargains

ICON 2009 Products

ICON's fascination with militarism, monsters and cartoon women seems never ending. If you were over that already, too bad, because a whole new stream of products and their corresponding horror imagery have been unleashed to the world so that you can fulfill your MadMax end-of-the-world fantasies in brand new leather, textile, denim and Fiberglass.

But first, when the end of the civilized world does happen, the roads are going to be the first thing to go, which means that as a motorcycle rider you're going to spend more time crashing as you negotiate craters and ordnance. So, ICON has released what appears to be a pretty good CE approved back protector to catch your fall. And this thing is for sale at an "end of the world" price, at just $90 for the plane vanilla version or a little more for the fancy style.

Check out the whole line-up here.

Motostrano.com

Please also check our TwoWheelSteals web site for super blow out bargains.

ICON Stryker Back Protector

ICON has released what looks to be a real back protector.

The ICON Stryker Back Protector starts with a custom molded bio-foam chassis. Designed to mold to your back, air channels within the foam allow heat to escape resulting in reduced fatigue. Secured to the chassis are three layers of impact absorbing foam which are capped by an articulated reinforced plastic shell. The reinforced shell helps diffuse impact forces. In addition, the shoulder and waist straps are removable providing you with the option of installing the back protector into certain Icon jackets.

• EN 161-2/03/AC2006 Ce approval
• Removable shoulder and waist straps allows armor to be directly inserted into certain Icon jackets
• Custom armor plate finishing
• Comfortable and non-restrictive
• Custom molded biofoam chassis
• Imported

Available for $90 at Motostrano.com

Supermoto Clothing

Supermoto Clothing

Motostrano's "deal a day" web site, www.twowheelsteals.com has been updated with deals on supermoto clothing, parts and accessories. Most recently we updated 2009 and 2008 Troy Lee Designs clearance supermoto pants at a deep discount. Save 30 and 40% off retail for these and other items at twowheelsteals. You'll also find discounted helmets, gloves, bike parts, sprockets, brake rotors and more.

Also check out our Outlet store where we devote more close-out items categorized by item type.

X-Games 2009 is this weekend! Follow Motostrano on Twitter.

Motostrano.com