Miles are quickly adding up this new year. I changed my 200mm rear tire down on the Keys during Phil Peterson's Poker Run to Key West, and just changed my front 21in. Feels good to have a fresh oil change and new rubber on the asphalt.
As a Christmas present, I finally broke down and purchased a new helmet with flip-up face shield--actually, the first one I have ever had. It's a Jet II from Harley Davidson. It didn't take long to get used to the comfy, snuggly fit. The first bug that bounced off of it sounded like an aluminum bat making contact with a softball. Ping! It also muffles the sound of my pipes which have Rush mufflers on them. The reason I bought it was for winter riding. Believe it or not, it can get to freezing here in Florida. The coldest day so far this year was riding in at 38 degrees F. My face was fine with my windshield on and the face shield down on the helmet. The only thing that was cold were my hands. Definitely need a solution for that. I've been looking at dual powered gloves, battery and wired in. They are ridiculously expensive, at 200 dollars. I'll probably just go with a heavier glove. One good thing about the FXST I ride are the grips and levers which allow for a large glove while still offering control.
 |
| Jet II |
It's easy to get spoiled with this helmet. I thought I would be claustrophobic in it, but that is not the case. My first ride was without my windshield on the forks and it was a great! The face shield flips up and I suggest wearing sunglasses inside, just for further protection. You can ride with the shield in the up position if you like with no ill effects. During foggy mornings, the shield does accumulate condensation, but after a while of riding in the up position it clears itself. I love the feel of the wind in my face with just a half helmet, but for serious commuting it makes sense to have this 3/4 helmet with flip-up shield. Helmets are not required in Florida, but for my daily commute, which is a 50 mile round trip, I think helmets are a good idea. Plus, since I work at a college, I think it sets a better example for students--just my thoughts.
I'm really looking forward to heading to Daytona this year for bike week, which for the first time ever, coincides with our Spring Break, the week we are off. I'm going to try and at least plan on staying in a tent if I can strap it on the back of the bike. It can be cold in Daytona during March. I'm hoping that some of my peeps on twitter can meet up while I'm up there. You can follow me on twitter @softailrich.
Well here's to the new year. Safe travels, and I wish you all prosperity and fun journeys in the new year! Rich.
No comments:
Post a Comment