I've spent 51 years around hot rods, bikes and the people who ride them here in the Daytona area. When the mornings turn cool and Biketoberfest rolls into town, the same questions come up every year: How do I stay warm on the ride? How do I stay seen at night? And how do I keep somebody from walking off with my bike? Here's the gear I'd point a friend to.
1. USB Heated Vest – stay warm without bulk
Florida fall mornings fool people. It's 55 degrees at 60 mph and you're shivering by the first light. A rechargeable USB heated vest fixes that. It has adjustable heat zones, runs off a power bank, and fits under a jacket or cut. It's also machine washable once you pull the battery. Starting around $52.
2. LED Whips – be seen on the trail and at night
If you ride a UTV, side-by-side or dune buggy, an X Series LED whip is the easiest safety upgrade you can make. It's bright, it mounts on a quick-release base, and it lets other riders spot you over a hill or through dust. It comes in 2, 3 and 4 foot lengths and several colors.
3. Shift Locks – stop thieves cold
Electric dirt bikes like the Surron and Talaria are getting stolen everywhere. A steel shift lock and bracket, made in the USA, locks the foot peg area so the bike can't be ridden off. There are models for the Surron Light Bee X and the Surron Ultra Bee. It's cheap insurance on an expensive bike.
How to choose
- Commuting or cruising in cool weather: start with the heated vest.
- Off-road or night riding: get a whip for each machine.
- Own an e-bike: a shift lock is a must.
Where to get it
Everything above ships from GoGoGadgets61.com. Scan our QR code at Biketoberfest or shop online any time. Ride safe, stay warm, and God bless.
— Russell Burks, GoGoGadgets61.com