Trophy Mike

Vanson PROperf SCRV summer leather jacket. 1.7mm/3.5 oz. perforated leather. Not the cheaper pierced method which results in smaller irregular holes (actual tears that close up over time restricting airflow and worse cause the garment to come apart during stress). Vanson punches rounder more uniform holes so more air is channeled and more important does not compromise the strength and original integrity of the leather.

Ankle flex - our last post mentioned ankle flexibility compromised in lace-up boots especially when cinched properly tight. We're talking here about ability to shift readily up and down. Quality non-lace boots provide that without allowing lateral flexing (side to side) motion which you don't want and can be injurious. Steel toes - not required or recommended. The function of steel toes are to protect against the vertical dropping of weight and impact force. In a motorcycle mishap there can be much in the way of twisting and torsional forces which can dislodge the steel causing more harm than good. This is even more likely when steel toes are utilized in an otherwise cheaply made boot. Better to go with a harder heavier leather at the toe than this. Trophy Mike

Red Wing has steadily gone downhill the past few years. Starting with their "motorcycle" line which was finally produced to compete with Harley Davidson boots, not exactly a high standard to begin with. Made in USA or Hanoi doesn't really make a difference here. The boots are lightweight mass market junk put into the marketplace for a quick buck. A fact confirmed during lunch with one of their sales reps. Sadly Red Wing was a legitimate brand years ago. Last remnants of that period can be found within their regular work line which contains some models that are more stout and roadworthy. Another tip: If possible it's best to avoid laceups since they restrict ankle movement. A quality non-lace modern boot, even a traditional style, should stay on your feet and provide flexibility where you need it. "If you want clean oats pay a fair price. If you want oats that have already been through the horse, pay less." Trophy Mike

Why not cut out the middleman altogether and order directly from Beijing. Trophy Mike

People with whom we only share the same transportation choice feel the need to mutually acknowledge each other like they're at a high school reunion. It used to be the only reason for an errant hand gesture was the warning of a dead skunk or worse. Like the last scene in Easy Rider when Dennis Hopper gets blown away for flipping off the redneck in the pick-up. A Wave gone wrong. But now the Wavers come from all walks. The weekend warrior who daylights as your dentist. The older couple celebrating they still have the magic. All cruising toward us with dire need for validation. Okay, we admit it. We see you. We're happy for you. Just keep your hands on the bars and look where you're going. And if you feel the urge to wave at someone save it for the next redneck in a pick-up. And let's hope for the best. Trophy Mike

A harrowing story JimBob. Brings up an old biker adage that actually goes back to the pre-dawn history of man. BIG HAS THE RIGHT OF WAY. In those days if a mastodon or saber toothed tiger cut you off the best policy was to let it go. At least 'til you got back to the cave. Just one question. What is the significance of mentioning the ethnicity of your adversary? Just a thought while I bite into my burrito. Trophy Mike