Well, as promised here is my latest round of shopping.
1) Rapid Transit Recon 19 Magnetic Tank Bag
Not bad value at $80. Got lots of pockets and features. Has a pouch to store a water bag which might be more convenient than my camel back as I hate wearing backpacks while riding. Also has a built in raincover which is not detachable so I can’t lose it. The phone pocket is a bit tight for my iPhone so I’m not sure if I’ll use it. Also the map pocket is very small so I’ll probably make up handwritten notes as backup to my GPS for longer trips. I thought the backpack feature was a gimmick but I might actually use that. We’ll see.
2) Sidi B2 Gore-Tex Boot
Same boots as I currently have but with a Gore-Tex liner. Quickly discovered on my first ride on the new bike that my feet are no longer protected from the elements. I love these boots so a GoreTex version at a close out price was a no brainer.
3) KTM Hard Equipment Enduro Handguards
These hand guards seem to offer the best combination of fit/finish and price and a lot of folks have installed them on their Versys. Hope between these and new gloves I can avoid putting on my hippo hands.
4) SW-MOTECH Alu-Rack Toprack
Thought long and hard about what type of luggage I want to fit to the Versys. The stock sidecases look gorgeous but would probably run me north of $800. Decided to just buy a rack so I can reuse the top case I already have. Will probably add a waterproof soft bag across the passenger seat for extra luggage for long trips. With that and the tank bag I think that will be enough for my planned 2 week summer trip.
5) REV’IT! Bastion GTX Gloves
My current winter gloves have started leaking and now have a permanent sour smell so it’s time for something new. I’m a big fan of Gore-Tex and don’t mind paying a premium for something I know is going to work. I hope to pick these gloves up tomorrow morning at a local dealer, assuming my credit card doesn’t snap in half with all of this spending!
