All images courtesy of the manufacturers
Gear Up
The motorcycling equipment you need to make the most of your trip.
NEXX HELMETS
Portuguese company Nexx has been making premium motorcycle helmets since 2001; thanks to a partnership with Rev’It, the lids are more easily available and accessible in the United States. The Nexx X-Wed 2 Hill End features a lightweight yet adaptable design that can be configured for dual sport, dirt, or street use by easily swapping out parts. To further increase its versatility, customizable padding is included; and it also has a built-in sun shield that can be flipped down with a switch— convenient for varying weather conditions. From $480; nexx-helmets.com
REV’IT!
Created specifically for adventure riding by the British motorcycle gear company, the Rev’It Sand 3 jacket ($500), trousers ($360), and gloves ($110) provide excellent rider protection and ventilation in warmer climates, but with removable, three-layer waterproof and insulated liners for cold or wet climates. That versatility is perfect for summer touring in New Zealand, as it can be hot and sunny, then cold and rainy while crossing mountain passes. revitsport.com
Former design director at The North Face Kevin Murray created Velomacchi to craft gear made specifically for rugged and high-speed travel on motorcycles. Every feature and detail on the Velomacchi Speedway 40L Backpack ($300) and 50L Hybrid Duffel ($280) has been carefully considered; the result is a set of stylish bags that will keep your stuff dry in a downpour and protected if you go down in a fall. The selfarticulating, quick-release Speedway suspension system keeps the weight secure and perfectly distributed whether wearing a T-shirt or full adventure jacket. velomacchi.com
The key to a great night’s sleep outside has everything to do with the gear you use. The Big Agnes Copper Spur Platinum 2 Tent ($600), Pluton UL 40˚ Sleeping Bag ($350), and Insulated Axl Air Sleeping Pad ($180) together weigh just over 4 pounds; you’ll be hard-pressed to find a lighter, more compact, and better-designed kit, especially when space comes at a premium on a motorcycle trip. bigagnes.com
The Honda Africa Twin has been reintroduced after a 13-year hiatus and is arguably one of the most exciting adventure bikes available. With a 998 cc engine producing 94 hp, nearly 9 inches of suspension in both the front and rear, and a protective windscreen, the motorcycle is equally adept at tackling highway miles and backroads, and it’s a comfortable ride. From $13,600; powersports.honda.com
This waterproof adventure touring boot was designed to excel and protect in the most rugged conditions. The Alpinestars Toucan GTX features an innovative, flexible ankle protection system that provides all-day comfort and doesn’t hinder shifting or brake usage. Its two-buckle closure system makes the shoes easy to pull off after a long day of riding. $500; alpinestars.com
The simplified time indicator on the Favre-Leuba Harpoon dive watch uses a single hand and accompanying dial to display minutes and hours. While the time readout takes some getting used to, it makes total sense once you do—allowing you to focus on the dedicated task at hand. The automatic FL301 movement, based on the Sellita SW200 caliber, ensures that it keeps running as long as you do. $4,750; favre-leuba.com
Few jackets that look this good have the technical credence to protect you from the elements in a storm. Though not fully waterproof like a Gore-Tex jacket, the AETHER Pinnacle Jacket 2.0 will keep you dry in anything short of a rain torrent. Made from a lined, stretchy, three-layer softshell blend, the jacket moves like you do without giving the appearance that you just stepped off a Winter Olympics podium. $450; aetherapparel.com
