The Christmas season is approaching and with it, thoughts turn to buying gifts for loved ones – and there’s no reason why that can’t also include your motorcycle.
There are plenty of pleasing presents you can spoil your two-wheeled steed with. We’re not talking practical accessories such as luggage or performance aids; nor quality consumables such as tyres, chains or brake pads – all of those things you’d buy anyway.
No, we’re talking about the sort of extras that are little luxuries – not for you but for your bike.
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These can include things that help keep your bike your bike clean and in tip-top condition; items that stop it getting damaged in normal day-to-day riding or simply quality stands or supports that keep your bike stable and secure when wrapped up in your garage.
But what sort of motorcycle ‘gifts’ are available, where can you buy them, what do they cost and what do you get for your money? To help you decide, here are some of our favourites.
1. Puig Top Yoke Protector
Description
This is a simple idea that can really improve your bike at a very minimal cost and which is also
This protector is a simple, bespoke, hard-wearing veneer, in this case in replica carbon fibre, which simply adheres to the surface, protecting it.
Pros:
Affordable and easy to apply
Does exactly what it says
Also enhances the look of your bike
Con:
May need replacing periodically
2. Gear Gremlin Gel Tank Pads
Description
A simple, affordable solution to the problem of potentially scratching your bikeu2019s tank with
These mid-priced tank pads not only protect your bike’s tank; they’re made in a soft gel substance for added comfort, come in two attractive designs, have a strong, adhesive backing and have gained good reviews. Yes, you can pay more or choose different materials or designs but for decent all-round performance at a great price, these are hard to beat.
Pros:
Mid-range price
Gel material for extra comfort
Choice of designs
Con:
Not as sturdy as some
3. Oxford Clear Tank Saver
Description
Another simple, affordable way to protect your bikeu2019s tank u2013 but this time intended to
They’re a simple flexible plastic design bespoke to your bike, are by respected British accessories brand Oxford Products and come with a self-adhesive backing, making them easy as pie to fit.
Pros:
Protect your bike’s paint
Easy to fit
Great price
Con:
Can sometimes look grubby over time
4. Oxford Protex Indoor Cover
Description
u2018An indoor bike cover? Why do you need an indoor bike cover?u2019 I hear you ask. Simply so
It’s also made of breathable material to avoid condensation and has an elasticated base with an adjustable belly strap for an ultra-snug fit. In short: your bike will love you for it
Pros:
Brilliant at protecting your bike
Quality construction
Stretch, snug fit
Con:
Stops you easily admiring your bike in the garage
5. Bike It Brake Reservoir Protectors
Description
Another u2018cheapie but a goodieu2019. In the bad old days, of course, sportsbike riders keen to
But today you can get these bespoke bike versions which have the benefit of being both colour-matched and embroidered with the brand of your bike. For a cheap, sporty-looking add-on that can easily be replaced again, there’s not much better.
Pros:
Bargain price
Instant easy fit
Matched to your bike
Con:
Will get manky over time
6. MPW Motorcycle Workshop Mat
Description
Another one of those motorcycle accessories or products that nobody actually needs and arguably
They’re great for both showing off your bike and being a cleaner, more comfortable surface on which to work on your bike and this MPW item comes in a variety of bike-branded designs, in durable polyester with an oil and water-resistant, non-slip synthetic backing and measure 2m x 0.75m.
Pros:
Great for showing off your bike
Pleasing when tinkering
Lots of designs
Con:
A little pricey perhaps?
7. Bike It Aluminium Valve Caps
Description
Motorcycle gifts donu2019t get much simpler, smaller u2013 or cheaper than this. But at the same
For the princely sum of just £2.99 you get a pair in the colour of your choice (please note, the picture is for illustrative purposes only to show all the colours available) while fitting, by definition, takes merely a matter of seconds.
Pros:
Easy to fit
Ridiculously affordable
Choice of colours
Con:
So small, the difference is minor
8. Boudech Heavy-Duty Front And Rear Paddock Stands
Description
Paddock stands are one of motorcyclingu2019s most-pleasing workshop luxuries. They donu2019t
These heavy-duty examples are temptingly priced, well made, come highly recommended and have the added bonus of being a matching pair. Go on; you know your bike deserves them!
Pros:
One of motorcycling’s little luxuries
Well-made and strong
Come as a pair
Con:
You may need to fit bobbins to your bike
9. ACF-50 Anti-Corrosion Lubricant 32oz Spray
Description
It might not seem very gift-like but ACF-50 is a brilliant product that every bike deserves and
This market-leading product is highly rated for its ability to protect, penetrate and lubricate to prevent corrosion. Just spray it on vulnerable areas and let it do its magic. Better still, this example comes in a large size with its own spray applicator. Recommended.
Pros:
Great for protecting your bike
Easy to use
Highly rated
Con:
Can be a little messy if over-applied!