John BraunPhoenix Wheels Examiner
I'm not a flashy kind of guy. In fact, I shy away from logos on shirts and crests on sweaters. I have no desire in attempting to impress someone else with a brand name. I am, however, interested in quality that works well. Gimmicks and graphics offer no assistance when ascending a steep, sandy hillside on a 550lb motorcycle.
First Gear has created a jacket and pant system that meets all of my criteria.
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One Man’s Impression of the BMW G450X
My latest find that I wanted to share with everyone is the Kriega R25 Rucksack. I bought the backpack last week to replace the messenger bag that I have been using. I commute about 110 miles a day for work and I carry a lot with me, so my messenger bag had become inadequate for my needs. The Kriega R25 is awesome it is designed to fit over your riding jacket and once it is adjusted it doesn't move. This bag is made for riding and it shows.
A few years ago, while still living abroad, a good friend of mine introduced me to the BMW Phase Change under suit. Commuting everyday during a typical UK winter consisted of overcast skies and morning temps in the 30's to 40's and a daytime high of 50°F, at best. Most mornings consisted of wrapping up in 3 or 4 layers under my riding suit before setting off for the commute. Not so convinced by my friend, but with a few pounds burning a hole in my wallet I bought the set.
So we all end up in that situation once and awhile where you have that stubborn bolt that you just cannot get any leverage on it to break it free. It's a hard to get to spot and you just can't get a tool on it. I have found and use the Star Pro and Hex Pro tools, they have the versatility that you need and they have gotten me out of a few sticky situations in the past. I have even taken and put them in a Socket and used them as a swivel head before.
