Yes, we get it. We completely sympathise. Christmas has rolled into town, clad in kitsch clothing, in a chorus of carols and cheese, and you’re not quite ready yet. Those over prepared family members have already got their decorations polished, gleaming and in position and their Amazon wishlists primed.
All well and good and in many ways welcome; one less thing to think about at this stressful time of year and all that. But what to buy for that cool cousin? The brooding one who stands in the corner at parties exuding distant sophistication. He gives nothing away. He’s way too rock’n’roll to ask for gifts, but the clues are there. The permanent leather jacket, the chaffed knuckles and windswept locks, the oil marks on his jeans….
When it comes to gift buying for motorcyclists, useful, welcome items are abundant. No matter what your budget, there’s something out there for everyone – from grand gestures to thoughtful stocking fillers and everything in between. So, with that in mind, here are 10 IDEAL Christmas gift ideas for motorbike enthusiasts.
Helmet Camera
Helmet cameras have become increasingly popular recently; people love to have a look at their ride and review all they’ve seen seen – or rather, missed, due to the speeds they reach. It is also a handy tool should you be involved in an accident; we’ve all seen the footage of arguments and such on the news, all caught on these types of camera as evidence.
If you want to splash the cash, then you can’t go wrong with with a decent helmet camera with a few add on accessories. GoPro are the market leaders here, so as a starting point, check out their range.
Motorcycle Tools
Breakdowns happen and motorbike enthusiasts really pride themselves on that D.I.Y ethos; never are they happier than with a spanner in mind and a heavy tune on the radio. You can be as generous or miserly as you wish with tools; go for an air compressor and air tools or some feeler gauges that check the valve clearances, or a pocket-sized pressure gauge for their tyres, for instance.
Bike Locks
Motorcycle security is important and sadly responsibilities can sometimes be easily forgotten in all that ‘nothing but the open road’ talk. Professionally designed locks come in all different shapes and sizes, from disc brake versions to ones that fit around anchors. A little extra security – as well as peace of mind – goes a long way, making this a sensible, practical gift.
SatNav
Motorcyclists all like to think they have a natural affinity with the road and an intuition that renders SatNav a device for novices. But whether you’re navigating the daily commute or heading to the dealership to ogle those new Indian motorcycles for sale, pulling over to constantly check your phone or ask for directions isn’t a good look, and we’re sure the subtle hint of this gift won’t hurt their pride too much.
Visor Replacements
Motorcyclists have more important things on the brain than their visors and as such, never get round to replacing them. It’s something that’s with you on every ride though, so should be given some attention. A new visor can make the whole helmet feel new, so don’t neglect it if you’re stuck on what to buy.
Clothes
You can’t go wrong with motorcycle clothing, from jackets and trousers to shoes and helmets. It’s having a moment in the sun right now too, making for a practical, fashionable present. Riders are always in need of gloves – both a summer and winter pair – and are always misplacing them, so a new set certainly wouldn’t hurt. Winter gloves can get wet with the weather so it is good to have a spare.
Lubricants And Spray
A toolkit for a motorcycle isn’t complete without a range of lubricants or sprays owing to how much oil, grease, and formulas one needs on the road. Chain lube, copper grease, air filter, brake fluid or motorcycle polish are all great ideas.
A Key Ring
Not the most expensive gift, we know, but actually one which can be thoughtful, personal and unique, especially if you get it personalised or it represents something of meaning to the receiver. A stocking item sure, but certainly not a filler.
Bluetooth Intercom Set
If someone you know is touring around the countryside or city with a partner in crime, then get them one of these. An intercom set can make your rides enjoyable and safer, enabling communication between bikes or simply chat with your pillion passenger behind you. Because it’s Bluetooth you can also use it to play music from your phone, too. All together now; born to be wiiiilllllld.
Noise Cancellation and Hearing Protection
The strong gusts of wind as you approach maximum speed. The roar of the exhaust as you speed away from the lights. The beeping of the horn in anger or merriment. Motorbiking can be a noisy business. NoNoise New Generation Ear Plugs are a fine choice for those concerned about hearing loss. Which, let’s face it, we should all be…