Gear Guides

Ordinary phone mounts won’t survive more than a few minutes of gnarly riding down the trails.

Frontaer has researched the best options for us offroad enthusiasts that expect our phones to stay cradled through the rough stuff.

1. RAM Mounts

RAM Mounts is a Seattle, Washington company and a leading manufacturer of rugged phone mounts.

Their most popular item for Dirt Bikes is the RAM X-Grip cradle, a device that supports phones in cases and sleeves.

It has a patented spring-loaded X-design for secure holding power and a U-bolt base that accommodates rails from .5 inches to 1.25 inches in diameter. 

The mount has marine-grade aluminum and stainless steel components, giving it excellent strength and durability. 

The X-Grip also has a safety tether to provide extra security for phones, so if you hit a large bump or pothole and the phone detaches from the cradle it will not go flying.

The ball and socket form allows for adjustments and versatile placement. It is also compatible with most phones and does not require a specific case. 

2. TACKFORM

Tackform is a Chicago-based phone mount manufacturer with a large selection of products. Their products have a durable all-metal construction made with 6061 aluminum.

TACKFORM offers a lifetime warranty and a 100 percent money-back guarantee for all their products.

Tackform phone mounts are attachable and detachable with a single hand and have a lower-profile ball and socket connection that allows for a good range of motion. Like the X-Grip, they are compatible with all phones. 

They also sell a silicone tether for additional security.

3. ROKFORM

ROKFORM is an Irvine, California-based company that manufactures a universal-fit device for all handlebars between ⅞ of an inch and 1.25 inches in diameter.

Their phone mount is made with 6061 T-6 aircraft-grade aluminum and stainless steel, allowing excellent strength and durability.

The ROKFORM handlebar phone mount attaches to the handlebar with a clamp. It is adjustable up and down and side-to-side. ROKFORM sells a phone case that attaches to the mount with a simple twist-and-lock maneuver. 

The handlebar phone mount has a sterling 4.6 average from 1,286 ratings on Amazon.

4. Lamicall

Lamicall, a play on the words “let me call,” is a Portland, Oregon company that manufactures all types of mounts.

Their best-selling bike phone mount, the handlebar cell phone clamp, offers universal compatibility, 360-degree rotation, and a solid form with a built-in steel needle.

The product has four silicone pads that protect the phone from vibrations and scratches. You can adjust the device to show your phone vertically and horizontally and attach and detach it from the mount with one hand.

It is another popular seller on Amazon with a 4.6 rating from 28,000 reviews. 

5. ROAM Bike Phone Mount

With nearly 52,000 ratings on Amazon, and 4.4 stars overall, it is one of the most popular phone mounts for dirt bikes. Currently $13.59, it is also one of the more affordable bike mounts. 

Like RAM Mounts, the ROAM Bike Phone Mount is a universal fit device, so there is no hassle in matching it to a particular phone.

The device is adjustable to fit handlebars from ⅞ inch to 1.25 inches in diameter. It is a plastic construction, so it is not quite as strong or durable as competitor brands. 

Once you attach the device to the handlebars, a silicon net extends over the phone with six points of contact to further secure it in place. The mount has 360 degrees rotation so you can adjust it to any angle. 

ROAM Bike Phone Mount is a solid bargain option despite its plastic construction.

6. Quad Lock

Quad Lock is an Australian company whose founders launched it on Kickstarter in 2011. Their product has a dual-stage locking mechanism without extra lanyards, straps, bands, or magnets.

They advertise that it is easy to attach and detach with one hand using a simple twist and lock motion. 

The device consists of a mount and phone case. The mount attaches to the handlebars or fork stem and the phone case attaches to the mount. 

Quad Lock manufactures phone-specific designs so you will need to find the case that pairs with your smartphone. They do offer a universal adaptor that works with all Quad Lock mounts. 

7. CAW.CAR

This is another budget-friendly option for those looking for a solid mount that will not break the bank. Amazon sells it for $18.95, and it has a 4.4 rating from nearly 3,800 reviews.

CAW.CAR mounts are a universal fit for all phones. They have metal clips and silicone belt grips to secure the phone and absorb shock. The grip is adjustable and has 350- degree rotation. 

8. ILM Motorcycle Phone Mount

ILM is a La Mesa, California company specializing in motorcycle gear and accessories. They designed their motorcycle phone mount for power sports, so it is a good fit for dirt bikes.

The mount is premium aluminum and compatible with all phones. The aluminum mount fits handlebars from .75 inches to 1.75 inches and has 360 degrees rotation.

Need to keep yourself on the trail? Getting grip in the corners and that steep hill climbs in wet conditions? Then you’re in the right place.

We have looked at various aftermarket adventure and dual sport tires on the market to upgrade from your stock tires. And in 2022, these are the best adventure motorcycle tires:

1. Dunlop American Elite 

The Dunlop American Elite is the go-to tire when you want to push the limits on performance. With over 28 options, it is the only motorcycle tire for Harley-Davidson made, designed, and tested in the U.S.A.

For the aggressive rider, it has been tested in various environments and surface conditions plus optimized to work well over a lifetime.

As a result, you can fulfill your need for speed and get the best of both worlds in one tire while looking good on your Harley.

Customers love that it has superior tracking in corners on wet roads, and you do not have to check the air pressure as often in comparison to other brands.

While the price point is slightly higher than some competitor tire options, it’s the best design for a cruiser motorcycle. Plus, it is American made so you can trust the quality of the materials.

2. Kenda KM1 Sport Touring Motorcycle Tire Set 

Best in value with state-of-the-art construction best describes the Kenda KM1 tire set. Features like advanced rubber compound, apex geometry for perfect balance, and excellent wet grip make this sport-style tire set the ultimate choice in adverse conditions. 

These tire treads provide more depth than many other tires, and the shape boasts excellent high-speed stability and fast turn-in.

The long-wearing compound ensures you will get more miles without sacrificing performance. It is compatible with a wide variety of popular motorcycle tire sizes. 

Kenda tires win “best value” because they can perform better than lesser-known tire brands in a similarly affordable price range with acceptable wear characteristics. However, they don’t beat some of the competitors on this list like Continental, Michelin, or Dunlop. 

Either way, this style works for those who can’t wait to hit the curves or new riders who might not be ready to push the limits.   

3. Metzler

If you’re looking for one of the most respected adventure motorcycle tires, then this is it. Metzeler offers a wide range of adventure motorcycle tires for off-road adventures and excursions. Since 1892, this German manufacturer has been at the forefront of technical development. 

According to Metzler, you won’t compromise on comfort, safety, and performance when it comes to high mileage and impeccable grip on wet and dry surfaces. These tires are for motorcyclist who want a high level of sport-touring performance on the pavement. 

Customers give these tires a high rating because they are balanced and smooth. In addition, they have excellent traction for stopping and leaning through turns. 

If you are looking for your first adventure motorcycle, this may be the perfect option for you.  

4. Bridgestone Adventurecross AX41

Bridgestone offers a wide range of tires, including a line dedicated to big adventure bikes that perform well on and off the road. As the world’s largest tire and rubber manufacturer, these bike tires are optimized for performance.

According to the company, features include:

• Shorter braking distances on wet road surfaces
• Enhanced cornering grip for a confident ride, even in the rain
• Performance in wet conditions and stability in dry conditions
• Excellent mileage paired with high performance

Adventure enthusiasts unite! Whether going off the grid, cruising the freeway, or heading across the country, Bridgestone motorcycle tires can handle the weight and horsepower of various bike brands with maximum traction and mileage. 

Reviewers appreciate how the tires handle riding on wet pavements, twisting on gravel farm roads, and outstanding traction in the curves. Although motorcycle tires eventually wear out, Bridgestone tires last longer over time with top-tier performance.

Bridgestone is committed to its role as a trustworthy manufacturer in the tire industry. Besides the adventure line, you will find tires for racing, scooting, or any style of motorcycle riding you do. 

5. Michelin Anakee Adventure Tires

Bringing confidence to any adventure, the Michelin Anakee tires are the most recent addition to the brand’s lineup. It fills the void between the Michelin Anakee III and Michelin Anakee Wild tires. It’s definitely one of the better adventure motorcycle tires on the market.

The Michelin Anakeen is the right tire for those who like a little off-road adventure since it’s prepared for being used in this kind of terrain 20% of the time. 

It will not fail you on wet pavement due to its tread compounds made of silica. And the new Bridge Block Technology and 2CT+ Technolgy introduced by Michelin guarantees extreme stability.

Customers are impressed with the grip on concrete, dirt, and gravel. This 80/20 tire is tough enough to handle some off-road riding, depending on your experience, but they grip like glue on wet and dry roads. 

Overall, the tire performance is impressive, giving you the confidence to take on any adventure.

The Anakee is available in multiple sizes to suit big adventure-touring and dual-sport bikes. If you want to ride on the wild side, go with the Michelin Anakee tires.

Adventure motorcycle pants are significantly different than those for dirt bikes. Not only do they cost more, but they’re significantly more durable and designed to last years.

That’s assuming you spend up on quality! We’ve rounded up the best trousers for adventure motorcycling below.

1. KLIM Dakar in The Boot Motorcycle Pants

KLIM makes these motorcycle trousers with abrasion-resistant Cordura fabric on the knees and seat for hard wear. The extra material and added goat leather inside the knees resist wearing.

The designers included breathable material, putting panels in several areas that tend to overheat. A silicone waistband helps the pants stay secure and prevents slippage.

KLIM’s designers waterproofed the pants with DWR treatment to keep riders dry. They placed the pockets thoughtfully for maximum convenience.

2. Alpinestars Men’s 3325918-1100 Pant

The second entry on this list are these sturdy motorcycle adventure pants that balance comfort and attention to detail. They include accordion zones to keep the knees flexible.

Its high-waisted design provides comfort and better coverage when combined with a motorcycle jacket. Unfortunately, the pants lack knee and hip padding.

When purchased one size larger, riders can layer these trousers with other pants. However, the slim fit might not suit some body types.

3. Scorpion EXO Yosemite Men’s Motorcycle Pants

Another entry in this list is Scorpion’s Yosemite line with durable 500 Denier nylon material. In the abrasion zones like the seat and knees, the manufacturer uses 1680 Denier fabric.

The trousers have well-made zipper venting systems to keep riders cool on the road. They also sport roomy cargo pockets on the thighs.

While the knees have Sas-Tec CE armor, the hips come with only PE foam. Nevertheless, the company advertises the ability to upgrade hip armor to the Sas-Tec variety.

The brand reportedly fits slimmer riders better, and the model runs small compared to other Scorpion products. These pants cost more than some others, but they are durable.

4. HWK Motorcycle Pants for Men 

These HWK motorcycle adventure trousers are some of the most durable adventure motorcycle trousers on the market. It comes in quality 600 Denier Cordura fabric. The hard-wearing knees and hips have padded armor to protect against skids and falls.

The trousers have wind- and waterproof lining, incorporating a specialized fabric with membrane and micro-mesh combined. They will keep the rider dry in all types of weather.

While these trousers do not carry CE certification, they hold up well under extreme conditions and are an excellent value for the price. HWK is an up-and-coming small business.

5. Wicked Stock Men’s WaterProof Motorcycle Protective Pants 

With certified CE-1 hip and knee armor, these Wicked Stock trousers are an excellent choice for riders who do not want to wear two layers on the road. For colder weather, riders could layer with running tights.

These trousers help protect riders with abrasion-resistant fabric. Adjustable knee armor means that riders of different heights can comfortably wear these trousers.

The waterproof seams will not leak even in heavy rain. What’s more, the pants have handy ankle zippers to fit over the bulkiest motorcycle boots. 

Buyers should know that the Wicked Stock trousers have a unique sizing system. So, to get the right fit, buyers must measure accurately and consult the size chart.

6. CTBQiTom Men’s Motorcycle Pants

For adventure riders looking for blue jeans styling in motorcycle pants, CTBQiTom combines the best of both worlds. In doing so, the company balances good-looking clothing with solid protection.

These trousers boast a unique folding design on the back of the waist and at the knee, making it easier to sit comfortably. Moreover, waterproof Oxford cloth keeps out moisture and withstands dirt.

Fully CE-1 certified hip and knee pads are removable for cleaning. Its certified protection means that bikers can ride more confidently.

7. DALLX Motorcycle Waterproof Pants for Men 

These adventure trousers represent a value choice. Constructed from 600 Denier Cordura, they have armored hips and knees. However, the padded armor is not fully CE-certified.

The designers added many thoughtful touches to these motorcycle pants. For instance, the trousers zip high enough to allow for bulky boots.

Riders can also find a zipper on the back that connects the jacket and pants. Velcro allows for fine adjustments at the waist, making long rides safer and more comfortable.

8. Joe Rocket Alter Ego 2.0 Men’s Textile Pants

These motorcycle pants have a complete, removable waterproof lining and adjustable CE-certified knee armor. The pants include a unique melt-resistant fabric on the calf and leg to reduce the chance of scorch marks and burns from hot metal.

Joe Rocket takes ventilation seriously and has introduced a FreeAir mesh panel. This panel has a cover for flexible use in different weather conditions.

The pants zip open far enough that riders can remove them without taking their boots off. That feature makes stops easier.

Please be aware that these pants lack hip padding. Even missing this feature, the pants are comfortable and wear well.

Dreaming of exploring faraway places on your adventure motorcycle? You’re not alone.

We’ve rounded up some of the best books and stories from behind the handlebars. Be warned – you might just want to give it all up and heading out there after reading any one of these excellent titles!

1. 10 years on 2 wheels

One of the best adventure motorcycle books is 10 years on 2 wheels. It’s a small 200-page book full of beautiful glossy pictures and nine maps. It was recently revised to incorporate journeys through Siberia, China, and Mongolia.

Photographer Helge Pederson has included many of his best travel-related shots.

Helge Pederson talks about the philosophy he conjured during 250,000 miles on his motorcycle across 77 countries. His 10-year-long journey drew from his desire to explore and journey the world. 

His wanderlust first sprouted when he was an exchange student and grew curious about the other exchange students’ homes and cultures. 

2. Tracking Marco Polo

In this exciting motorcycle adventure, author Tim Severin retraces the path of Marco Polo en route to China. Severin, along with three friends, retraced Marco Polo’s famous route in two donated BSA 650s with sidecars.

Their adventure became known as the Marco Polo Route Project. A cameraman even journeyed with them to document their story.

Tim Severin is an outstanding storyteller, so it may be hard to put this book down!

3. One Man Caravan

One Man Caravan covers Robert Edison’s story that regarded him as the first round-the-world solo motorcyclist adventurer. In 1932 Robert Edison embarked on his journey and traveled the lands of the colonial Middle East, London, Syria, and many more.

Times have vastly changed since his journey began, and our world is far different than what he experienced during his adventure. Robert crossed paths with Nazi Germany and many countries that no longer exist in our modern world.

He speaks of his experience in Japan in 1937 and the neighborhood motorcycle riders. They celebrated the friendship between the US and Japan and welcomed him with open arms.

4. Jupiter’s Travels

In this entertaining autobiography, Ted Simon retells his travels worldwide on his motorcycle. 

In the early ’70s, Simon became bored of his journalism life and sought the thrill of the road. Even though he didn’t have a motorcycle license (and failed his first attempt), Simon stuck with his dream of driving around the world on a motorcycle.

Using his journalism ties, Simon got a British newspaper to sponsor his trip and persuaded Triumph to give him a 500ccT100. 

This book recounts his wild journey, making it one of the most entertaining motorcycle adventure books.  

5. Way to Go

Geoff Hill released his first travel book encompassing two fantastic motorcycle journeys on a Harley Davidson. The first was from Belfast to Delhi, and the second was from Chicago to Los Angeles. 

One of the best adventure motorcycle books, this one is rich with funny remarks and well-crafted one-liners. The book also dives a bit into the complexities of different cultures in a light-hearted way. 

His eccentric outlook on life and sense of humor combine uniquely in the book to discuss topics from adventure to insights into different cultures.

6. Uneasy Rider

While his life was going downhill, Mike Carter decided to shake things up by embarking on a six-month-long journey with a motorcycle. Mike Carter was a cautious journalist and began planning this journey during a drunken night. 

The start appeared foolish, as he had an 18-month ban from driving under the influence. After adjusting his mortgage, Mike Carter begins his journey that forever changed his life.

With no destination, Mike traveled a total of 20,000 miles and has seen numerous corners of Europe. 

He explored the Mediterranean coast, the Iraqi border, and the Portuguese Atlantic.

Mike’s haphazard journey helped him heal from his divorce and rediscover himself.

The book is full of self-deprecating humor that is bound to get a laugh. 

7. Two Fingers on the Jugular: A Motorcycle Journey Across Russia

Lawrence Bransby sets off on a journey alone only with an old DR350. The treacherous expedition spans the lawless lands with real threats and regions with a high death count.

He has traveled in these areas alone in the remote regions of the Russian far east, the infamous road of bones. Where others chose to go in large numbers and fancy motorcycles, Lawrence undertook his adventure alone with an old motorcycle.

The book covers all his encounters as he travels 20,000 miles in just three months, with enough description to make you feel as if you were alongside him.

8. Long Way Round

Another best adventure motorcycle book is Long Way Round. Two famous friends, Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman discuss their journey through Europe, spanning Russia, Ukraine, and Mongolia. 

Their book contains random encounters, such as being chased by paparazzi in Kazakhstan or offered odd dishes by Mongolian nomads.

9. Lois on the Loose

Lois Pryce was an upcoming star on the BBC, but she had another side unknown to her co-workers. She was an avid motorcyclist with an unquenchable desire to explore and travel.

Driven by her urge for adventure, Lois Pryce traveled to the edges of Alaska and South America. She accumulated more than 20,000 miles through her mesmerizing journey.

Need to strap down your dirt bike on your trailer, in your van or on your rear rack? We’ve got you covered.

Typical ratchet straps for load carrying aren’t ideal. Instead – you should opt for purpose-built tie down straps that can handle the shifting load of a dirt bike. Remember – that long suspension causes some movement!

Here are the best options for 2022:

1. JCHL Soft Loop Tie Down Straps

JCHL offers the best dirt bike tie down straps because of their simplicity. These bright blue, orange or yellow loops come in an eight-pack, so you have more than enough for your bike. 

Each end of the strap has a loop so you can twist it around your handlebars and pull it back through for maximum hold. The straps can keep up to 1,800 pounds in place.

Since there are no hooks, you don’t have to worry about scratching your finish. Even if you use an additional strap that has a hook, it’ll go through the loop instead of directly on your bike.

Pros

• Bright colors ensure you can always find them
• No hooks to scratch your bike’s finish

Cons

• Don’t feel sturdy enough for heavy loads

2. FineGood Soft Loop Tie Down Straps

FineGood’s straps can handle over 1,500 pounds, so your dirty bike will stay in place during transport. Since they’re soft straps, you don’t have to worry about them scratching your bike.

The loops pull through each other to create a slipknot and hold your gear in place. They’re 11.6 inches long, so you might loop several together to restrain your bike.

Pros

• No hooks are necessary so that you won’t scratch the bike
• Get ten straps at an affordable price

Cons

• Straps are a thin material

3. Progrip Powersports Soft Loop Tie Down Straps

The Progrip straps are a step above the basic soft straps reviewed above. They’re 5.5 feet long so you can adjust them to the exact length necessary for your bike and vehicle.

The button on the strap should provide an easy release, but it can stick and make it tough to unload your bike. However, that can be a good thing since it ensures complete restraint.

Pros

• Include sturdy hooks for more secure transport
• Comes in a variety of colors

Cons

• Difficult to release

4. Aerofast Ratchet Tie Down Straps

The Aerofast straps are a heavy-duty option that makes it easy to load and unload your dirt bike quickly. The thick webbing can restrain up to 3,000 pounds.

Your hand fits perfectly on the rubber handle, so you can quickly shorten the strap for a snug fit. Though expensive, the straps are sure to keep your bike in place, even on the rockiest terrain.

Pros

• Rubber handle makes it easy to adjust the length
• Swivel carabiner prevents the strap from twisting

Cons

• Expensive option for only two straps

5. Extreme Max Utility Tie-Down Strap

Extreme Max offers straps in different widths. The one-inch straps can handle 1,00 pounds, the 1.25-inch straps hold 1,300 pounds, and the 1.5-inch option takes 2,000 pounds.

You get a pair of straps per order. The orange section wraps around the handlebars and hooks back to the black. Attach the bottom clip to your vehicle and ratchet it to the ideal length.

Pros

• Come in three different strap widths
• Include a two-year warranty

Cons

• Ratchet is clunky and hard to use

6. Thenewallhere Heavy Duty Ratchet Tie Down Straps

The strap set from Thenewallhere offers everything you need to rig your dirt bike for transport. You can make the straps as short as one foot or as long as 15 feet.

You get four straps, four ratchet ends, and eight hooks. With these pieces, you can customize your setup. The one-inch wide straps are just enough to hold your bike without twisting.

Pros

• Option to use the hooks or just soft straps
• Straps have durable webbing

Cons

• Can be difficult to thread the straps into the ratchet

7. RHINO USA Ratchet Tie Down Straps

RHINO USA’s set of tie down straps gives you endless options for securing your bike. You can set the four ratchet straps as one foot or 15 feet long.

The soft loops have the same length, so you can mix and match straps for the best fit. They come with a storage bag so you can keep them within easy reach.

Pros

• Come in six different colors
• Includes a water-resistant bag for storage

Cons

• Colored straps leech dye over time

8. P1Tools Dirt Bike Tie Down Strap Rings

Once you choose the best dirt bike tie down straps, you still want to protect your bike. The P1Tools rings are black stainless steel so that they won’t stand out from your bike’s design.

Strap rings keep the metal hooks from scratching your handlebars and chrome finish. Each ring has a protective coating to prevent scratches on your car or truck’s finish.

Connect the rings to your bike’s bolts, and you’ll have specific holes for threading your strap hooks. The rings are so light that you don’t have to worry about reducing your bike’s speed.

Pros

• Sturdy stainless steel won’t bend
• Only takes a few minutes to install

Cons

• Can cut through rubber coating on rings

Buyers Guide

As mentioned at the beginning of this article, tie down straps aren’t all the same. We generally wouldn’t recommend an ordinary tie down strap used for trucking or load carrying to be used for dirt bikes.

Likewise, your dirt bike straps shouldn’t be used for other purposes. This is because they can stretch over time or might be damaged. They could spoil your weekend plans if you’re not careful!

Above all else, aim to spend up for quality straps. After all, the difference between $25 and $45 isn’t much when you’re protecting your dirt bike which is worth many times that!