Here at HOT BIKE, we get mega-info on the latest and greatest riding gear sent to us by manufacturers. “Riding Essentials” gives us the opportunity to take a few pages to show you the goods and tell you what we think. This time we’re looking at gear from Harley-Davidson and Wiley X Eyewear. Remember to check back each month, as we will continually mix things up.

No Loop, Swoop, or Pull
Are you tired of laces, can’t tie your laces, or are just plain worried that they could get caught on something while you’re riding? The Starter Switch ladies’ boots from Harley-Davidson offer easy on-and-off access with a double-zip entry, along with a comfortable full-cushion sock liner. These boots have durability criteria covered, with a solid cement construction and rubber outsole. The Starter Switch is available in sizes 5-11, and is also available with a steel toe. Get all the details at www.h-d.com or www.stepintoalegend.com, or by calling (800) 637-7001.

Slippery When Wet
Road conditions on a rainy day are a force to be reckoned with while riding your bike. Beat wet feet with the FXRG-2 boots for men (pictured here) and women from Harley-Davidson. Even being in SoCal where it doesn’t rain much, we can still appreciate the 200-gram Thinsulate insulation with breathable Gore-Tex membrane waterproof lining. Goodyear storm-welt construction and an oil-resistant rubber outsole provide durability and traction. There’s even padding to keep your ankles comfortable and a removable, full-length cushioned footbed. Even from your first glance at these boots, you can tell they mean business. The FXRG-2 boots are available in men’s sizes 7-13 and women’s sizes 5-11. For more information, check out www.h-d.com or www.stepintoalegend.com, or call (800) 637-7001.

Gotta Wear Shades
Wiley X offers eyewear for nearly every imaginable motorcycling need. Featuring four main categories-Climate Control, Changeable, Goggles, and Active-and almost a dozen subcategories under each of those, Wiley X is sure to offer something that will suit your needs, wants, and desires. Sure, we want to look cool, but we foremost want to protect our eyes while we’re out on the road. Road debris, bugs, and whatever else comes your way will have to say hello-and goodbye-to lenses made from shatterproof polycarbonate material. If you’re near- or farsighted, or perhaps have double vision, select the frame you want, provide your prescription, and Wiley X will do the rest. You can find these sunglasses and more by checking out www.wileyx.com, or by calling (800) 776-7842.