Frogg Toggs Tekk Toad Rainsuit…now that’s just too many repeated consonants!  Okay, if the suit works, I’ll put up with the repetition.  The Tekk rainsuit has most of what a good motorcycle-oriented rainsuit should.

It has a parka length jacket design with an extended tail for the crouched riding position.  It has a tuck away hood which is a good feature.  You don’t want a drag-strip style parachute out back while you’re riding, but you may want that hood when you’re stopped.  There is a good measure of reflective piping for the typical low visibility of the conditions in which the suit would be worn. 

In addition to the waterproof material that a rain suit is made of, seam and closure sealing are vital.  The Tekk has fully taped seams and a “rain gutter” storm strap over the front zipper. 

The suit is cut large for fitment over riding clothes.  Entry into the pants is eased by large 16 inch leg zippers.  There are also zippered pocket with flaps.

Though not constructed of a substantially breathable material, I see the Frogg Toggs Tekk Toad Rainsuit as a solid foul-weather suit.  The $70 retail seems reasonable for the overall quality of the package.

I have come across a video that is simply too amazing not to share with the readers of AAB.  Now, I consider myself a pretty accomplished trail rider – after all, I’ve been doing it for over 3 decades. However, there are things in this trail ride that made me pucker just watching my computer screen.

Let me set the scene – we have a single-track trail that is much more suitable for mountain goats than people. Hell, I think some mountain goats would think twice. Anyway, what you’ll see is two amazing trail riders doing the insane. From what I can tell, the riders are German. One seems to be on a KTM and the other may be on a Honda XR. 

I was so intrigued that I did a little research on the region. Ligurische Grenzkammstrasse contains a system of roads and trails along the Italian/French border. The system was carved primarily for the World Wars, so maintenance has been sporadic since the 1940s. It is now a popular area for extreme enduro riders and mountain bikers. Here is a little map of the area:

Well, enough with the history and geography lesson. Take a look at the 6 minute ride through the lens of a helmet mounted camera. It will be worth your time.

Chains and sprockets are expensive and exposed, so chain lubrication is a vital part of your overall motorcycle maintenance regime.  In fact, other than checking tire pressure, it may be a motorcyclist’s most frequent chore.  I lube my motorcycle chains every 300 – 500 miles.

Finding a chain lube that meets your needs can be a daunting task. Thin, oily lubes can fly off, leaving your bike’s wheel, swing arm, and engine case messy.  Chain wax stays put, but can be hard to apply and can build up on the chain.

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In a time when premium dirt boots go for over $500, it’s refreshing to find adult boots that retail for around $100.  However, logic would tell you that there must be a compromise somewhere for that price point to be feasible for a manufacturer.

The Answer Fazer Boots are offered at that lower price point.  So where’s the compromise?  The boots are constructed of full cowhide.  There is a suede heat-shield to protect from those hot pipes.  There is a respectable dose of interior padding for added comfort.  No compromise yet.

Protection comes in the form of plastic (poly) shields at the shin and calf.  The sole is substantial and rugged. Overall, the boots seems to be of a good design.  One quibble I have with the boot shape is the tall toe box.  Like many boots, the Fazer needs a lower front profile for ease of shifting.

So where is the compromise in these budget boots?  Well, the plastic buckles may be the issue.  The buckle design is nice, with a 2-stage function.  However, plastic buckles traditionally don’t hold up well to the ravages of the desert, the woods, or the track. 

Overall though, the Answer Fazer Boots are a nice entry level dirt offering.  The boots come in black and are available in sizes 7 – 14.

You may have read in a recent article here on the AAB site that Arai once again is tops in customer satisfaction.  There is, of course, good reason for this.  Arai’s quality control, attention to detail, and innovation are second to none.

The new Arai XD-3 Helmet is yet another superior offering from the Japanese helmet company.  The XD-3 is a convertible design that targets the dual-sport and adventure touring markets.  Obviously, riders in these demographics need a helmet that is suitable for road, fast off road, and technical trail duty.  The XD-3 converts for use in a wide range of conditions.

For road duty, where a visor would act as an air scoop creating excessive helmet lift, the XD-3 can be worn with the shield only.  Thus, in essence, it’s a road helmet.  For varied conditions, the helmet can be worn with the visor and the shield.  For pure off-road duty the XD-3 can be worn with the visor and goggles, making it a full dirt-bike helmet.

In addition to this extreme versatility, the XD-3 offers extreme ventilation.  It features a high-flow peak, which channels air directly into the front vents.  Speaking of vents, the XD-3 incorporates four top intake vents and two exhaust vents.   The chin bar also offers both intake and exhaust venting.

Can there be a downside to such a refined and versatile helmet?  Well the Arai XD-3 retails for about $700.  I have bought several motorcycles for less than that.  However, like the old motorcycling adage states, “you can’t put a price tag on your head.”