Accessorymania

by Charles Fulton
April 2002

Safe and Speedy
Anyone who rides a bike or a scooter should be wearing a helmet. A multitude of helmets are available, in all kinds of styles, colors and sizes. There's sure to be one out there that will suit your needs for both safety and aesthetics.

Once your head is safe within a quality helmet, how about a little speed boost? Look no further than an electric bike conversion kit. These kits allow you to add a power assist to your bike. It makes long distance riding a whole lot easier.

Then, the ever-present need of a place to put one's stuff can be fulfilled with a saddlebag. Not just for motorcycles anymore, today's saddlebags come in several sizes and configurations, perfect for any alternative vehicle.

Helmet De Ville
Lazer Helmets' De Ville open-face helmet is available in three colors, featuring a quick release buckle and detachable, washable interior foam pads.
(800) 321-6621
www.lazerhelmets.com
Suggested Retail Price: $140

Special FX
The AFX FX-4 features a clear-coat finish, as well as the ability to attach your choice of optional UV-treated face shields. Available in six colors.
(877) 686-6477
www.afxhelmets.com
Suggested Retail Price: $70

Mag Power
Bell's Mag 6 helmet features a Kevlar/fiberglass molded shell and one-piece, removable EPS liner. A Lexan shield rounds out the package. Available in four colors.
(714) 570-4620
www.bellhelmets.com
Suggested Retail Price: $141

The Power is On
Electric Transportation Company claims that their ETC Express electric bike conversion kit can attach to any 24"-27" bike in approximately 40 minutes. It is easily removable, with a range of 10 miles at 12 mph.
(888) 808-4382
www.etcbikes.com
Suggested Retail Price: $360

More Power To Ya!
Currie Technologies' U.S. Pro Drive Propulsion System features a range of 18-20 miles "with nominal pedaling" on one 6-8 hour charge. Claimed maximum speed is 16-18 mph.
(800) 268-8596
www.currietech.com
Suggested Retail Price: Starting at $450

One For the Big Boys
Heritage Saddlebag's Fatboy Jumbo features a capacity of 3.53 gallons and includes aluminum interior brackets, stainless steel mounting brackets, neoprene backing and a two-year warranty.
(866) 742-8224
www.heritagesaddlebag.com
Suggested Retail Price: Starting at $699

Bags, American Style
All American Rider's Ameritex X-Large Flap-Over saddlebag measures a generous 16.5" x 6" x 10.5". Made of top grain leather, it features an adjustable center yoke, solid box top lid to protect the payload, and can detach quickly from its Velcro fasteners for safekeeping.
(800) 327-8907
www.allamericanrider.com
Suggested Retail Price: Starting at $126

Charles Fulton is Litewheels' Editorial Assistant.