When it comes to motorcycle jackets, you want something that balances the need to look like you own the road and enough protection to keep you from becoming part of the road. Viking Cycle, a brand based out of California, has been turning heads with their attention to detail and security in their full range of motorcycle clothing for men and women. The best part is the price tag.
Overview of the Bloodaxe Motorcycle Jacket
Out of the box, the Bloodaxe looks awesome and feels awesome. When the jacket first goes on, you’ll notice it’s a bit stiff—but it does loosen up with some wear, as good leather should. The zippers have solid construction, open and close smoothly, and lay well when you’re riding.
The biggest advantage of the Viking Cycle Bloodaxe isn’t the awesome name but the amount of storage. You won’t believe the amount of storage space you have with this jacket. There’s so much, it’s almost ridiculous.
There is a headphone wire system that you can feed into the collar of the jacket, earphone pockets, a media player pocket, cellphone pocket with 3 second access, 2 knife and pen pockets, an eyeglass pocket, a pocket designed to find a 10-inch tablet, extendable keyholder, and another pocket that can fit travel documents and your wallet. The pockets have a unique “no bulge” design, so even if you somehow managed to stuff every single compartment this jacket has, it will still look flat and sleek and not like a bubble jacket. Overall, it sits nice on the body and doesn’t feel stifling.
The sizing does run a little small. Someone around 5 foot, 10 inches, 180 pounds will fall into the M-L range, depending on how much you want to bundle up. If you take out the thermal lining or don’t want to wear a lot of clothing underneath, you might want to size down to prevent the jacket from floating on you.
Specifications
(listed adapted from vikingcycle.com)
- Construction – Drum-dyed soft genuine cowhide leather (milled buffalo), padded shoulders, and Viking cycle level 1 removable “armor” on elbows and spine; two intake vents on the top of the shoulders and exhaust vents in the back
- External Storage – 2 zippered chest pockets, 2 zippered side pockets, and a single sleeve pocket
- Internal Storage – 2 secured zippered pockets and a secret compartment
- Adjustability – waist snaps and sleeve zippers
- Visibility – High viz stripes located on the back and shoulders
Pros
- Sag and wrinkle resistant
- Wind and water resistant
- Abrasion resistant
- A ton of hidden pockets on the internal side of the jacket
- CE marked armor in the back and shoulders – comfortable and stays in place while riding around
- Budget-friendly cost without a lack of quality and safety
- Stylish design
Cons
- Can be hot – the jacket has a thermal lining and is heavy, so it can be oppressive in the summertime even with the vents open. For that reason, it might not be ideal for moving in slower paced traffic;
- CE armor level could be higher.
Warranty Info
Viking Cycle offers a 1 year manufacturer’s warranty on all of their products. This means that any defects or imperfections that you find are covered. The warranty does not cover wear and tear or damages caused from improper care.
This might raise some questions about durability, since some production errors or faults can take a few days or weeks to appear.
If you start to notice something odd going on with the jacket that you didn’t cause, you can contact Viking Cycle at info@vikingcycle.com with the order number and a photo of the defect to get an exchange or refund.
Conclusion
Honestly, for the quality of the jacket, you would expect to pay more for it than you do. The name might be a bit for metal than what this motorcycle jacket offers, but the sleekness of the design, paired with the sound construction and unheard of amount of storage makes it a clear winner. If you’re looking for a balance of style and safety without breaking your bank, I recommend the Viking Bloodaxe motorcycle jacket for your wardrobe.
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How to Choose the Right Motorcycle Jacket
The motorcycle jacket is one of the most iconic artifacts of biker culture, especially in public consciousness. When people picture a motorcyclist, they tend to envision someone clad in a well-made, well-fitted leather jacket.
With the continuous advancement of material sciences, the constant diversification of motorcycles themselves, and the rather varied climates of a global society, there are a plethora of jackets to choose from.
You’re bound to find the jacket that’s ideal for you, but there are a few variables to consider, such as what you find comfortable, the climates you’ll be riding in, and the type of motorcycle you’re going to use.
The Four Motorcycle Jacket Styles
There are basically for style groups, when it comes to these jackets – Cruiser, Racing, Sport/Street and Adventure Touring/Dual Sport. Each of these has its own strengths, making them ideal for a specific riding style. Surprisingly, no single type of material/textile is standard for any given style of jacket either.
- Cruiser – This is the classic motorcycle jacket that most picture – the icon, the stereotype. While most commonly seen in leather, they’re also available in many other styles, with a focus on comfort and aesthetic. These are ideal for casual riders and those that use their motorcycle as transportation going about their daily lives.
- Racing – Racing jackets are distinctive for their tight fit and somewhat “space age” appearance. The tight fit is to prevent wind resistance, and the distinct appearance is due to flex panels designed to allow mobility while providing padding against abrasions from dangerous high-speed offs. They tend to have a narrower collar, and a zipper to fasten to racing pants (preventing ride up).
- Sport/Street – These jackets are a casual modification of racing jackets, taking the slower speeds into account. They’re distinguished by the less prominent flex panels and the looser fit focusing on comfort. Seasonal jackets of this sort also include insulation and ventilation to help keep the rider cool or warm in harsh conditions.
- Adventure/Dual Sport – This is a less common style of jacket, used primarily by those whom go on long rides across varied, often rough climates and terrains. They look like nothing more than a survival jacket imitating a racing jacket, with pockets for gear, layers of insulation and impact padding, and a form-hugging design with an additional fastening around the neck. These are ideal for winter riding, or those long trans-continental adventures.
Important Motorcycle Jacket Factors To Consider
There are important factors to consider, which will determine the material you choose, and the style of jacket most suited to your needs.
- Leather or Textile – The first decision you’ll want to make is if you want leather or textile. Leather has a classic look, and many regard it as quite comfortable. However, its real strength is in its resistance to abrasion. However, for comfort and versatility in multiple climates and weather conditions, textiles tend to outperform it. This all comes down to whether you want comfort in various climates, or wish to focus on the durability of leather.
- Visibility/Reflectivity – While many would argue that subtlety is a sign of good everyday design, a jacket that catches the eye can actually be a major boon to safety. You want people to see you, and be aware of your presence and location on the road!
- Liners and Armor/Padding – If you ride in a temperate area with both hot and cold weather, you may want to look for a jacket with removable or all-weather lining that can help keep you warm in the winter, without the jacket cooking you in the summer. Similarly, even if you’re not a dare devil (and you shouldn’t be!), focusing on padding/armor around the chest, back and shoulders is also important, as these are areas where damage can be the worst if you have a nasty off.
- Fitment – Finally, you want a jacket that fits you well, and comfortably. It can be hard to find one that’s a perfect fit, but many styles of jacket have fitment adjustments on the waist and slides on the sleeves, which provide just the right amount of hug or slack for your personal comfort standards. You don’t want to wear a jacket that’s too tight or constrictive, cutting off circulation. The fatigue from this can lead to serious dangers.
To learn more about the different styles of jackets, which ones suit which styles of riding, and much more about the adventurous world of motorbiking, subscribe to my YouTube channel today!
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The Art of Cornering on a Sportbike
Cornering is an essential skill for sportbike riders, and it requires a combination of physical and mental techniques to be executed effectively. From maintaining control in a lean to anticipating turns and navigating curves, cornering is an art that requires practice, patience, and confidence. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the fundamentals of cornering on a sportbike and provide tips and tricks to help you become a more confident and skilled rider.
Download RunThaCity’s Cornering on a Sportbike CheetSheet
Understanding the Physics of Cornering
The key to effective cornering on a sportbike is understanding the physics behind the maneuver. When you enter a turn, the centrifugal force of the turn pushes the bike away from the center of the turn, and the suspension compresses, causing the bike to lean in the direction of the turn. Maintaining control in a lean requires balancing the force of gravity, which tries to pull the bike down, with the centrifugal force, which tries to push the bike out.
By understanding the physics of cornering, you can gain a better appreciation for the forces acting on your bike and the techniques required to counterbalance these forces. For example, you can use your body weight to shift in the direction of the turn, which helps to balance the forces acting on the bike and maintain stability and control in a lean.
The physics of cornering on a sportbike involves a complex interplay between the forces of gravity, friction, and centripetal force. When a rider enters a turn, gravity pulls the bike towards the center of the turn, creating a natural tendency to lean into the turn. To counteract this gravitational pull and maintain balance, the rider must apply a countervailing force known as centripetal force. This force is generated by leaning the bike into the turn and applying a slight amount of pressure to the inside handlebar.
The amount of lean required to maintain balance in a turn is largely dependent on the speed of the bike and the radius of the turn. The faster the bike is moving, the more lean is required to maintain control. Conversely, the tighter the turn, the more lean is required. To achieve the optimal balance between speed and lean, riders must coordinate their inputs to the handlebars, throttle, and brakes.
Friction also plays an important role in the physics of cornering. The tires on a sportbike are designed to provide a high level of grip and traction, allowing the rider to carve through turns with confidence. However, this grip can be easily compromised by factors such as road surface, tire wear, and weather conditions. To maximize traction and grip, it is important to maintain the correct tire pressure and keep the tires in good condition, as well as adapting your riding style to the conditions of the road.
By understanding the physics of cornering, riders can develop a deeper appreciation for the dynamics of their sportbike and the techniques required to maintain control and stability in turns. With this knowledge, riders can make more informed decisions about their riding technique and make the necessary adjustments to their speed, trajectory, and body position to ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience.
Body Position and Control
Effective cornering on a sportbike requires proper body position and control. To maintain balance and control in a lean, you need to keep your weight centered over the bike and use your body to counterbalance the forces acting on the bike. Your inside hand should grip the handlebars firmly, while your outside hand should be relaxed and ready to make adjustments. Your inside knee should be tucked into the tank, and your outside foot should be positioned on the peg for stability.
Maintaining proper body position and control is essential for effective cornering, as it allows you to respond quickly and effectively to changes in the road and the forces acting on the bike. By keeping your weight centered over the bike, you can maintain balance and control, and by using your body to counterbalance the forces acting on the bike, you can prevent the bike from tipping over in a turn.
Body position and control are critical components of effective cornering on a sportbike. Proper body position allows the rider to maintain balance and control over the bike, while also improving visibility and stability. The key elements of proper body position include:
- Lean Angle: The rider’s lean angle should be adjusted to match the speed and radius of the turn. As the speed increases or the turn tightens, the lean angle should increase accordingly. Riders should aim to maintain a smooth and gradual lean, avoiding sudden or excessive movements that can upset the balance of the bike.
- Weight Distribution: The rider’s weight should be shifted towards the inside of the turn, helping to counteract the gravitational pull towards the center of the turn. This can be achieved by shifting the rider’s body weight to the inside footpeg, while maintaining a firm grip on the handlebars.
- Upper Body: The rider’s upper body should be kept as relaxed and upright as possible, avoiding any unnecessary movements that can affect the balance of the bike. The rider should maintain a firm grip on the handlebars, using a light touch to control the bike’s movements.
- Lower Body: The rider’s lower body should be kept as still and relaxed as possible, avoiding any unnecessary movements that can affect the stability of the bike. The rider should maintain a firm grip on the footpegs, using their knees to grip the tank and maintain control over the bike.
By maintaining proper body position and control, riders can ensure a smoother and more stable ride, improving their ability to negotiate turns and respond to changing road conditions. However, it is important to note that body position and control should be adapted to the conditions of the road and the rider’s personal comfort and preference. With practice and experience, riders can develop a more refined and personalised approach to body position and control, improving their cornering skills and overall riding experience.
Braking and Acceleration Techniques
The timing and technique of braking and acceleration play a critical role in effective cornering on a sportbike. As you approach a turn, you should reduce your speed by applying the brakes smoothly and progressively. After entering the turn, you should ease off the brakes and maintain a constant speed, using the throttle as needed to maintain balance and control. As you exit the turn, you should smoothly apply the throttle to accelerate out of the turn and onto the straightaway.
Effective braking and acceleration techniques are essential for maintaining control and stability in a turn. By reducing your speed before entering a turn, you can reduce the forces acting on the bike and maintain control in a lean. By easing off the brakes after entering the turn, you can maintain a constant speed and use the throttle as needed to maintain balance and control. And by accelerating smoothly out of the turn, you can build up speed and exit the turn with confidence.
Braking and acceleration techniques are crucial components of effective cornering on a sportbike. These techniques allow the rider to control the speed and trajectory of the bike, improving stability and confidence in turns. The key principles of braking and acceleration techniques include:
- Braking: Braking should be performed as smoothly and progressively as possible, avoiding any sudden or jerky movements. The rider should aim to maintain a consistent speed throughout the turn, avoiding any sudden changes in speed that can affect stability. When braking, the rider should apply the front brake first, followed by the rear brake, adjusting the amount of pressure applied to each brake to suit the conditions of the road and the speed of the bike.
- Acceleration: Acceleration should be performed smoothly and progressively, avoiding any sudden or excessive changes in speed. The rider should aim to maintain a consistent speed throughout the turn, avoiding any sudden changes in speed that can affect stability. When accelerating, the rider should use the throttle to control the speed of the bike, adjusting the amount of throttle applied to suit the conditions of the road and the speed of the bike.
By combining proper braking and acceleration techniques with proper body position and control, riders can achieve a smoother and more stable ride, improving their ability to negotiate turns and respond to changing road conditions. However, it is important to note that braking and acceleration techniques should be adapted to the conditions of the road and the rider’s personal comfort and preference. With practice and experience, riders can develop a more refined and personalized approach to braking and acceleration, improving their cornering skills and overall riding experience.
Look Ahead and Anticipate Turns
Effective cornering on a sportbike requires you to look ahead and anticipate turns well in advance. By keeping your gaze fixed on the road ahead, you can spot obstacles and make necessary adjustments to your speed and trajectory. You should also scan the road for hazards, such as gravel, potholes, or wet spots, and avoid them whenever possible.
Looking ahead and anticipating turns is a critical component of effective cornering on a sportbike. By looking ahead and anticipating turns, riders can improve their visibility, reaction time, and stability, allowing them to negotiate turns with greater confidence and control. The key principles of look ahead and anticipating turns include:
- Look Ahead: Riders should keep their gaze focused on the road ahead, looking several seconds ahead of the bike to anticipate turns and other road hazards. This allows the rider to react in a timely manner, avoiding any sudden or unexpected movements that can affect stability.
- Anticipate Turns: Riders should anticipate turns by scanning the road ahead for any changes in direction or road conditions. This allows the rider to prepare for the turn in advance, adjusting their speed, body position, and control accordingly.
- Plan Your Line: Riders should plan their line through the turn, anticipating the path of the bike and the trajectory of the turn. This allows the rider to negotiate the turn with greater control and stability, improving their ability to maintain a consistent speed and line.
By combining proper look ahead and anticipating turns with proper body position and control, riders can achieve a smoother and more stable ride, improving their ability to negotiate turns and respond to changing road conditions. However, it is important to note that look ahead and anticipating turns should be adapted to the conditions of the road and the rider’s personal comfort and preference. With practice and experience, riders can develop a more refined and personalised approach to look ahead and anticipating turns, improving their cornering skills and overall riding experience.
Practice and Refine Your Techniques
Effective cornering on a sportbike requires practice, patience, and confidence. While it may take some time to develop the skills and techniques required to corner with confidence, with practice and refinement, you can become a more skilled and confident rider. To improve your cornering skills, consider practicing on a safe and controlled environment, such as a track day or a closed course. You can also seek feedback from more experienced riders and instructors to help refine your techniques and identify areas for improvement.
Conclusion
Cornering is an essential skill for sportbike riders, and it requires a combination of physical and mental techniques to be executed effectively. From understanding the physics of cornering to maintaining proper body position and control, braking and acceleration techniques, and looking ahead and anticipating turns, there are many factors that contribute to effective cornering on a sportbike. With practice, patience, and confidence, you can develop the skills and techniques required to corner with confidence and enjoy a safer and more enjoyable riding experience.
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Yamaha R1 vs R6: Which one is right for you?
When it comes to sport bikes, Yamaha has a reputation for producing some of the best in the market. Two of their most popular models, the R1 and R6, are often compared and debated among riders. Both bikes are powerful, sleek, and designed for high-performance riding, but there are some key differences that may make one a better fit for you than the other.
Engine and Performance
- The R1 is powered by a 998cc, liquid-cooled, inline four-cylinder engine that produces 200 horsepower and 82 lb-ft of torque. This engine is designed for high-performance riding and can propel the R1 from 0-60 mph in just over 2 seconds.
- The R6, on the other hand, is powered by a 599cc, liquid-cooled, inline four-cylinder engine that produces 120 horsepower and 43 lb-ft of torque. While still a powerful engine, the R6’s power output is more manageable for those new to sport riding.
- The R1’s engine is also equipped with Yamaha’s crossplane crankshaft technology, which gives it a unique and distinct character, and allows for smooth power delivery.
- The R6 also features advanced engine management system, which includes YCC-T, Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle, that allows the rider to experience a smooth and natural throttle response, making it easier to control.
- The R1 is geared more towards experienced riders who are looking for a high-performance bike that can handle the demands of track riding and fast-paced riding on the street. Its powerful engine and advanced features can be difficult to handle for those new to sport bikes.
- The R6, on the other hand, is more suited to those who are just starting out in sport riding or who prefer a more manageable power output. Its engine is designed to deliver a balance of performance and control, making it easier for riders to handle.
- Ultimately, the choice between the two engines will come down to the rider’s level of experience and their desired riding style. The R1’s engine is designed for experienced riders looking for a high-performance bike, while the R6’s engine is designed for those just starting out or who prefer a more manageable power output.
Specification Yamaha R1 Yamaha R6 Engine Type Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, forward-inclined parallel 4-cylinder, 4-valves Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, forward-inclined parallel 4-cylinder, 4-valves Displacement 998cc 599cc Bore x Stroke 78.0 x 52.2mm 67.0 x 42.5mm Compression Ratio 13.0 : 1 13.1 : 1 Maximum Power 200.0 HP @ 13,500 RPM 120.0 HP @ 14,500 RPM Maximum Torque 82.6 lb-ft @ 11,500 RPM 43.0 lb-ft @ 11,500 RPM Fuel System Fuel Injection Fuel Injection Lubrication Wet sump Wet sump Clutch Type Wet, multiple-disc Wet, multiple-disc Ignition TCI TCI Starting System Electric Electric Transmission 6-speed 6-speed Final Drive Chain Chain Maximum Speed 186 mph 156 mph 0-60 mph 2.7 sec 3.4 sec Handling and Suspension
When it comes to handling, both the R1 and R6 are equipped with advanced suspension systems that provide a smooth and responsive ride. However, the R1’s suspension is slightly more advanced, with fully adjustable 43mm inverted fork and a link-type rear suspension that offers a wide range of adjustability. This allows experienced riders to fine-tune the suspension to their personal preferences and riding style.
One of the main differences between the R1 and R6 in terms of handling is the wheelbase and riding position. The R1 has a longer wheelbase and a more relaxed riding position. This makes it more stable at high speeds and allows for more control during straight-line riding. The longer wheelbase also helps to reduce the bike’s tendency to wheelie, which can be a concern for some riders.
The R6, on the other hand, has a shorter wheelbase and a more aggressive riding position. This makes it more agile in tight corners and better suited for sport riding. The shorter wheelbase allows the R6 to turn more quickly and with less effort, making it more responsive to rider inputs. The riding position also puts the rider in a more forward-leaning position, which can be more comfortable for some riders during long rides.
In summary, both the R1 and R6 have advanced suspension systems that provide a smooth and responsive ride, but the R1’s is slightly more advanced. The R1’s longer wheelbase and relaxed riding position make it more stable at high speeds, while the R6’s shorter wheelbase and aggressive riding position make it more agile in tight corners. The choice between the two will come down to the rider’s personal preferences and riding style.
Specification Yamaha R1 Yamaha R6 Front Suspension 43mm USD fork, fully adjustable, 4.7 in travel 41mm fork, fully adjustable, 4.7 in travel Rear Suspension Single shock, fully adjustable, 4.7 in travel Single shock, fully adjustable, 4.7 in travel Front Brake Dual 320mm discs, 4-piston calipers Dual 310mm discs, 4-piston calipers Rear Brake 220mm disc, 2-piston caliper 220mm disc, 1-piston caliper Front Tire 120/70ZR17 120/70ZR17 Rear Tire 190/55ZR17 180/55ZR17 Rake 24.0° 24.0° Trail 4.0 in 3.5 in Wheelbase 55.1 in 54.3 in Seat Height 32.9 in 33.5 in Wet Weight 441 lb 366 lb Design and Features
When it comes to design, the R1 and R6 have different looks that appeal to different riders. The R1 has a more modern and aggressive design, with sharp lines and aerodynamic features that give it a futuristic look. The R1 also has a more aerodynamic bodywork that helps to reduce wind resistance and improve stability at high speeds.
The R6, on the other hand, has a more traditional sport bike look, with a sleek and minimalist design. The R6’s design is more classic and timeless, which some riders prefer. It has a more understated look that does not shout for attention. The R6 design is focused on providing a smooth and aerodynamic riding experience.
When it comes to features, the R1 comes with a range of advanced features such as a quick-shifter, traction control, and a slipper clutch. These features allow riders to experience a more advanced level of riding and can help to improve performance and safety. The R1 also comes with a range of electronic rider aids, such as selectable power modes and launch control, that allows riders to customize the bike’s performance to their personal preferences and riding conditions.
The R6, on the other hand, has a more basic set of features. It comes with features such as ABS and a standard clutch. It’s more suited to riders who want a more traditional sport bike experience and prefer a more minimalist approach to features.
In summary, the R1 has a more modern and aggressive design, with a range of advanced features that cater to experienced riders, while the R6 has a more traditional sport bike look, with a sleek and minimalist design, and a more basic set of features. The choice between the two will come down to the rider’s personal preferences and riding style. Some riders prefer the advanced features and modern design of the R1, while others prefer the more traditional look and basic features of the R6.
Specification Yamaha R1 Yamaha R6 Dimensions (LxWxH) 80.9 in x 27.6 in x 45.3 in 80.9 in x 27.2 in x 43.5 in Wet Weight 441 lb 366 lb Fuel Capacity 4.5 gallons 4.5 gallons Transmission 6-speed 6-speed Final Drive Chain Chain Color options Varies by model year Varies by model year Advance Features Traction control, quick-shifter, slipper clutch, ABS Traction control, quick-shifter, ABS Price and Value
When it comes to price, the R1 and R6 have different price points. The R1 is the more expensive of the two, with a starting price of around $16,000. This puts it in the higher end of the sport bike market. The R1’s higher price tag can be attributed to its advanced features and higher performance capabilities.
The R6, on the other hand, has a more affordable price point, with a starting price of around $12,000. This makes it more accessible to a wider range of riders, especially those on a budget. The R6’s more affordable price point does not mean that it’s any less of a bike, it’s still a great option for sport riding enthusiasts, and it’s still a great value for its price.
While the R1 may have more advanced features and higher performance, the R6 offers a great value for its price and is a great option for those who are looking for a sport bike that won’t break the bank. The R6 is a great choice for those who want to experience the thrill of sport riding without having to spend a lot of money.
In summary, the R1 is more expensive than the R6, and it has more advanced features and higher performance capabilities. However, the R6 offers great value for its price, and it’s a great option for those on a budget. Both the R1 and R6 are great sport bikes that cater to different riders, and the choice between the two will come down to personal preferences, riding style, and budget.
Specification Yamaha R1 Yamaha R6 Starting Price $18,000 $12,000 Warranty 1 Year (Limited Factory Warranty) 1 Year (Limited Factory Warranty) Insurance cost Varies by location and personal circumstances Varies by location and personal circumstances Maintenance cost Varies by usage, regular maintenance is required Varies by usage, regular maintenance is required In conclusion, both the Yamaha R1 and R6 are excellent sport bikes, each with its own set of strengths and weaknesses. The R1 is geared towards experienced riders looking for high performance and advanced features, while the R6 is a great option for those just starting out or on a budget. Ultimately, the choice between the two will come down to your personal preferences and riding style.
