Viking Moto Motorcycle Backpack Review
Let’s all agree that the biggest problem with our bikes being daily transportation is the lack of hauling capacity.
So, just as in our scholastic days, backpacks to the rescue! But not just any backpack will do. We’re out in the elements, we’re hauling heavier stuff than a few books, and of course, we don’t want to look like a vagabond. That’s where awesome designs like the Viking Bag’s Motorcycle Backpack shine.
This isn’t your high school backpack, oh no. This Cordura backpack features a modern classic look with leather trim and an understated aesthetic that will match your jacket and your bike, no matter what type of bike you like to ride.
Let’s take a closer look at this awesome bag, and how it can make your daily rides so much cooler.
Shot and Edited by Shaun Maddox
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Construction
As I said, this backpack is made of Cordura, a modern marvel of material sciences that fits comfortably on your body, while not being a floppy, frail backpack. With dimensions of 18.5”x12.5”x5”, you can carry groceries, personal items, or personal items with ease and comfort no other bag can offer.
Need more organization, or to haul some electronics with you? Well, Viking’s completely onboard with 21st-century life, including a laptop sleeve and stretchy, sewn in pockets for organizing your styluses, connection cords, your phone, and anything else delicate and vital you may need to carry.
That’s not even the coolest thing this bag can do. We all know how important our helmet is for safety, but when we get off our bike, it becomes a cumbersome nuisance to carry around or somehow safely secure to our bike. With this Viking bag, that’s not an issue, thanks to the stretchy helmet lining which can hold pretty much any helmet of any size no problem.
Gone are any excuses, whatsoever, to forego your helmet. You know who you are!
The Feel
I took one of these out for a day ride, that is about 6 hours round trip, to go shopping in another area (I usually wouldn’t, but it’s a good field test for gear like this). By the time I reached my destination, I almost forgot this bag was even attached to me, and that was with a heavy laptop and backup battery in my bag.
I did, however, notice that as I took the bag off when going into a restaurant, that my shirt was a bit damp, as I’d sweat from where it blocked air flow to an extent. However, having had other bags leave the back of my shirt completely soaked through, I’d call this a considerable improvement in that department. Given this bag is weatherized, it kind of can’t have the airflow of something mesh, and I’d rather sweat a tiny bit while having my stuff protected from the elements.
What really caught my attention was the lack of soreness or discomfort across my shoulders, neck and upper back. I’m a broad-shouldered fellow, which means most backpacks with any weight, tend to tug on muscles and leave me sore or even numb – the broad design of the straps both across the shoulders and waist, didn’t cause that problem at all.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- This is an attractive bag that doesn’t scream “hobo” or “kid”, with a professional yet casual aesthetic that matches any jacket well enough.
- It’s weatherized, and will protect everything with gusto.
- It’s very comfortable, and the strap designs don’t cause soreness, discomfort or circulation problems.
- I can carry my electronics in an organized fashion – this modern thinking is lost on a lot of biking gear companies.
- The helmet lining does the biking community two great services by making our helmets no longer a nuisance, and eliminating any excuses for anyone to foolishly leave their helmets behind.
Cons
- Being weatherized, you will sweat a little bit, it can’t be helped.
- While attractive, the black may not be everyone’s taste.
- I know a few hefty guys who might find the fit of this bag, adjustable as it is, to be a bit precarious.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS
- Heavy duty Cardura Construction.
- Reflective piping for additional night time visibility.
- Built in helmet hood.
- Fits most 15″ laptops in padded compartment.
- Detailed organizer for your keys, wallet and other small items.
- Protective eyewear pocket.
- Duraflex® buckles throughout for added strength.
- Audio Ready.
- Height and width adjustable sternum strap.
- Aerodynamic molded body.
Conclusion
I like this bag. It’s not perfect, and I can see some room for improvement in variety of color schemes as well as a bit more adjustability in the straps for bigger people. I’d also like to see another model that’s stretchier, for if I have more stuff to haul back.
Nonetheless, this is a nice bag, and if you ride your bike for daily things like I do in decent weather, you owe it to yourself to give a bag like this a try!
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What Every Rider Should Know About Road Rash
Road rash isn’t a punchline to a joke about bad motorcycle handling or old video game. Road rash, also called “friction burn,” is a serious injury. The severity of the wound is measured by degrees, the same as you would a chemical or fire burn. Since the skin is the largest organ of our bodies, getting road rash opens you up to other vulnerabilities, such as infection. But there is more to understand about road rash than these points.
Let’s look at this serious injury that can happen to anyone and learn how to classify and treat various types of road rash.
The Different Types of Road Rash
Not every bout of road rash is created equal. There are three main types of road rash:
- Avulsion – the skin is scraped away. Sometimes fat, muscle, and even bone will be exposed.
- Compression – where the body is caught between two objects, such as the motorcycle and the road. This results in bruising, broken bones, and damaged muscle.
- Open wound – usually require stitches. Open wound road rash might even require skin grafting.
Aside from the 3 different types, there are 3 degrees of damage:
- First degree – the first layer of the skin is red. Does not require medical treatment and will heal well enough on its own.
- Second degree – the first layer of skin, known as the epidermis, is broken. There can be bleeding and debris stuck in the wound. Usually requires little medical treatment and can heal with no scarring or lasting damage.
- Third degree – skin has been peeled away, leaving tissue, fat and sometimes bone exposed. Victims often need skin grafting.
The degrees of the crash depends on factors such as the force of the impact with the ground, the type of surface where the crash takes place, and whether safety gear was equipped.
Road rash will often occur in places that come in contact with the abrasive surface, either when attempting to catch oneself or when rolling or getting dragged. The outside of the legs, knees, palms, thighs, shoulders, and face are usually where road rash occurs.
Complications of Road Rash
Seek medical treatment immediately if you experience any of the following with road rash:
- Severe pain
- Inability to move affected region
- Cuts on the face that are larger than a ¼ inch
- Cuts on the body that are larger than a ½ inch
- Bleeding doesn’t stop
- Gaping wound remains opened with you relax the body
- Fat is visible in the exposed tissues
- Road rash is paired with other injuries, including possible concussion or broken bones.
Any open wound should be treated with antibiotics within six hours. Otherwise, you are at risk of infection.
Treatment and Recovery From Road Rash
Depending on the severity of the road rash, you can oftentimes treat it yourself. In that event, do the following:
- Stop any bleeding.
- Wash your hands with soap and water.
- Rinse the wound thoroughly.
- Wash the wound with soap, water, and then use some witch hazel.
- Apply a topical antibiotic.
- Bandage the wound.
- Change the dressing.
Note: During the recovery, the skin will undergo healing from the deepest layers to the top. It might get scabs. Do not pick the scabs. Instead, continue changing the bandages and applying topical antibiotics. Once the oozing stops, you can use petroleum jelly to keep the skin supple and lessen the scarring.
If you end up going to the doctor because of a deep wound, the medical professional might recommend using ibuprofen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), acetaminophen, or naproxen to deal with the pain.
Remember that because the skin has been opened by abrasion, you could be at risk for infection. Consider getting a tetanus shot. Tetanus boosters last 10 years, so if you had an injury where the epidermis or dermis of the skin has been injured, tetanus bacteria can enter the wound. At any time symptoms of infection begin, such as redness, swelling, warm or hot skin around the injury, tenderness, pain, or bloody ooze or yellowish pus, you could have an infection. Make sure to get to a doctor immediately.
Hopefully, you should now have an understanding of road rash and how serious it can be. Don’t ignore severe injuries after a fall. Drive safe and stay safe, so you can keep riding!
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Safety First: Essential Gear for Sportbike Riding
Sportbike riding is a thrilling and exhilarating experience, but it can also be dangerous if proper safety precautions are not taken. One of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself while riding is to wear the right gear. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting out, it’s essential to have the right equipment to keep you safe on the road.
Riding a sportbike is a thrilling experience, but it is also important to prioritize safety. Wearing the right gear can help protect you in the event of a crash and keep you comfortable on long rides. In this article, we will explore the essential items that every sportbike rider should have.
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Protect Your Most Valuable Asset with a DOT or Snell Certified Helmet
When it comes to riding a sportbike, the helmet is the most crucial piece of gear you can wear. It protects the most valuable part of your body, your head and neck. It is essential to choose a helmet that is DOT or Snell certified, as these have undergone rigorous testing to meet strict safety standards. A good helmet should fit snugly and comfortably, without being too tight or too loose. Make sure to try on several different brands and models to find the best fit for your head shape.
A good helmet should also have adequate ventilation to keep your head cool and dry, as well as an interior lining that is comfortable and moisture-wicking. Some helmets come with removable and washable liners, which can be a great feature for keeping your helmet fresh and clean. The helmet should also have a secure chin strap that keeps the helmet in place in the event of a crash.
When choosing a helmet, consider your riding style, as well as the weather conditions you will be riding in. If you do a lot of highway riding, a full-face helmet is a good choice, as it provides the most protection for your face and chin. If you do a lot of off-road riding, an open-face or modular helmet may be a better option, as it provides better ventilation and a wider field of view.
In conclusion, the helmet is the most important piece of gear you can wear while riding a sportbike. It is essential to choose a DOT or Snell certified helmet that fits well and provides adequate protection for your head and neck. Invest in a high-quality helmet, as it could save your life in the event of a crash.
Protect Your Body with the Right Motorcycle Jacket
A motorcycle jacket is a crucial piece of gear for sportbike riding. It serves not only as a barrier against wind and rain, but also as a layer of protection in the event of a crash. When choosing a motorcycle jacket, look for one made of abrasion-resistant material, such as leather or kevlar. This type of material will provide better protection in the event of a slide or impact.
Some motorcycle jackets come equipped with armor in the elbows, shoulders, and back. This extra layer of protection can help reduce the risk of injury in a crash. When shopping for a motorcycle jacket, look for one with CE-certified armor, as this type of armor has been tested to meet strict safety standards.
In addition to protection, a motorcycle jacket should also be comfortable to wear. Look for a jacket with adjustable straps and zippers, as well as a lining that will keep you warm on cooler days and cool on hot days. When trying on a jacket, make sure it fits well and allows for a full range of motion.
By investing in a high-quality motorcycle jacket, riders can feel confident and protected while riding their sportbike.
Protect Your Hands with Abrasion-Resistant Gloves
When it comes to riding a sportbike, gloves are more than just a comfort item – they are essential for safety. In addition to protecting your hands from wind, rain, and other elements, gloves can help protect your hands in the event of a crash. Abrasion-resistant materials, such as leather or heavy-duty fabrics, provide the best protection against road rash and other injuries.
When choosing gloves, it’s important to look for gloves with reinforced palms. This extra layer of protection helps to prevent injuries to your hands, as well as reducing the risk of cuts and bruises in the event of a crash. Make sure the gloves fit snugly, but are not too tight, as you want to ensure they do not restrict your ability to grip the handlebars or shift gears.
Ultimately, investing in a good pair of motorcycle gloves can make a big difference in terms of your safety and comfort on the road. So, make sure to choose gloves that meet your specific needs, whether you are looking for additional protection, extra comfort, or improved grip.
Keep Your Feet Safe with Motorcycle Boots
Riding a sportbike can be dangerous, especially if you don’t have the proper gear to protect yourself. Your feet and ankles are especially vulnerable in the event of a crash, making motorcycle boots an essential piece of gear for any rider.
When choosing motorcycle boots, look for a pair that is made of abrasion-resistant material. This will help protect your feet from road rash in the event of a crash. Additionally, look for boots that have reinforced toes and heels. These extra layers of protection can help reduce the risk of injury in the event of an impact.
Another important factor to consider when choosing motorcycle boots is fit. Make sure the boots fit snugly and don’t move around on your feet while you ride. This will help you maintain proper control of your bike, especially in the event of a sudden maneuver.
In addition to providing protection, motorcycle boots can also offer added comfort and support. Look for boots with a comfortable and supportive insole, and choose a pair that is water-resistant if you plan on riding in inclement weather.
Motorcycle boots are a crucial piece of gear for any sportbike rider. By investing in a high-quality pair of abrasion-resistant boots with reinforced toes and heels, you can help protect your feet and ankles while enjoying your ride.
Protect Your Lower Half with Motorcycle Pants
When it comes to motorcycle gear, many riders focus on the upper half of their body, but it’s just as important to protect the lower half as well. Motorcycle pants are an essential piece of gear that should be made of abrasion-resistant material to protect your legs in the event of a crash. The material should be strong enough to resist tearing and provide a barrier against the road in the event of an accident.
When choosing motorcycle pants, look for pants with reinforced knees and hips. These areas are vulnerable in the event of a crash, so extra protection is essential. Many pants also feature adjustable straps and zippers to provide a secure and comfortable fit.
In addition to safety, motorcycle pants should also be comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. Look for pants that are made of breathable material and provide a good range of motion for riding. Consider the climate in your area when choosing pants and look for options that are designed to keep you cool in hot weather or warm in cold weather.
Motorcycle pants are an essential piece of gear that should not be overlooked. Protect your legs and ensure your comfort by investing in a good pair of motorcycle pants.
Eye Protection
Eye protection is an essential aspect of sportbike riding that should not be overlooked. When riding at high speeds, debris from the road can easily fly up and cause injury to your eyes. This is why investing in a good pair of motorcycle glasses or a full-face helmet with a visor is important. The glasses or visor should have the capability to shield your eyes from wind, rain, and other elements that can cause discomfort and distraction while riding. Additionally, it is important to choose glasses or a visor that provides a clear and unobstructed view while riding.
In the event of a crash, a full-face helmet with a visor provides added protection for your face and eyes. The visor will protect your face from impacts, as well as prevent debris from entering your helmet. On the other hand, motorcycle glasses can be removed and replaced quickly and easily, making them a convenient option for riders who frequently switch between open-face and full-face helmets.
Eye protection is an essential component of sportbike riding gear. It helps keep you safe from the elements, debris from the road, and other potential hazards while riding. Invest in a good pair of motorcycle glasses or a full-face helmet with a visor, and ensure that you have the proper eye protection to enjoy a safe and comfortable ride.
Conclusion
In conclusion, having the right gear while riding a sportbike is not only crucial for your safety but also enhances your overall riding experience. Wearing the right gear protects you from the elements, including wind, rain, and road debris, and also helps prevent injury in case of a crash. A DOT or Snell-certified helmet, abrasion-resistant jacket, gloves, boots, pants, and proper eye protection are all important pieces of gear that every sportbike rider should have. Don’t compromise on safety and invest in high-quality gear that will give you peace of mind and allow you to fully enjoy your ride. Remember, when it comes to riding a sportbike, safety should always come first.
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Viking Cycle Bloodaxe Leather Motorcycle Jacket Review
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.
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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.
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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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