EnduroTrail X3 Adventure Helmet
A mid-range adventure helmet that punches above its weight. Worn for 12,000 miles across various climates, from Scottish rain to Spanish heat.
Pros
- Excellent ventilation keeps head cool in summer heat
- Peak is adjustable and doesn't lift at motorway speeds
- Good quality visor seals effectively against rain
- Reasonable price point for the feature set
- Comfortable for all-day wear
Cons
- Slightly noisy above 60mph without earplugs
- Visor mechanism can be stiff when new
- Peak design channels rain onto visor in heavy weather
- Limited color options
TrailGuard All-Season Adventure Jacket
After two years and approximately 20,000 miles, this jacket has become the benchmark against which all others are measured. Genuinely waterproof and surprisingly breathable.
Pros
- Truly waterproof in sustained heavy rain
- Better breathability than most competitors
- Armor adjusts easily and stays in place
- Multiple ventilation options work effectively
- Thermal liner adds genuine warmth
- Quality construction with reinforced high-wear areas
Cons
- Premium price reflects the quality
- Heavy when worn with all layers
- Some pockets difficult to access while riding
RoadRunner Aluminum Pannier System
Hard panniers that have survived multiple drops, rough tracks, and extreme weather. Fitted to a Ténéré 700 for extended European touring.
Pros
- Incredibly durable aluminum construction
- Completely waterproof in all conditions tested
- Quick-release system works reliably
- Can be locked for security
- Survived multiple low-speed drops without damage
Cons
- Expensive compared to soft luggage options
- Adds significant weight to the bike
- Mounting system requires some DIY skills
- Can be noisy over rough surfaces
DualSport Enduro Max Tyres
A 70/30 tyre claiming off-road capability with road manners. Tested across 6,000 miles of mixed terrain to see if it delivers on both fronts.
Pros
- Good off-road grip on gravel and hardpack
- Reasonable tarmac handling for a knobby tyre
- Decent wear rate for dual-sport rubber
- Affordable price point
Cons
- Lacks confidence in wet tarmac corners
- Struggles in deep mud or sand
- Noisy on motorways
- Not ideal for extended tarmac touring
NavigatorPro GPS Mount and Charging System
A robust mounting solution with integrated USB charging. Tested over 18 months on various bike models and across different road conditions.
Pros
- Rock-solid mount that never loosened
- Reliable USB charging even in rain
- Easy to adjust viewing angle
- Fits most smartphones and small GPS units
- Quality build with metal components
Cons
- Installation requires drilling or permanent mounting
- Bulky compared to some alternatives
- USB port can be difficult to access with gloves