Adapted from original blog post by cardosystems.com
Motorcyclists tend to have an independent streak. They value what’s unique and special, like the close relationship between a rider and a bike, or the incomparable feeling of twisting the throttle and taking off. When you’re buying a gift for the motorcycle rider in your life, you want to capture a little bit of what makes the experience so special and compelling. That might sound tough to find, but there’s a whole wide world of motorcycle-related merchandise out there.
On the other hand, with such a huge array of gear and gifts to choose from, it can be challenging to sift through the options to find that one perfect gift - particularly if you don’t ride yourself. There’s always the gift card option, but it can feel impersonal for some folks. And some major motorcycle purchases, like helmets and gloves, are better made by the person who will be wearing them.
We have put together this handy list of unique gifts to jump-start your buying process for the motorcyclist in your life. Whether you’re shopping for a Christmas gift, or a gift at any other time, this list is sure to be useful for your loved ones who prefer two wheels.
1. Motorcycle Backpack
Any biker will tell you that you don’t want any old backpack on a motorcycle. You need something that’s designed to be aerodynamic with minimal drag. Lots of great motorcycle rider packs are now available in a wide variety of designs that make them perfect for many different kinds of riders. Styles range from slim and sports-oriented to more traditional and high-capacity models.
We recommend: Kriega rider packs like the R22 Backpack. The Kriega designers are motorcyclists themselves, so they understand what riders want out of their luggage. And the quality of Kriega is unmatched!
Image credit: Kriega R22 Backpack for Motogear
2. Motorcycle Tool Kit
If your motorcyclist is also handy on the tools, a portable motorcycle tool kit can be a great gift. Motorcycle tool kits allow a rider to carry the most useful tools that they might need for a quick roadside repair. Pliers, torque wrenches, cable ties and more can be packed into these handy roll-up or fold up kits, and they fit easily into motorcycle saddlebags, tank bags, and pillion bags.
We recommend: Kriega wins our recommendation again, with their fold-out Tool Roll. With 30x elastic loops and a zip pocket, this tool roll is easily transportable and has a 10 year workmanship guarantee to underscore its quality.
Image credit: Kriega Tool Roll for Motogear
3. Helmet Communications System
Group rides with friends and family can be one of the most fun and rewarding parts of riding a motorcycle, but staying in touch while riding makes it even more enjoyable. A helmet communications system is the perfect way to communicate during a ride. Motorcycle helmet intercom systems use technologies like Bluetooth or Dynamic Mesh Communication (DMC) to create intercom networks between riders in a group, or between riders and pillions, all while allowing the rider to keep their eyes on the road and their hands on their controls.
We recommend: anything Cardo, or course! Visit our Moto range to view our wide range of Cardo Motorcycle Communicators.
Image credit: @cudby for Cardo
4. Action Camera
These small but mighty cameras are designed to be mounted on a rider’s helmet or handlebars and can take just about any combination of wind, water and general weather nastiness. They’re a great way to look back at treasured memories of rides past - from hair-raising corners to breathtaking scenery - and can help riders identify their riding habits and improve their technique. Action cameras are especially useful for capturing the excitement and scenery of an off-road adventure or documenting a long ride. And in a worst-case scenario, they can even provide helpful evidence to catch irresponsible drivers after an accident.
While GoPro is the action camera brand that’s familiar to most people, there are now plenty of other great brands on the market. Some feature impressive tech like 4K video, image stabilisation and even live streaming. Whichever model you go with, make sure to grab a helmet mount or handlebar mount to go with the camera as well.
Image credit: Quad Lock for Motogear
5. Motorcycle Lock
Unfortunately, motorcycles can be easy to steal, especially if they aren't locked up. This is why a sturdy motorcycle lock can become the most appreciated gift! Many different kinds of locks are available, from tiny disc locks for scooters and small capacity motorcycles, through to chunky chain and alarm combinations. Look for locks that are tailored for motorcycles, offer a secure fit, and are compatible with the bike model you are buying for - if in doubt, contact your local motorcycle retailer for more help.
We recommend: ABUS have been perfecting security systems for over a hundred years. They utilise high-quality materials and all ABUS products are designed and made in Germany. Check out the ABUS 7000 RS1 Dectecto for an alarm disc lock option.
Image credit: ABUS for Motogear
6. Scale Models
There are plenty of great motorcycle gifts that aren’t riding gear. Many people who ride motorcycles also love showing off their favourite bikes, as well as the process of building and tinkering with something. Scale model motorcycles are a fun and crafty gift that can do both by taking a motorcyclist back to their childhood model-building days.
Many different kinds of motorcycles are available as ultra-detailed scale models. You’ll find everything from Harleys to Honda Ape 50's in miniature size, crafted with loving detail right down to each bike’s specific engine parts. Some come pre-assembled and ready to go, while others require a few hours spent with model glue and a craft knife. Give your loved one the gift of a custom motorcycle build, at a reasonable price point.
7. Books
Anything about motorcycle culture makes a great present, and books can offer something for everyone. From thrilling adventure tales and detailed technical guides, to stunning photography collections and iconic brand histories, motorcycle books inspire and entertain. They provide the perfect opportunity to fuel dreams of the open road, making them a thoughtful and personal gift for the holiday season.
8. Care Kits
Many motorcyclists are sticklers about bike and gear maintenance, which makes a care kit an ideal gift for those who love two wheels. From bike washing packs, maintenance kits, through to helmet care, a hamper of motorcycle products will be a welcome gift.
We recommend: Motomuck is the ultimate bike cleaning product in NZ, and they offer a variety of gift pack combos. IPONE Chain Care Packs are a great gift for the practical motorcyclist, available for both Road and Off-Road riding. And the IPONE Care Line Helmet Kit is designed to refresh a helmet inside and out as good-as-new.
Image credit: IPONE for Motogear
9. Printed Coffee Cup
For the times they can't be on their bike, your loved one will no doubt appreciate a hot brew in a cup representing their ride. They don't usually cost a lot of money, and you can print almost any image on the side of a mug these days. Find a photo of them and their current bike, a picture of their dream bike, or even a snapshot of when they got their first motorbike back in the day. You can also find all kinds of motorcycle-inspired designs online for the motorcycling aficionado in your life. Print, unwrap, and drink!
10. Motorcycle T-Shirt
Everyone loves a t-shirt, and it can be a great way for your motorcyclist to show off their unique personality. Find a shirt that captures everything they love about motorcycles - whether it’s official merch from their favourite marque or racer, or a photo of the open road. Or if they belong to a motorcycle group and you want to go big, you could design a logo for their club, order custom shirts in bulk, and give one to every member of the group!
11. Keychain
The last thing your loved one needs to worry about is losing their keys. You can help them stay organised by getting them a special motorcycle keyring, like a chain that clips onto their belt or vest for easy access when they’re riding their bike. You can even get them a remote GPS tracker for their keys so they can locate them on an app - then they won’t have to worry about losing their keys ever again! Or find one that comes with a light to help them see their motorcycle ignition in the dark. One thing to consider: solid metal key charms can fling about in the air turbulence, depending on the type of bike your loved one rides. Since you don't want to scratch their pride and joy, consider a soft or lightweight key charm. Or if you have the technology, you could try 3D printing something suitable!
Image credit: Author's own 3D printed Suzuki logo
12. Tyre Repair Kit
There's a well-known saying in motorcycling: ‘if you have it, you won’t need it’. Usually referring to carrying a tool, spare inner tube, or repair item like Selleys Knead It (the clue is in the name), it is never more true than in regards to a tyre puncture repair kit. Save your favourite motorcyclist from any roadside distress, by gifting them a transportable Tyre Repair Kit. Designed to keep them moving until they reach the closest repair shop, kits may include a tyre pressure gauge, air pump, lubrication, putty sealant and relevant repair tools.
We recommend: The Tech 7 Tubeless Tyre Repair Kit has everything a stranded road-rider might need for a temporary roadside repair. Just check your loved one rides with tubeless tyres (the most common road-riding tyres), and they will be set with this kit!
Image credit: Tech 7 Tyre Repair Kit for Motogear
13. Phone Mount
This gift is probably best reserved for someone whom you know will use it responsibly - we’re thinking GPS and traffic reports, not Instagram and TikTok! That said, a smartphone gadget like a phone mount can be an ideal way to help a motorcyclist enjoy the benefits of GPS while keeping their hands on the handlebars. And remember that Cardo Systems Bluetooth motorcycle helmet communicators offer voice operation for smartphone integration that’s completely hands-free!
We recommend: Quad Lock for the very best in smartphone mounts. And don't forget to include the motorcycle vibration dampener - no matter how smooth your loved one rides, this is a necessary add-on for all motorcycle phone mounts.
In Summary
Finding the perfect gift for the motorcyclist in your life can be a thrilling challenge, but our list of 13 unique gifts makes it easy to impress any rider. Whether they’re seasoned riders or new enthusiasts, these gift ideas are sure to rev up their holiday season and bring a smile to their face.
Title Image credit: cardosystems.com