Roadside Assistance 101: When to Call a Tow Truck

by Road Emergencies & What to Do

Car trouble is often the last thing anyone expects during their daily commute or a long road trip. It sneaks up on you, leaving you stranded and stressed—especially if you’re far from home. Knowing when you need roadside assistance and how to handle unexpected issues can save you time, money, and frustration.

This guide covers the most common roadside emergencies, steps to take before calling for help, and what to look for in a roadside assistance service. By the end, you’ll be equipped to handle car troubles confidently and know exactly when it’s time to call a tow truck.

Common Situations for Calling a Tow Truck

Not every roadside incident requires professional help, but some situations make towing essential. Here are the most common scenarios:

Flat Tire

Flat tires are one of the most frequent reasons drivers need assistance. If you don’t have a usable spare, or lack the tools or experience to replace it, a tow truck—or mobile tire service—is your safest bet.

Locked Keys in the Car

Locking your keys inside your vehicle is more common than you think. Roadside technicians can often unlock your car without causing damage, saving time and stress.

Dead Battery

Whether your battery died from age or leaving the lights on, jump-starting your vehicle might not always be an option. Many services offer on-the-spot jump-starts or battery replacement.

Running Out of Fuel

Running out of gas can leave you stranded in an inconvenient or unsafe location. Many roadside providers will deliver a small amount of fuel to get you back on the road.

Engine Overheating

When the temperature gauge spikes or you see steam, it’s time to stop driving. Continuing with an overheated engine can cause serious damage. In this case, a tow is necessary.

Mechanical Failure

Strange noises, stalling, or gear shifting issues often point to mechanical failure. If your car won’t move safely, call for a tow to the nearest repair shop.

Stuck in a Ditch

Icy roads, rain, or unexpected curves can leave your vehicle stuck off-road. Tow trucks equipped with winching systems can safely recover your car without further damage.

Accidents

After an accident, even minor damage can compromise your vehicle’s drivability. A tow truck ensures safe transport to a repair facility.

Assessing Your Roadside Emergency

Before calling for help, take a moment to assess the situation for your safety and to better assist the towing provider:

  1. Move to Safety
    If your vehicle is still drivable, steer it to the shoulder or a safe area away from traffic. Use hazard lights immediately.

  2. Use Your Emergency Kit
    A well-stocked kit should include:

    • Reflective triangles or flares

    • Flashlight with batteries

    • Jumper cables

    • First-aid kit

    • Blanket

    • Basic tools

    • Portable phone charger

  3. Note Key Details
    Record your location using nearby landmarks, mile markers, or GPS. Also, note your vehicle’s condition and any visible damage.

  4. Call for Help
    Contact a trusted roadside service provider. Be clear and specific so they send the right assistance.

  5. Stay Safe While Waiting
    If you’re on a busy highway or in low visibility, stay inside your vehicle with your seatbelt on. Only exit the vehicle when it’s safe.

Choosing a Roadside Assistance Provider

The quality of service can vary widely, so look for these features when selecting a provider:

  • 24/7 Availability: Car trouble can strike at any time. Choose a provider that’s always on call.

  • Fast Response Times: Time matters—especially in unsafe or remote locations.

  • Wide Service Coverage: Ensure they cover both urban and rural routes.

  • Transparent Pricing: Hidden fees can turn a small problem into a big one.

  • Qualified Technicians: Experienced staff can resolve more issues on-site.

  • Positive Reviews: Look for customer feedback on reliability and professionalism.

  • Added Benefits: Some plans include perks like member discounts, emergency lodging, or trip reimbursement.

Reliable roadside assistance brings peace of mind, especially when driving long distances or during harsh weather.

In Summary

Car trouble is unpredictable, but how you handle it doesn’t have to be. Understanding the common reasons to call a tow truck—and having a reliable roadside assistance plan—can help you stay calm, safe, and prepared in any situation.

From flat tires to engine trouble or post-accident recovery, knowing when and how to act makes all the difference. Keep an emergency kit in your car, research a dependable provider, and drive with the confidence that help is just a call away when you need it most.

Why Professional Long Distance Towing is a Game Changer

by Road Emergencies & What to Do

Whether you’re relocating across states, experiencing a vehicle breakdown far from home, or buying a car from hundreds of miles away, long-distance towing can be a lifesaver. But taking a DIY approach to vehicle transport is often risky, stressful, and time-consuming. This is where professional long-distance towing services shine.

This guide explores why hiring a professional towing company is a smart move, the benefits of these services, common situations that require long-distance towing, and how to choose the right provider. By the end, you’ll understand exactly why professional towing is worth every penny.

The Benefits of Hiring Professionals for Long-Distance Towing

When moving a vehicle over hundreds of miles, the advantages of using a professional service are clear:

Safety Comes First

Long-distance towing requires secure vehicle handling to prevent damage to your car and ensure road safety. Professionals are trained to use proper tie-down techniques and follow strict transport protocols for peace of mind.

Expertise You Can Rely On

From loading heavy vehicles to navigating unpredictable terrain, experienced technicians know how to handle the entire process efficiently and with care.

Equipped With the Right Tools

Professionals use advanced tools—such as flatbeds, wheel-lift systems, and heavy-duty trailers—tailored for different vehicle types. This eliminates the risk of relying on inadequate DIY gear.

When Do You Need a Long-Distance Tow?

Here are the most common scenarios that call for long-distance towing services:

Relocating to a New City or State

Driving multiple vehicles to your new home may not be practical or possible. Professional towing lets you focus on your move while ensuring safe vehicle delivery.

Breakdowns Far From Home

When your vehicle breaks down far from your mechanic, towing services can transport it back to your preferred shop—even across state lines.

Buying a Car From Another State

Online car purchases are increasingly common. A long-distance tow ensures your new vehicle arrives safely—without you needing to travel to pick it up.

Specialized Transport Needs

Vintage, luxury, and antique cars—or heavy machinery—often require special care and equipment. Professional services provide the attention these vehicles need.

What to Look for in a Long-Distance Towing Company

Not all towing companies are created equal. Choose wisely with these criteria:

  • Insurance & Licensing
    Confirm the provider is fully licensed and insured for long-distance vehicle transport. This safeguards your investment.

  • Experience & Reputation
    Look for companies with proven success in long-distance towing. Read customer reviews and ratings for insight into their professionalism and reliability.

  • Transparent Pricing
    Request a detailed quote upfront. Rates may include:

    • Base cost (e.g., per-mile fee)

    • Vehicle type surcharges (SUVs, trucks, etc.)

    • Fuel or distance surcharges

    • Extras like winch-out or roadside assistance

  • Customer Support
    Responsive, helpful customer service makes the experience smoother from start to finish.

  • Availability & Coverage
    Ensure the company services both your pickup and drop-off locations and can work within your time frame.

How Is the Cost of Long-Distance Towing Calculated?

Pricing varies based on several factors:

  • Distance: The longer the trip, the higher the cost.

  • Vehicle Type: Larger or specialty vehicles may require additional equipment or handling.

  • Extra Services: Winching, recovery, and on-road assistance may be billed separately.

To plan your budget accurately, request a custom quote based on your specific needs.

Why Professional Towing Is Worth It

With professional long-distance towing, you’re getting more than just a ride for your vehicle—you’re investing in safety, efficiency, and peace of mind. Whether it’s a high-value car, heavy equipment, or a breakdown far from home, experienced technicians ensure a secure and timely transport.

In Summary

From cross-country relocations to classic car deliveries, professional long-distance towing services take the stress out of vehicle transport. They bring the expertise, equipment, and reliability needed for a smooth experience—no matter how far your destination.

So whether you’re moving, buying a vehicle remotely, or recovering from a breakdown, don’t leave your transport to chance. A trusted towing company will handle the hard work while you focus on what matters most.

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Hands-On Review: Richa Infinity 3 Pro Jacket

by Innovation on Two Wheels

The Richa Infinity 3 Pro is a multi-season textile motorcycle adventure touring jacket designed for riders looking for a balance between affordability, comfort, and protection. Priced at around $465, it features a laminated waterproof membrane, thermal liner, CE AA abrasion rating, and D3O CE Level 1 armor in the shoulders and elbows.

It sits at the top of Richa’s Infinity line and offers excellent build quality with thoughtful features.

Review Summary

  • Waterproofing: AquaShell LTZ membrane integrated into the jacket’s outer shell

  • Abrasion Protection: CE AA rated Cordura + Superfabric at impact zones

  • Impact Protection: D3O CE Level 1 armor in shoulders and elbows

  • Comfort: Neoprene collar, detachable thermal liner, ergonomic design

  • Visibility: Hi-viz colorway with extensive reflective elements

  • Ventilation: Chest and forearm vents + back exhausts

Downsides:

  • No back protector included

  • Only CE Level 1 armor

  • Limited sizing options—no tall/short or women’s sizes

  • Type B armor would be better for larger sizes

Jacket Features

  • Abrasion-resistant Cordura outer shell

  • Superfabric reinforcements in high-impact zones

  • Laminated waterproof Aquashell LTZ membrane

  • D3O CE Level 1 shoulder and elbow armor

  • Large front vent panels with Fidlock closures

  • Thermal liner with standalone wearability

  • Adjustable waist, arms, collar, and wrists

  • 7 outer pockets + 4 liner pockets

  • Hi-visibility and reflective elements throughout

Build Quality & Materials

  • Outer Shell: 100% Polyester (Cordura + Superfabric)

  • Membrane: 100% Polyester (Aquashell LTZ)

  • Lining: 100% Polyester mesh for airflow

The materials feel durable and well-assembled, with smooth zippers, solid stitching, and robust hardware throughout.

Fit & Comfort

The jacket fits true to the Richa sizing chart. Riders with longer torsos may find the length slightly short. It features:

  • Curved arms for comfort in riding position

  • Ample sleeve length

  • Adjustable elements to fine-tune fit

  • Neoprene collar edge to prevent chafing

The included thermal liner is warm, easy to remove, and can be worn as a standalone jacket off the bike.

Ventilation & Breathability

Ventilation is good—but not great. Laminated waterproofing limits airflow compared to jackets with removable liners.

Ventilation Features:

  • Chest vents with Fidlock magnetic system

  • Forearm intake vents

  • Rear exhaust vents behind storm flaps

For hot summer days, a jacket like the Infinity 2 Adventure, which features larger mesh panels and more venting, would outperform it.

Protection

  • CE AA abrasion rating

  • D3O CE Level 1 armor in shoulders and elbows

  • Pockets for optional back and chest protectors

Armor Certification Details:

  • Shoulder (EN 1621-1:2012, Type A, Level 1)

  • Elbow (EN 1621-1:2012, Type A, Level 1)

While protection is solid, the jacket could benefit from CE Level 2 armor and Type B (larger coverage) in bigger sizes. The lack of an included back protector is a notable omission at this price point.

Waterproofing

The Aquashell LTZ membrane performs very well in real-world rain testing. It kept the rider completely dry during light to moderate rainfall.

Make sure chest vents are securely closed in wet weather; rear exhaust vents are protected by storm flaps.

Visibility

The Black/Grey/Fluorescent Yellow colorway is highly visible during the day. The jacket includes extensive reflective trim in key zones (back, arms, chest, branding) for low-light conditions.

Color Options

  • Black/Grey/Fluorescent Yellow

  • Black/Grey

Sizing

Available in:
Men’s S, M, L, XL, 2XL, 3XL, 4XL, 5XL, 6XL

No tall, short, or women’s versions are offered.

Pros

  • Integrated AquaShell waterproof membrane

  • D3O Level 1 armor included

  • CE AA abrasion rating

  • Detachable thermal liner (wearable separately)

  • Excellent build quality and adjustability

  • Good visibility in all conditions

Cons

  • Back protector not included

  • Only Level 1 armor

  • No women’s or tall/short sizing

  • Type B armor would be ideal for larger sizes

Final Verdict

The Richa Infinity 3 Pro is a strong option for riders looking for an affordable, all-season adventure jacket with solid protection and waterproofing. While it lacks top-tier ventilation and higher-level armor, it delivers great value, comfort, and usability across a wide range of temperatures and weather.

If you ride in mixed conditions and want an integrated waterproof jacket with thoughtful features and solid performance, the Infinity 3 Pro is an excellent mid-range choice.

Sena SMART HJC 50B Bluetooth & Mesh Communication System Review

by Innovation on Two Wheels

The SMART HJC 50B Bluetooth & Mesh communication system is a powerful device by Sena that seamlessly integrates with a select few HJC helmets. It supports both Bluetooth and Mesh intercom, and boasts a 13-hour battery life. Features like music sharing add value, although the device is limited to HJC helmets, which reduces flexibility. Still, for riders with a compatible helmet, it’s an excellent communicator.

Pros

  • Perfect integration with select HJC helmets

  • Voice operation enabled

  • Advanced noise control effectively eliminates background noise

  • Music sharing between SMART headset units

  • Long battery life

  • Mesh intercom connects up to 6 riders within 2 km

  • Intuitive app interface

  • Discreet, secure mounting

Cons

  • Buttons on both sides can be distracting

  • Mesh bridging with other brands must be initiated by them

  • Premium pricing, considering it’s limited to HJC helmets

  • Device settings need optimization before first use

Review Summary

  • Price: $349.99 USD

  • Compatible with select HJC helmets including carbon fiber models

  • Excellent build and seamless helmet integration

  • Very easy installation—took under 5 minutes

  • Good sound, but not as deep or rich as competing units like Cardo

  • Sound can be tinny at higher speeds

  • App simplifies setup and adjustments

  • Long battery life—13 hours continuous use

  • Buttons on both sides may distract riders

  • Limited to HJC helmets—less ideal for riders who rotate helmets

A Collaboration Between Two Giants

Sena and HJC—two of the most respected names in motorcycling—came together for this product. Sena’s communicator tech pairs impressively well with HJC’s helmet design. The result is a tightly integrated, high-quality experience.

For this review, the unit was tested with an HJC RPHA 71 Carbon helmet, where it really shined.

Tech Specs

  • Bluetooth 5.0

  • Mesh Intercom (up to 6 riders, 2km range)

  • Bluetooth Intercom (up to 4 riders)

  • Universal intercom compatibility

  • Music sharing

  • Audio multitasking

  • HD speakers

  • Advanced noise control

  • 13-hour battery life

  • FM radio

  • Voice assistant access

  • Companion app

  • Compatible with: RPHA 71, RPHA 91, RPHA 31, i71

Sena 21B vs 50B

Similarities:

  • Bluetooth 5.0+

  • FM radio

  • Voice prompts

  • App support

  • Simple setup

Differences:

  • 50B has dual control units, voice command, and Mesh

  • 21B lasts 22 hours; 50B lasts 13

  • 21B better for smaller groups; 50B ideal for larger groups or hands-free operation

Build Quality & Integration – 95%

The 50B is clearly a premium unit, with smart design choices and strong materials. Integration with HJC helmets is seamless—dedicated speaker pockets, cable routing, and microphone placement all make for a clean install with no mess.

Water resistance is acceptable, but an official IP rating (like Cardo’s IP67) would’ve been appreciated.

Sound Quality – 80%

Sound is crisp and clear for conversations, but lacks bass and richness compared to competitors. At higher speeds, audio can feel slightly tinny. Microphone performance is excellent, thanks to noise-cancellation—no wind or engine noise transmits during intercom use.

The unit benefits from in-app sound setting adjustments. Without proper configuration, multitasking features (like listening to music while in intercom mode) can underperform.

Ease of Use – 80%

After a short learning curve, operation becomes intuitive. The unit powers on/off quickly and doesn’t have a loud startup jingle. Pairing is simple, but requires using the dedicated SMART HJC app (not Sena’s generic one).

Voice commands work well but require clear speech, especially at speed. Accidental button presses on both sides of the helmet can be a distraction.

Mesh & Bluetooth Intercom

Mesh works well for seamless, group-based comms. Manufacturer data conflicts on whether it supports 6 or 24 users, but real-world testing confirms smooth operation for smaller groups.

Bluetooth intercom works as expected. Pairing with non-Sena or non-HJC devices (e.g., Cardo) is possible, though bridging between systems must be initiated on the other device.

Battery Life – 95%

The 50B lasts 13 hours per charge. Charging is convenient and doesn’t require removing the unit—just plug into the port located at the rear. Unlike some competitors, the unit doesn’t give a voice-based battery status on shutdown—you have to request it manually.

Value for Money – 80%

While not cheap, the SMART HJC 50B justifies its price with strong performance and outstanding helmet integration. The only real drawback is that it’s only compatible with a limited number of HJC helmets. Riders with multiple helmet brands might find this limiting.

Final Verdict

If you own a compatible HJC helmet and want a sleek, integrated, high-performing communicator, the SMART HJC 50B is one of the best options available. It’s not flawless—sound could be improved, and broader compatibility would help—but it’s solid, reliable, and built for real-world riding.

Master the Art of Metered Parking Downtown

by Road Emergencies & What to Do

Navigating downtown can feel like a chore—not to mention the added stress of finding metered parking, understanding payment methods, and avoiding tickets. Whether you’re heading to a game, grabbing dinner, or commuting to work, metered parking is often a necessary part of city life. But don’t worry! This guide breaks it all down for you, offering practical tips to make your trip stress-free.

From finding spots quickly to understanding local regulations, we’ve got everything you need to know so you can focus on enjoying your time—not stressing over parking violations.

Understanding Parking Meters

Metered parking is common in busy areas with high demand. Here’s how they work and what you should know about payment and enforcement:

Payment Options

  • Coins: Classic yet reliable. Always good to have some quarters on hand for older meters.

  • Cards: Most meters now accept debit and credit cards—just follow the prompts on the screen.

  • Parking Apps: Many areas support apps like ParkMobile, offering a seamless, contactless way to pay and monitor your time.

Operating Hours and Rates

Meters typically operate from 7 AM to 11 PM, Monday through Saturday, but this may vary by zone. Rate updates happen occasionally, so always check the meter for current pricing. On special event days or during street cleaning, stricter enforcement may apply.

Watch the Signs

Don’t assume! Read all posted signage around a parking meter. Time limits, rush hour rules, and temporary restrictions are all important to avoid violations—or worse, a towed vehicle.

Tips for Finding Parking Spots

Finding parking downtown during busy times can be frustrating. Use these strategies to increase your chances:

  • Use Parking Apps: Apps like ParkMobile or SpotAngels can help you find, reserve, and even extend your parking remotely.

  • Know Peak Hours: Avoid high-traffic times like weekday lunch hours or before/after large events.

  • Check Road Conditions: Construction or closures can limit available spaces—check local traffic info ahead of time.

Paying for Parking: Step-by-Step

Confused by parking meters? Here’s a quick guide:

Coins or Card Payments

  1. Insert coins or swipe your card at the meter.

  2. Follow the on-screen instructions to set your parking duration.

  3. Confirm your payment and print your receipt if needed.

Using a Parking App

  1. Open the app and sign in.

  2. Enter the meter’s zone number, usually displayed on signage.

  3. Set your desired time and pay digitally.

  4. Get notified when your time is about to expire and extend from your phone if needed.

This method eliminates the hassle of running back to feed the meter.

Avoiding Parking Tickets

A parking ticket can ruin your day. Here’s how to avoid one:

  • Track Your Time: Set a phone alarm or rely on app notifications to avoid overstaying.

  • Read Every Sign: Some restrictions aren’t just about time—they may prohibit parking during events or street cleaning.

  • Stay Clear of Prohibited Zones: Double-check curb markings and special-use signs.

What If You Get a Ticket?

Mistakes happen. If you receive a ticket, pay or dispute it as soon as possible to avoid late fees. Most cities allow online payment through municipal websites.

Free Parking Options

You might not always have to pay for parking if you plan ahead.

  • Free Meter Days: Public holidays and special local events may come with free parking. Check official sources for updates.

  • Residential Areas: Look for nearby streets without permit requirements. Just be sure to verify any posted signage.

  • Customer Parking: Some businesses offer free parking while you’re on-site—always ask!

  • Alternative Transport: Consider carpooling, biking, or using a ride-share service if parking seems like too much of a hassle.

If Your Car Gets Towed

It’s frustrating, but manageable. Here’s what to do:

  1. Locate Your Vehicle: Use the city’s official online vehicle locator tool to find where your car is being held.

  2. Know the Fees: Expect a base tow fee and additional daily storage charges. Picking up your car quickly helps minimize costs.

  3. Bring Documents: You’ll need valid ID and proof of ownership (like registration or title).

  4. Have the Right Payment: Some impounds may only take cash. Verify ahead so you’re not caught off guard.

Acting quickly can save you time and additional expense.

Key Takeaways

Metered parking doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding how the system works, using parking apps, and reading signage closely, you can avoid violations and enjoy your day without interrupt

Your Complete Guide to Choosing the Right Towing Equipment

by Road Emergencies & What to Do

Personal towing is growing in popularity across Indiana. Whether you’re hauling a boat to Lake Monroe, towing a pop-up camper to Brown County State Park, or moving equipment for a home project, setting up a safe and legal towing system is more important than ever.

With the right equipment and knowledge, Indiana’s roads—and weekend adventures—are wide open. This guide will walk you through how to choose the right towing equipment, follow Indiana-specific regulations, and stay safe behind the wheel.

Understanding the Basics of Towing Equipment

Before you shop for towing gear, it’s helpful to understand a few key terms:

  • Tongue Weight (TW): The downward force your trailer applies to the hitch.

  • Towing Capacity: The maximum weight your vehicle can tow safely, as specified by the manufacturer.

  • Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR): The total weight of your vehicle when fully loaded with cargo and passengers.

  • Trailer Towing: The act of pulling a trailer with a vehicle using a hitch.

  • Tow Hitch: A device installed on your vehicle that connects to and supports the trailer.

These terms form the foundation for selecting the proper gear for your towing needs.

Common Towing Equipment You May Need

A well-prepared towing setup typically includes the following components:

1. Ball Mounts

These connect your tow hitch to the trailer. Adjustable models make it easier to tow different types of trailers with varying tongue heights.

2. Tow Hitches

A strong, properly installed hitch is essential. For heavier loads, consider a weight-distributing hitch, which helps balance the load between the vehicle and trailer.

3. Safety Chains

Legally required in Indiana, safety chains act as a backup if the hitch connection fails. Always cross the chains under the hitch and attach them securely.

4. Lighting and Electrical Systems

Indiana law mandates functional lights on trailers. Brake lights, turn signals, and running lights must all work correctly. Reliable wiring harnesses and controllers from brands like Tekonsha and Hopkins are recommended.

How to Match Equipment to Your Vehicle and Trailer

Here’s how to ensure your gear matches your setup:

  • Verify Your Vehicle’s Towing Capacity: This can be found in the owner’s manual or manufacturer’s website.

  • Know Your Trailer’s GVWR: This helps ensure you stay within the vehicle’s limits.

  • Use the Correct Ball Size: Common sizes include 1-7/8″, 2″, and 2-5/16″. Choose the right match for your trailer coupler.

  • Adjust for Your Activity: Different types of towing (e.g., boat trailers vs. cargo haulers) may require different hitch strengths and accessories.

Example: If you’re towing a jet ski or fishing boat, your equipment must be rated above the total weight of the loaded trailer and include functioning lighting, brake control, and safety chains.

Towing Laws and Requirements in Indiana

Indiana has specific towing laws designed to keep drivers and roadways safe. Here are some important regulations to follow:

  • Braking Systems: Required for trailers weighing over 3,000 lbs.

  • Safety Chains: Mandatory on all trailers.

  • Lighting Requirements: Trailers must have working taillights, brake lights, and turn signals.

  • Trailer Width: Cannot exceed 8 feet 6 inches without a special permit.

  • Speed Limits: There are no specific lower limits for vehicles towing trailers in Indiana—follow posted limits and adjust for safety.

For the most current information, refer to the Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).

Towing Safety Tips

Personal towing can be simple and safe if you’re prepared. Follow these best practices:

  • Practice First: Drive with your trailer in an open area to get comfortable turning, stopping, and backing up.

  • Even Load Distribution: Prevent trailer sway by loading cargo evenly.

  • Check Equipment Before Every Trip: Inspect your hitch, ball mount, chains, and lighting for signs of wear or malfunction.

  • Drive Cautiously: Allow extra braking distance and take turns slowly.

  • Stay Weather-Aware: Wet or windy conditions can increase the risk of trailer sway.

Routine Maintenance for Towing Gear

Towing equipment needs regular attention to stay safe and functional:

  • Inspect Components Frequently: Look for corrosion, cracks, or loose bolts on your hitch and trailer.

  • Test Your Lights: Ensure all trailer lights are working properly before every trip.

  • Grease Moving Parts: Lubricate the hitch ball and coupler to reduce wear and improve operation.

  • Replace Weak Chains: Don’t take chances with rusty or undersized safety chains.

When to Call a Professional Towing Service

Even with the best planning, there are situations where professional assistance is the safest option. Call a certified towing provider if:

  • You experience a mechanical breakdown.

  • Your trailer is too large or heavy for your current vehicle.

  • You’re unsure how to safely hook up or operate your trailer setup.

Professionals are trained to manage towing scenarios efficiently and safely, especially in emergencies or when dealing with oversized equipment.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re hauling gear for fun or necessity, towing opens up new possibilities for travel and adventure in Indiana. Choosing the right equipment, following state laws, and staying safety-minded will ensure a smooth ride every time.

When in doubt, reach out to a qualified towing expert who can guide you through setup, safety, and gear selection—so you can hit the road with total confidence.

Electric Himalayans, Hydrogen Kawasakis and an $80,000 MV – Oh My!

by Innovation on Two Wheels

This week, we’ve got a plethora of brands slowly opening up their offerings in anticipation of the fall season:

  • Royal Enfield has released coverage of their electric Himalayan in North India via social media, proving the machine is on the way.

  • Kawasaki’s hydrogen motorcycle is back as “Mission H24,” making another appearance in Europe.

  • KTM’s new models are rolling out globally, with the brand working to stay transparent about model debut timelines.

  • MV Agusta reclaims its space in the market as a privately-owned marque with the release of the ultra-premium 1000 Ago.

Let’s dive into the highlights.

Upcoming Models: Royal Enfield’s Electric Himalayan

Footage from North India Confirms the Incoming EV

Royal Enfield is ramping up efforts with its electric Himalayan, known as the Him-E. Recent footage shows the machine in testing through the mountainous Ladakh region, alongside the company’s design chief and CEO—suggesting the project is nearing a significant milestone.

Details so far:

  • Larger 21-inch front wheel and aggressive knobby tires

  • One-piece seat, no visible fuel tank—typical for an EV platform

  • Twin battery packs housed in a central trellis-style frame

  • External and internal cooling fins for thermal management

Expect the internal combustion twin-cylinder Himalayan to launch for the 2026 model year, with the electric variant likely seeing updates and possibly a release between late this year and next.

The Hydrogen Hype: Kawasaki’s “Mission H24” Returns

Hydrogen-Powered Superbike Demonstrated in Europe

Kawasaki continues to pursue alternative energy with its hydrogen combustion motorcycle, a product of the HySE (Hydrogen Small mobility & Engine technology Association) partnership. The machine, based on a supercharged Ninja platform, uses hydrogen stored in rear-mounted tanks.

Key points:

  • Virtually zero emissions, only water vapor

  • Developed for high-performance applications where battery range is limited

  • Recent demonstration lap took place at a European endurance event

This approach offers a promising alternative to battery-electric motorcycles, especially where long-range and quick refueling are crucial.

KTM: 2025 Models Rolling Out Now

Models Include: 390 Enduro R, 390 Adventure R, 390 SMC R

KTM is launching its updated lineup with clear scheduling by region. Here’s a breakdown of when to expect each model:

  • KTM 390 SMC R:

    • May: North America, Asia

    • June–August: Europe, UK, South Africa, Oceania

  • KTM 390 Enduro R:

    • May: North America, Asia

    • June–August: Europe, UK, South Africa, Oceania

  • KTM 390 Adventure R:

    • May–June: North America, Asia

    • July–August: Europe, UK, South Africa, Oceania

  • KTM 125 SMC R & Enduro R:

    • July: Europe, UK, Asia

  • KTM 390 Adventure X:

    • May–August rollout across all major global regions

Despite past financial bumps, KTM appears committed to delivering these bikes with transparency and global coordination.

MV Agusta Rises Again with the SuperVeloce 1000 Ago

Limited to 83 Units Globally – Honoring Giacomo Agostini

To mark its 80th anniversary, MV Agusta unveils the Superveloce 1000 Ago—a jaw-dropping tribute to legendary racer Giacomo Agostini. The bike showcases:

  • Full carbon fiber bodywork in Fire Red Matt and Magnum Silver Matt

  • Four-cylinder inline engine with race-tuned electronics

  • Öhlins electronic suspension and Brembo brakes

  • 5-year factory warranty

  • Optional racing suit and helmet inspired by Ago’s gear

Each bike is signed by Agostini himself, with the $80,098 MSRP reflecting both exclusivity and heritage.

Final Thoughts

From Royal Enfield’s rugged EV testing to Kawasaki’s hydrogen combustion experiments, and from KTM’s steady global rollout to MV Agusta’s elite collectible machine, this week’s news confirms one thing: the motorcycle world is evolving fast—and diversely.

Whether you’re a trail-loving adventurer, an eco-minded urban commuter, or a high-end collector, the horizon is buzzing with potential.

Media sourced from Cycle World, Kawasaki, KTM, and MV Agusta.

Ducati’s “Knight and Steed” Livery for Mugello, Distillery Moves Into Harley HQ

by Innovation on Two Wheels

These days, it don’t take much to open the news and grimace, which is why shiny stuff in the Powersports industry is becoming an increasingly attractive read; today, the weekly offerings include the following: 

Harley-Davidson has given 73,000 square feet of their headquarters building over to a distillery. 
Honda is getting ready to give us their CRF300F!
Both The National Powersports Dealer Association (NPDA) and Powersports Rep Association (PRA) are partnering up to increase ease of access and communications between dealer, rep and vendors.
Kove has given us a very nice 450RR to loook at; do you think they will release the inline-four to American shores?
Ducati has gone full Italian Renaissance with a fresh new livery scheme for Team Lenovo and their bikes. 

Let’s start with Harley’s new roommate, shall we?

Harley-Davidson HQ Makes Room for Distillery

A view of the Central Standard Craft Distillery’s new location in the Harley-Davidson headquarters. Media sourced from the Central Standard Craft Distillery.

Central Standard Craft Distillery to Take Up 73,000 Square Feet of HD Floor

Harley’s not had the easiest time of things, and while we weren’t even going to mention the way that their CEO, Jochen Seitz, stepped down after his contracted years were up. 

Financially, it is safe to say that Harley-Davidson is no longer making an easy surplus from its total winnings, as evidenced by the following gatherings about the ‘net: 

Global motorcycle shipments were down 17% in 2024 compared to 2023, while HDMC revenue was down 15%. (via RideApart).
Global retail sales of new motorcycles were down 7% for the full year 2024, with Q4 alone seeing a 15% decline globally and a 13% decline in North America (Via Harley-Davidson).
Q1 2025 consolidated revenue fell 23% year-over-year, and global retail sales dropped 21%, with North America declining 24% (Via Alnvest, May 1, 2025).

Whether the above is the catalyst for Harley’s new move to find a cool roomie for their headquarters is left to be seen, but we’re assuming it’s got something to do with it. 

A view of the Central Standard Craft Distillery’s new location in the Harley-Davidson headquarters. Media sourced from the Central Standard Craft Distillery.

According to RideApart, Central Standard Craft Distillery has purchased a substantial 73,000 square-foot section of Harley-Davidson’s historic main campus just outside of Milwaukee, with intentions to open their doors next Q3. The building was previously purchased along with land for a $20 million park – and, back in 2024, Jochen Zeitz told everyone that Harley-Davidson was “happy to have its campus as a community anchor,” imparting the following at the location’s ribbon-cutting ceremony:

“We could not be more proud to be part of the Near West Side, to be part of the community here in Milwaukee. A lot has changed in 120 years, but there’s one that hasn’t, that won’t change ever. And that is [that] Juneau Avenue is our home.”

– Jochen Zeitz, previous CEO, Harley-Davidson (Urban Milwaukee)

As for Central Standard Craft Distillery, they’re naturally quite pleased to have the space to themselves, having been quoted to have mentioned that the space will allow the distillery to grow 20 times their current size – not a small feat, nor a bad one, as evidenced by the Co-Founder’s comments below: 

“With this purchase, we’re excited to deepen our roots in the city we love, and to show our commitment and investment in the Milwaukee community.”

– Pat McQuillan, Co-Founder and President, Central Standard Craft Distillery (RideApart)

We’re super happy for both parties and will be keeping an eye on how Harley’s “next phase of investment at Juneau Avenue” plays out in the coming years. 

For a full deep dive into Harley-Davidson’s HQ movement, be sure to check out the following article on Urban Milwaukee: 

Harley-Davidson Reveals Plans for Future of Corporate Campus

Fast Filings: Honda Preps to Release CRF300F to America

Media sourced from Rust Sports.

Air-Cooled Model Slotted for 2026

Our beloved Big Red is officially readying to give us a new air-cooled machine!

Christened the 2026 CRF300F, this new trail bike recently showed up in filings from the California Air Resources Board (CARB), proving that an arrival to US markets is confirmed and now simply a matter of waiting until the unit is debuted. 

Based on these filings – sourced by the incomparable Dennis Chung at Motorcycle.com – we know the following: 

Honda’s upcoming CRF300F is fuelled by a 293cc fuel-injected, air-cooled single-cylinder engine.
Power is expected to be around 24 horsepower @ 7,500 rpm and 20 lb-ft. of torque @ 5,750 rpm.
The CRF300F will be paired to a six-speed gearbox with obligatories including a linked rear shock, a telescopic fork, and a single petal-style front brake disc.
Suggestions within the paperwork guess at the appearance of an oil cooler and a new aluminum swingarm.
Bodywork will remain classic to Honda’s CRF line. 

As for it’s placement within the industry, Honda’s incubating CRF300F will likely slide in right around where Honda currently shows off their lovely – but as yet not updated – CRF250F. 

Guessing the CRF300F’s debut is a bit tricky; Chung presumes that the machine will likely debut sometime this summer, while we wonder what Honda has coming for their attendance at EICMA. Thus far, we’ve seen the return of the CBR600RR to Big Red’s European lineup after a six-year hiatus (2023), and the arrival of a world-first high-performance V3 engine coupled with new EV models (2024).

Only time will tell!

For a full dive into the details of the incoming 2026 Honda CRF300F, be sure to head over to Motorcycle.com: 

New 2026 Honda CRF300F Coming to America

Industry Insider: PRA and NPDA Partner Up for the Ultimate Dealer-Vendor Connection

The PRA and NDPA. Media sourced from PRA.

“A Rising Tide Floats All Boats”

This article’s about to feature more acronyms than leather vests at Sturgis, so I’ll leave the following below: 

PRA = The Powersports Rep Association 

NPDA = National Powersports Dealer Association

For those of you unfamiliar with either of these organizations, think of the the Powersports Rep Association (PRA) like a helpful group specifically for the people who sell motorcycles, ATVs, side-by-sides, and all the gear to the dealerships. These guys are the ones that help our reps be awesome at their jobs and build trust across the whole powersports world. 

Then we have the NPDA. These gentlefolk are present to support, educate, and speak for powersports dealerships, helping them grow and making the whole industry more efficient financially beneficial for both the dealer and the rider looking to get a new machine into the garage. 

You can see why these two collaborating together is such a power move, yes? 

Excellent, and big congrats to both the PRA and the NPDA!

According to CycleNews, the partnership will allow talks between the PRA and NPDA; in sharing information about their processes and training methods, the customer’s experience will be that much better at a dealership because the quality of the service center’s… well, service… will be at an all-time high. 

Brilliant. 

Naturally, both sides of the deal are more than excited to see what this partnership brings about: 

“By advocating for a healthy and personal partnership between the dealer, rep and vendor, we will only strengthen our business relationship resulting in a more professional profitable powersports industry as a whole. We are better together.”

– Bob Kee, Chairman, the National Powersports Dealer Association (NPDA) (CycleNews)

“An open communication pathway directly from rep/brand to the dealer network is something this industry has been missing for some time. We vow to make the effort in this collaboration to provide premier certified sales professionals in the powersports industry that will align with the Dealerships’ values.”

– Industry Vet, Tim Calhoun, the he Powersports Rep Association (PRA) (CycleNews)

The wBW team is so incredibly excited for this partnership; more than ever before, manufacturers are in need of solid processes and services to help connect to the customer, especially considering the volatility of our current markets and the changes happening within our good Powersports industry. We will always support moves toward a unified and profitable future for riders countrywide.

For more details on this strategic new collaboration, be sure to read the full report on CycleNews:

PRA Partners With NPDA

Kove Refreshes 450RR for New Model Year

A view of Kove Moto’s 450RR. Media sourced from Kove Moto.

Panigale-Esque Looker Could Be Headed for American Markets

Want a Ducati Panigale, but you’re really just tied to the aesthetics? Kove might be able to help with that… that is, if they release their new inline-four beastie to US markets. 

According to a recent report from CycleWorld, Kove’s 450RR has appeared in type approval documents that prove Kove has a larger-capacity engine in mind for their entry-level supersport. We’re told that the cubic capacity will likely be somewhere between 600cc and 800cc, based on the 450RR’s design, and that the official result of all this hullaballoo will be debuted next year, sometime in 2026.

Anytime a bike brand from the Far Eastern Hemisphere makes a supersport bike and uprates the thing to a larger capacity, there is huge potential for the machine to enter markets with bigger bikes. In this case, our fingers are crossed for the Americas, as it would be fantastic to have the competitor to Kawasaki’s ZX-4RR on the same track.

On to the bike’s personality. Perks of owning one of these bad boys include Bologna-style winglets, hooded headlights, and a fully adjustable suspension set complete with radial-mount four-piston calipers. The whole thing is set to buzz about around 70 hp @ 13,000 rpm with 28.8 lb.-ft. of yank available @ 9000 rpm.

We can’t wait for this bike to be debuted so that we can see if there’s potential to bring a 450RR to American soil. 

For a detailed look at the Kove 450RR update and what it could mean for Western markets, be sure to check out the full article on CycleWorld: 

Updated Kove 450RR

Knights and Steeds: Ducati Decks Out MotoGP Lenovo Team in Italian Renaissance Leathers

A view of the “steeds” belonging to Francesco Bagnaia (#63) and Marc Márquez (#93) for Mugello. Media sourced from Ducati.

New Livery Inspires “Knights and Steeds” for Mugello

There’s one thing I haven’t really seen in the Powersports industry – like, ever – and that’s a collection that marries the concepts of motorcycles being similar to horses. In fairness, while both sport reasonably slim silhouettes on pavement and both show off horsepower (snort), the industries are nowhere near each other in similarity.

Perhaps this is why Ducati took such a heavy lean toward the “Italian Renaissance” when they premiered their brand-new livery set for their Ducati Lenovo MotoGP team. 

According to coverage from Ducati’s press release, our favorite Bologna-based bike brand has presented a truly tasty set of leathers for the Italian Grand Prix at Mugello. This ultra-special  livery celebrates the very essence of chivalry in a bygone era, with both Francesco Bagnaia (#63) and Marc Márquez (#93) transformed into what the press release calls “modern-day knights.”

Ducati’s move behind this collection is twofold: 

Ducati has a tendency of expressing themselves at their country’s grid effort at Mugello, with 2024’s “Azzurro” homage coming to mind. 
Merging technology and beauty is Ducati’s very reason for existing, and they feel the Renaissance is the perfect era to embody both those qualities in their ethos.

But back to the collection. 

Marc Márquez (#93) in their new Mugello livery. Media sourced from Ducati.

We’re told that this livery set was the responsibility – and pleasure – of renowned designer Aldo Drudi and historian Marcello Simonetta, who in turn pulled from two iconic Renaissance figures – Leonardo da Vinci, the genius, and Niccolò Machiavelli, the macabre “thinker” – by reinterpreting Leonardo’s famous “Ancient Captain” drawing by showing off a lion and a fox. This harkens the teaching’s of Machiavelli’s most prolific work, “The Prince”: to win, one needs both the strength of the lion and the cunning of the fox!

How very poetic, how utterly Ducati.

To see more details and the stunning imagery of this unique Renaissance-inspired livery, be sure to check out Ducati’s official press release: 

Renaissance genius and Ducati vision come together in a unique tribute for the Italian Grand Prix

 

​

These days, it don’t take much to open the news and grimace, which is why shiny stuff in the Powersports industry is becoming an increasingly attractive read; today, the weekly offerings include the following: 

Harley-Davidson has given 73,000 square feet of their headquarters building over to a distillery. 
Honda is getting ready to give us their CRF300F!
Both The National Powersports Dealer Association (NPDA) and Powersports Rep Association (PRA) are partnering up to increase ease of access and communications between dealer, rep and vendors.
Kove has given us a very nice 450RR to loook at; do you think they will release the inline-four to American shores?
Ducati has gone full Italian Renaissance with a fresh new livery scheme for Team Lenovo and their bikes. 

Let’s start with Harley’s new roommate, shall we?

Harley-Davidson HQ Makes Room for Distillery

A view of the Central Standard Craft Distillery’s new location in the Harley-Davidson headquarters. Media sourced from the Central Standard Craft Distillery.

Central Standard Craft Distillery to Take Up 73,000 Square Feet of HD Floor

Harley’s not had the easiest time of things, and while we weren’t even going to mention the way that their CEO, Jochen Seitz, stepped down after his contracted years were up. 

Financially, it is safe to say that Harley-Davidson is no longer making an easy surplus from its total winnings, as evidenced by the following gatherings about the ‘net: 

Global motorcycle shipments were down 17% in 2024 compared to 2023, while HDMC revenue was down 15%. (via RideApart).
Global retail sales of new motorcycles were down 7% for the full year 2024, with Q4 alone seeing a 15% decline globally and a 13% decline in North America (Via Harley-Davidson).
Q1 2025 consolidated revenue fell 23% year-over-year, and global retail sales dropped 21%, with North America declining 24% (Via Alnvest, May 1, 2025).

Whether the above is the catalyst for Harley’s new move to find a cool roomie for their headquarters is left to be seen, but we’re assuming it’s got something to do with it. 

A view of the Central Standard Craft Distillery’s new location in the Harley-Davidson headquarters. Media sourced from the Central Standard Craft Distillery.

According to RideApart, Central Standard Craft Distillery has purchased a substantial 73,000 square-foot section of Harley-Davidson’s historic main campus just outside of Milwaukee, with intentions to open their doors next Q3. The building was previously purchased along with land for a $20 million park – and, back in 2024, Jochen Zeitz told everyone that Harley-Davidson was “happy to have its campus as a community anchor,” imparting the following at the location’s ribbon-cutting ceremony:

“We could not be more proud to be part of the Near West Side, to be part of the community here in Milwaukee. A lot has changed in 120 years, but there’s one that hasn’t, that won’t change ever. And that is [that] Juneau Avenue is our home.”

– Jochen Zeitz, previous CEO, Harley-Davidson (Urban Milwaukee)

As for Central Standard Craft Distillery, they’re naturally quite pleased to have the space to themselves, having been quoted to have mentioned that the space will allow the distillery to grow 20 times their current size – not a small feat, nor a bad one, as evidenced by the Co-Founder’s comments below: 

“With this purchase, we’re excited to deepen our roots in the city we love, and to show our commitment and investment in the Milwaukee community.”

– Pat McQuillan, Co-Founder and President, Central Standard Craft Distillery (RideApart)

We’re super happy for both parties and will be keeping an eye on how Harley’s “next phase of investment at Juneau Avenue” plays out in the coming years. 

For a full deep dive into Harley-Davidson’s HQ movement, be sure to check out the following article on Urban Milwaukee: 

Harley-Davidson Reveals Plans for Future of Corporate Campus

Fast Filings: Honda Preps to Release CRF300F to America

Media sourced from Rust Sports.

Air-Cooled Model Slotted for 2026

Our beloved Big Red is officially readying to give us a new air-cooled machine!

Christened the 2026 CRF300F, this new trail bike recently showed up in filings from the California Air Resources Board (CARB), proving that an arrival to US markets is confirmed and now simply a matter of waiting until the unit is debuted. 

Based on these filings – sourced by the incomparable Dennis Chung at Motorcycle.com – we know the following: 

Honda’s upcoming CRF300F is fuelled by a 293cc fuel-injected, air-cooled single-cylinder engine.
Power is expected to be around 24 horsepower @ 7,500 rpm and 20 lb-ft. of torque @ 5,750 rpm.
The CRF300F will be paired to a six-speed gearbox with obligatories including a linked rear shock, a telescopic fork, and a single petal-style front brake disc.
Suggestions within the paperwork guess at the appearance of an oil cooler and a new aluminum swingarm.
Bodywork will remain classic to Honda’s CRF line. 

As for it’s placement within the industry, Honda’s incubating CRF300F will likely slide in right around where Honda currently shows off their lovely – but as yet not updated – CRF250F. 

Guessing the CRF300F’s debut is a bit tricky; Chung presumes that the machine will likely debut sometime this summer, while we wonder what Honda has coming for their attendance at EICMA. Thus far, we’ve seen the return of the CBR600RR to Big Red’s European lineup after a six-year hiatus (2023), and the arrival of a world-first high-performance V3 engine coupled with new EV models (2024).

Only time will tell!

For a full dive into the details of the incoming 2026 Honda CRF300F, be sure to head over to Motorcycle.com: 

New 2026 Honda CRF300F Coming to America

Industry Insider: PRA and NPDA Partner Up for the Ultimate Dealer-Vendor Connection

The PRA and NDPA. Media sourced from PRA.

“A Rising Tide Floats All Boats”

This article’s about to feature more acronyms than leather vests at Sturgis, so I’ll leave the following below: 

PRA = The Powersports Rep Association 

NPDA = National Powersports Dealer Association

For those of you unfamiliar with either of these organizations, think of the the Powersports Rep Association (PRA) like a helpful group specifically for the people who sell motorcycles, ATVs, side-by-sides, and all the gear to the dealerships. These guys are the ones that help our reps be awesome at their jobs and build trust across the whole powersports world. 

Then we have the NPDA. These gentlefolk are present to support, educate, and speak for powersports dealerships, helping them grow and making the whole industry more efficient financially beneficial for both the dealer and the rider looking to get a new machine into the garage. 

You can see why these two collaborating together is such a power move, yes? 

Excellent, and big congrats to both the PRA and the NPDA!

According to CycleNews, the partnership will allow talks between the PRA and NPDA; in sharing information about their processes and training methods, the customer’s experience will be that much better at a dealership because the quality of the service center’s… well, service… will be at an all-time high. 

Brilliant. 

Naturally, both sides of the deal are more than excited to see what this partnership brings about: 

“By advocating for a healthy and personal partnership between the dealer, rep and vendor, we will only strengthen our business relationship resulting in a more professional profitable powersports industry as a whole. We are better together.”

– Bob Kee, Chairman, the National Powersports Dealer Association (NPDA) (CycleNews)

“An open communication pathway directly from rep/brand to the dealer network is something this industry has been missing for some time. We vow to make the effort in this collaboration to provide premier certified sales professionals in the powersports industry that will align with the Dealerships’ values.”

– Industry Vet, Tim Calhoun, the he Powersports Rep Association (PRA) (CycleNews)

The wBW team is so incredibly excited for this partnership; more than ever before, manufacturers are in need of solid processes and services to help connect to the customer, especially considering the volatility of our current markets and the changes happening within our good Powersports industry. We will always support moves toward a unified and profitable future for riders countrywide.

For more details on this strategic new collaboration, be sure to read the full report on CycleNews:

PRA Partners With NPDA

Kove Refreshes 450RR for New Model Year

A view of Kove Moto’s 450RR. Media sourced from Kove Moto.

Panigale-Esque Looker Could Be Headed for American Markets

Want a Ducati Panigale, but you’re really just tied to the aesthetics? Kove might be able to help with that… that is, if they release their new inline-four beastie to US markets. 

According to a recent report from CycleWorld, Kove’s 450RR has appeared in type approval documents that prove Kove has a larger-capacity engine in mind for their entry-level supersport. We’re told that the cubic capacity will likely be somewhere between 600cc and 800cc, based on the 450RR’s design, and that the official result of all this hullaballoo will be debuted next year, sometime in 2026.

Anytime a bike brand from the Far Eastern Hemisphere makes a supersport bike and uprates the thing to a larger capacity, there is huge potential for the machine to enter markets with bigger bikes. In this case, our fingers are crossed for the Americas, as it would be fantastic to have the competitor to Kawasaki’s ZX-4RR on the same track.

On to the bike’s personality. Perks of owning one of these bad boys include Bologna-style winglets, hooded headlights, and a fully adjustable suspension set complete with radial-mount four-piston calipers. The whole thing is set to buzz about around 70 hp @ 13,000 rpm with 28.8 lb.-ft. of yank available @ 9000 rpm.

We can’t wait for this bike to be debuted so that we can see if there’s potential to bring a 450RR to American soil. 

For a detailed look at the Kove 450RR update and what it could mean for Western markets, be sure to check out the full article on CycleWorld: 

Updated Kove 450RR

Knights and Steeds: Ducati Decks Out MotoGP Lenovo Team in Italian Renaissance Leathers

A view of the “steeds” belonging to Francesco Bagnaia (#63) and Marc Márquez (#93) for Mugello. Media sourced from Ducati.

New Livery Inspires “Knights and Steeds” for Mugello

There’s one thing I haven’t really seen in the Powersports industry – like, ever – and that’s a collection that marries the concepts of motorcycles being similar to horses. In fairness, while both sport reasonably slim silhouettes on pavement and both show off horsepower (snort), the industries are nowhere near each other in similarity.

Perhaps this is why Ducati took such a heavy lean toward the “Italian Renaissance” when they premiered their brand-new livery set for their Ducati Lenovo MotoGP team. 

According to coverage from Ducati’s press release, our favorite Bologna-based bike brand has presented a truly tasty set of leathers for the Italian Grand Prix at Mugello. This ultra-special  livery celebrates the very essence of chivalry in a bygone era, with both Francesco Bagnaia (#63) and Marc Márquez (#93) transformed into what the press release calls “modern-day knights.”

Ducati’s move behind this collection is twofold: 

Ducati has a tendency of expressing themselves at their country’s grid effort at Mugello, with 2024’s “Azzurro” homage coming to mind. 
Merging technology and beauty is Ducati’s very reason for existing, and they feel the Renaissance is the perfect era to embody both those qualities in their ethos.

But back to the collection. 

Marc Márquez (#93) in their new Mugello livery. Media sourced from Ducati.

We’re told that this livery set was the responsibility – and pleasure – of renowned designer Aldo Drudi and historian Marcello Simonetta, who in turn pulled from two iconic Renaissance figures – Leonardo da Vinci, the genius, and Niccolò Machiavelli, the macabre “thinker” – by reinterpreting Leonardo’s famous “Ancient Captain” drawing by showing off a lion and a fox. This harkens the teaching’s of Machiavelli’s most prolific work, “The Prince”: to win, one needs both the strength of the lion and the cunning of the fox!

How very poetic, how utterly Ducati.

To see more details and the stunning imagery of this unique Renaissance-inspired livery, be sure to check out Ducati’s official press release: 

Renaissance genius and Ducati vision come together in a unique tribute for the Italian Grand Prix

 

Sidi ARX Air Riding Shoes Review

by Innovation on Two Wheels

Breakdown
With comfort at the forefront, Sidi’s ARX Air Riding Shoes are a great option for riders who are looking for a shoe that works both on and off the bike. While the shoe may lack armor inserts, D30 ankle protection, heel, and a rip-stop toe provides more protection than traditional streetwear. The shoes sport a timeless high-top design that’s sure to pair well with riding jeans, hoodies, and more.

Design

Build Quality

Size, Fit & Comfort

Protection

Value for Money

Pros
Timeless look that blends with most streetwear-inspired gear
Exceptional comfort both on and off the bike
Rip-stop toe and D30 ankle
High traction rubber sole keeps your feet firmly planted on the controls
Available in large sizes for riders with big feet

Cons
Reflective elements clash with the overall design
No protective inserts throughout the shoe
Only two color choices
Fraying stitch brings into question the overall quality of the shoe
The price point is high to comparable riding shoes

4.1

Review Summary

If you’re looking for the main takeaways from this review, here is my summary of the ARX Air Riding Shoes by Sidi:

The Sidi ARX Air Riding Shoes retail for $179.99 USD
They are available in two colorways

Black/White
Castian/Bronze

The ARX Air Riding Shoes have a near-perfect streetwear-inspired design, with the only flaw being the clashing reflective elements on the heel
The black fabric is extremely easy to keep clean, and the white rubber heel can be kept looking new with the use of a magic eraser
The shoe feels high-quality overall with the exception of the stitching on the shift gear protection
The stitching began to fray after one ride, but has not progressed much further over the course of two months
Sold in EU sizing, which may vary slightly from US sizes
Manufactured and stocked in large sizes such as US 14 and 15
Exceptional comfort both on and off the bike
Protection is minimal, but still better than wearing street shoes
D30 ankle protection and rip-stop material across the toes
The shoes have a high price point in comparison to comparable riding shoes, but the value can be justified by how comfortable they are

Walk & Ride in Comfort

It’s been a while since I’ve reviewed a pair of riding shoes. If you’ve followed my previous work, you’ll know I tend to stray away from boots and opt for more low-profile, casual riding shoes. I’m not huge on boots, and I’m afraid that bias will impact the review.

Helmet House had expressed a lot of interest in working together on some gear, and I figured, what the hell! My current riding shoes are looking a little worse for wear, and the ARX Air Riding shoes looked right up my alley.

Slim, sleek, discrete, and most importantly, comfortable.

Yep, these shoes were thought to have it all! I put them to the test and was pleasantly surprised by how they performed. They ticked most of my boxes, and I think they will tick most of yours as well.

Skate Shoes or Riding Shoes?

I’m reviewing more streetwear-inspired gear, who would’ve thought?

The Sidi ARX Air Riding Shoes have a few obvious design features that differentiate them from traditional streetwear, but apart from that, they fly under the radar pretty well. One of the most obvious features is the outer mesh along the middle and back of the shoe.

I don’t know about you, but I’ve never seen a pair of Nikes with mesh along the body. You’ll be pleased to know, however, that I’m grateful for that mesh. It gives the shoes plenty of ventilation in hot riding conditions, something you’ll appreciate as well.

What’s more, the mesh isn’t even noticeable in my riding jeans. The leg is long enough to cover that part of the shoe, exposing only the toe and part of the laces.

Speaking of the toe, the shift guard on the big toe is very discreet, and smaller than I’ve seen on other riding shoes. From a design aspect, I like that, but it makes me question the effectiveness of it.

In case you couldn’t tell, I reviewed the Black/White color combination. The white rubber sole contrasts nicely against the black fabric, alongside the white laces. Black laces were included in the box, but I think we can all agree that white laces look better.

The black ARX shoes are 100x easier to keep clean than the white Spidi XPD Moto-1 shoes I reviewed in 2023 (who would’ve thought?). At the time, I was stoked to have found a white pair of riding shoes, but I quickly realized they’re so hard to come by – they get destroyed by the shifter.

Overall, I love the design of the shoes. With what’s visible under my riding jeans, they remind me of a pair of black Converse. The only thing I would change is the reflecting details on the heel. I’d love to see Sidi incorporate reflective details in a more tasteful, design-oriented way.

If short boots are your style, you’ll want to check out our Best Short Boots list for 2025.

Design: 90%
Build Quality

At first glance, the shoes looked and felt high-quality. Throughout my review, that almost remained entirely true, with the exception of one minor detail with the potential to turn major. Let me explain.

The toe of the shoe is made out of a rip-stop material. This was a very smart choice of material as the rip-stop will encourage your foot to slide across the pavement to prevent your toes from catching while skipping across the asphalt. Not a pleasant thought, but the reality of an accident.

The sole of the shoe is firm and durable. I’m confident that the Vibram Rubber Sole will be able to stand up to any terrain. As for time on the bike, the sole has large grooves in it to maximize grip, ensuring your feet stay firmly planted on your pegs and controls.

Moving up the shoe is the upper canvas and aforementioned mesh material. In the hand, it feels thick, impact absorbing, and comfortable. Everything about this shoe is screaming high quality, except for one thing – the stitching.

On the shift gear protection, the stitching began to fray after my first ride. Funnily enough, it began to fray fairly high up on the foot in areas that are unlikely to be touched by the shifter. Aside from a few stray shifts, I feel confident enough to say that area of the shoe has not seen much action.

Regardless, the stitch has begun to fray. The good news? It hasn’t gotten much worse over the last few weeks than when it originally started. Like I mentioned, this is a minor issue with the potential to become a major one.

If the stitching is fraying from a bit of gear shifting, how will it hold up in a slide?

Build Quality: 75%
Superior Fit & Comfort

Some things that really stuck out to me with the Sidi ARX Air Riding Shoes are in regard to the sizing. First off, you’ll need to convert your US foot size to match the EU sizing. This is easy enough to do with a simple Google search.

Unfortunately, by following the EU sizing, the shoe isn’t made in my exact size. Typically, I wear a size 9. With the ARX’s, I had the choice of either an 8.5 or 9.5, but not a 9. I opted for the latter and was pleasantly surprised by how well they fit. Yes, a tad bit big, but still snug and safe to ride in.

On top of that, take a look at the overall range of sizes, particularly the larger ones. I challenge you to find me another riding shoe that’s not only made, but stocked, in a US size 14 and 15. I’ll wait.

Size options are abundant with the ARX Air Riding Shoes; that much is clear. Aside from that, the fit is excellent. On first use, the fit is fairly snug, with the high-top design and protection working against you. Luckily, Sidi included a pull tab on the back that helped motivate my foot into the shoe.

After my testing period, I’m happy to say that the shoes still fit snug. Typically, I’d like my shoes to loosen up over time, or break in, but with riding gear, I expect the opposite. I don’t want my armor and protection to wear through normal use. That’s not a good sign of strong reinforcement.

As far as comfort goes, these shoes are a dream to wear. Whether I’m walking or riding, I didn’t have any pain in my feet, found the soles to be extremely cushy and supportive, and enjoyed my time wearing them.

I was afraid the larger size would be an issue, but it wasn’t at all. I don’t have any complaints when it comes to the size, fit, and comfort of the ARX Air Riding Shoes.

If comfort is what you’re after, you’ll want to check out our review of the Cortech “The Slayer” Canvas Riding Shoes.

Size, Fit & Comfort: 100%
Good Protection For What They Are

Just by looking at the Sidi ARX Air Riding Shoes, I knew what I was getting into in terms of protection. They don’t make use of metal inserts in high-impact areas, nor do they incorporate highly-abrasion-resistant materials.

Yet, they are still certified to EN 13634:2017. They have low-profile D30 material around the ankle for impact absorption and energy dissipation. Furthermore, the heel and toe are reinforced for additional protection.

The ARX shoes weren’t designed to be the most protective short boots on the market, and I think it’s fair to say anyone considering buying them is not expecting them to be. With that being said, I think that Sidi could’ve incorporated a few more protective features while still maintaining a low profile. For example, an insert in the ankle wouldn’t add bulk to the shoe, but it can make a huge difference in a slide.

If you’re looking for something with a bit more protection, check out our Best Cruiser Motorcycle Boots.

Protection: 75%
Value for Money

Coming in at a mid-range price, the Sidi ARX Air Riding Shoes have a hard time presenting their value for money.

For example, the TCX Street 3 Air Shoes come in at the same price point, look very similar, yet have a heap more features throughout the shoe. Some of the most notable features include an Ortholite footbed and D30 inserts on the malleolus.

Looking at cheaper shoes, the aforementioned Cortech “The Slayer” riding shoes have comparable features to the ARX Air’s, but cost over $40 less.

Now that’s not to say that the Sidi ARX Air Riding Shoes are overpriced. I think that they are an extremely comfortable shoe that a lot of riders will find value in, but unfortunately, that isn’t something I can provide a direct comparison as I haven’t worn the previously mentioned shoes above.

Value for Money: 70%
Final Verdict

Riding in the ARX Air Riding Shoes was a pleasure, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to review them. The shoes have a great design element to them, which will appeal to riders looking for a discreet, streetwear-inspired shoe.

While they aren’t the cheapest pair of riding shoes on the market, or the most protective, it is my belief that riders will find value in the ARX shoes through the comfort they provide both on and off the bike.

If staying calm, cool, and comfortable is most important to you, the Sidi ARX Air Riding Shoes will be a great fit for your closet.

Scoring

Design: 90%
Build Quality: 75%
Size, Fit & Comfort: 100%
Protection: 75%
Value for Money: 70%

Pros

Timeless look that blends with most streetwear-inspired gear
Exceptional comfort both on and off the bike
Rip-stop toe and D30 ankle
High traction rubber sole keeps your feet firmly planted on the controls
Available in large sizes for riders with big feet

Cons

Reflective elements clash with the overall design
No protective inserts throughout the shoe
Only two color choices
Fraying stitch brings into question the overall quality of the shoe
The price point is high to comparable riding shoes

Specifications

Manufacturer: Sidi
Price: $179.99
Colors: Black/White, Castian/Bronze
Sizes Available: 7, 8, 8.5, 9.5, 10, 11, 11.5, 12.5, 13.4, 14, 15
Review Period: April – May 2025

Where to Buy

Helmet House
RevZilla
Amazon

Photo Gallery

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Review Summary

If you’re looking for the main takeaways from this review, here is my summary of the ARX Air Riding Shoes by Sidi:

The Sidi ARX Air Riding Shoes retail for $179.99 USD
They are available in two colorways
Black/White
Castian/Bronze

The ARX Air Riding Shoes have a near-perfect streetwear-inspired design, with the only flaw being the clashing reflective elements on the heel
The black fabric is extremely easy to keep clean, and the white rubber heel can be kept looking new with the use of a magic eraser
The shoe feels high-quality overall with the exception of the stitching on the shift gear protection
The stitching began to fray after one ride, but has not progressed much further over the course of two months
Sold in EU sizing, which may vary slightly from US sizes
Manufactured and stocked in large sizes such as US 14 and 15
Exceptional comfort both on and off the bike
Protection is minimal, but still better than wearing street shoes
D30 ankle protection and rip-stop material across the toes
The shoes have a high price point in comparison to comparable riding shoes, but the value can be justified by how comfortable they are

Walk & Ride in Comfort

It’s been a while since I’ve reviewed a pair of riding shoes. If you’ve followed my previous work, you’ll know I tend to stray away from boots and opt for more low-profile, casual riding shoes. I’m not huge on boots, and I’m afraid that bias will impact the review.

Helmet House had expressed a lot of interest in working together on some gear, and I figured, what the hell! My current riding shoes are looking a little worse for wear, and the ARX Air Riding shoes looked right up my alley.

Slim, sleek, discrete, and most importantly, comfortable.

Yep, these shoes were thought to have it all! I put them to the test and was pleasantly surprised by how they performed. They ticked most of my boxes, and I think they will tick most of yours as well.

Skate Shoes or Riding Shoes?

I’m reviewing more streetwear-inspired gear, who would’ve thought?

The Sidi ARX Air Riding Shoes have a few obvious design features that differentiate them from traditional streetwear, but apart from that, they fly under the radar pretty well. One of the most obvious features is the outer mesh along the middle and back of the shoe.

I don’t know about you, but I’ve never seen a pair of Nikes with mesh along the body. You’ll be pleased to know, however, that I’m grateful for that mesh. It gives the shoes plenty of ventilation in hot riding conditions, something you’ll appreciate as well.

What’s more, the mesh isn’t even noticeable in my riding jeans. The leg is long enough to cover that part of the shoe, exposing only the toe and part of the laces.

Speaking of the toe, the shift guard on the big toe is very discreet, and smaller than I’ve seen on other riding shoes. From a design aspect, I like that, but it makes me question the effectiveness of it.

In case you couldn’t tell, I reviewed the Black/White color combination. The white rubber sole contrasts nicely against the black fabric, alongside the white laces. Black laces were included in the box, but I think we can all agree that white laces look better.

The black ARX shoes are 100x easier to keep clean than the white Spidi XPD Moto-1 shoes I reviewed in 2023 (who would’ve thought?). At the time, I was stoked to have found a white pair of riding shoes, but I quickly realized they’re so hard to come by – they get destroyed by the shifter.

Overall, I love the design of the shoes. With what’s visible under my riding jeans, they remind me of a pair of black Converse. The only thing I would change is the reflecting details on the heel. I’d love to see Sidi incorporate reflective details in a more tasteful, design-oriented way.

If short boots are your style, you’ll want to check out our Best Short Boots list for 2025.

Design: 90%
Build Quality

At first glance, the shoes looked and felt high-quality. Throughout my review, that almost remained entirely true, with the exception of one minor detail with the potential to turn major. Let me explain.

The toe of the shoe is made out of a rip-stop material. This was a very smart choice of material as the rip-stop will encourage your foot to slide across the pavement to prevent your toes from catching while skipping across the asphalt. Not a pleasant thought, but the reality of an accident.

The sole of the shoe is firm and durable. I’m confident that the Vibram Rubber Sole will be able to stand up to any terrain. As for time on the bike, the sole has large grooves in it to maximize grip, ensuring your feet stay firmly planted on your pegs and controls.

Moving up the shoe is the upper canvas and aforementioned mesh material. In the hand, it feels thick, impact absorbing, and comfortable. Everything about this shoe is screaming high quality, except for one thing – the stitching.

On the shift gear protection, the stitching began to fray after my first ride. Funnily enough, it began to fray fairly high up on the foot in areas that are unlikely to be touched by the shifter. Aside from a few stray shifts, I feel confident enough to say that area of the shoe has not seen much action.

Regardless, the stitch has begun to fray. The good news? It hasn’t gotten much worse over the last few weeks than when it originally started. Like I mentioned, this is a minor issue with the potential to become a major one.

If the stitching is fraying from a bit of gear shifting, how will it hold up in a slide?

Build Quality: 75%
Superior Fit & Comfort

Some things that really stuck out to me with the Sidi ARX Air Riding Shoes are in regard to the sizing. First off, you’ll need to convert your US foot size to match the EU sizing. This is easy enough to do with a simple Google search.

Unfortunately, by following the EU sizing, the shoe isn’t made in my exact size. Typically, I wear a size 9. With the ARX’s, I had the choice of either an 8.5 or 9.5, but not a 9. I opted for the latter and was pleasantly surprised by how well they fit. Yes, a tad bit big, but still snug and safe to ride in.

On top of that, take a look at the overall range of sizes, particularly the larger ones. I challenge you to find me another riding shoe that’s not only made, but stocked, in a US size 14 and 15. I’ll wait.

Size options are abundant with the ARX Air Riding Shoes; that much is clear. Aside from that, the fit is excellent. On first use, the fit is fairly snug, with the high-top design and protection working against you. Luckily, Sidi included a pull tab on the back that helped motivate my foot into the shoe.

After my testing period, I’m happy to say that the shoes still fit snug. Typically, I’d like my shoes to loosen up over time, or break in, but with riding gear, I expect the opposite. I don’t want my armor and protection to wear through normal use. That’s not a good sign of strong reinforcement.

As far as comfort goes, these shoes are a dream to wear. Whether I’m walking or riding, I didn’t have any pain in my feet, found the soles to be extremely cushy and supportive, and enjoyed my time wearing them.

I was afraid the larger size would be an issue, but it wasn’t at all. I don’t have any complaints when it comes to the size, fit, and comfort of the ARX Air Riding Shoes.

If comfort is what you’re after, you’ll want to check out our review of the Cortech “The Slayer” Canvas Riding Shoes.

See also

Size, Fit & Comfort: 100%
Good Protection For What They Are

Just by looking at the Sidi ARX Air Riding Shoes, I knew what I was getting into in terms of protection. They don’t make use of metal inserts in high-impact areas, nor do they incorporate highly-abrasion-resistant materials.

Yet, they are still certified to EN 13634:2017. They have low-profile D30 material around the ankle for impact absorption and energy dissipation. Furthermore, the heel and toe are reinforced for additional protection.

The ARX shoes weren’t designed to be the most protective short boots on the market, and I think it’s fair to say anyone considering buying them is not expecting them to be. With that being said, I think that Sidi could’ve incorporated a few more protective features while still maintaining a low profile. For example, an insert in the ankle wouldn’t add bulk to the shoe, but it can make a huge difference in a slide.

If you’re looking for something with a bit more protection, check out our Best Cruiser Motorcycle Boots.

Protection: 75%
Value for Money

Coming in at a mid-range price, the Sidi ARX Air Riding Shoes have a hard time presenting their value for money.

For example, the TCX Street 3 Air Shoes come in at the same price point, look very similar, yet have a heap more features throughout the shoe. Some of the most notable features include an Ortholite footbed and D30 inserts on the malleolus.

Looking at cheaper shoes, the aforementioned Cortech “The Slayer” riding shoes have comparable features to the ARX Air’s, but cost over $40 less.

Now that’s not to say that the Sidi ARX Air Riding Shoes are overpriced. I think that they are an extremely comfortable shoe that a lot of riders will find value in, but unfortunately, that isn’t something I can provide a direct comparison as I haven’t worn the previously mentioned shoes above.

Value for Money: 70%
Final Verdict

Riding in the ARX Air Riding Shoes was a pleasure, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to review them. The shoes have a great design element to them, which will appeal to riders looking for a discreet, streetwear-inspired shoe.

While they aren’t the cheapest pair of riding shoes on the market, or the most protective, it is my belief that riders will find value in the ARX shoes through the comfort they provide both on and off the bike.

If staying calm, cool, and comfortable is most important to you, the Sidi ARX Air Riding Shoes will be a great fit for your closet.

Scoring

Design: 90%
Build Quality: 75%
Size, Fit & Comfort: 100%
Protection: 75%
Value for Money: 70%