Helmets - compulsory wearing in Australia (all states and territories - like seat belts)
New helmets are needed. Technology has progressed but I have found that this does not mean cheaper prices. Looking at helmets today I discovered if that if you want the good gear with functionality, practicality, top safety credentials it costs BIG $$$$$. Oh well. We have only one head. It is also fragile and not designed to strike hard objects with any force and not suffer injury. Hence the need for the best head protection.
CHOICE -SHARK Helmet (Not a SHOEI) - EVOLINE model
Intercom - rider to pillion - phone - music - bluetooth - leads are required for music (leads supplied) - no A2DP
Whilst I would like to have a fully integrated, bike mounted BlueTooth based system, after the expensive helmets a dollar compromise was in order. A bluetooth helmet mounted intercom system was chosen that fits nicely in the SHARK helmets.
More details and experiences to come on this item.
Flat Tyres
Something we do not want but must be prepared to fix. A simple tubeless tyre repair kit (CO2 cylinders - plugs - reamer - glue) is all thats needed. Add a decent tyre gauge and at the first tyre replacement replace the original valve stems with right angle stems (the new digital tyre pump systems at many servo's, do reduce the need to do this (right angle stems).
Charging the Battery
What? The alternator does that. Well yes and no. No alternator fully charges your battery (car or motorcycle). The bike will also be garaged, as I commute on the SYM 125 and not ridden for a few days. No flat or partially charged batteries. Battery properly maintained. CTEC battery chargers are the answer. Your battery will last a lot longer when plugged into a quality charger/maintainer when the bike is garaged.
Yet to be decided upon -
Riding Gear (new stuff)
Camping/Cooking gear (MSR looking good and JetBoil stove)
Hydration preferences (Hmmm)
Sorting out a tool kit ( Partly there)
Sleeping accommodation - I suspect a swag will be for me on my solo trips. 3 man tent for two up (MSR) - might just go the tent option - no swag????
(Update 27/2/10 - errors corrected - helmets and intercom)