The caveat of motorcycle riding- trying to carry all the stuff you need on your back, or strapped onto a tiny rear seat or tank. Ladies, general being used to carrying a purse, have a harder time downsizing their everyday carry items down enough to fit into undersized pockets in riding jackets… or in almost nonexistant jean pockets. Huzzah, a solution! A good looking, convertable backpack that seamlessly turns into a purse for off-bike use. It even comes with a removable rain fly for bouts of bad weather! The backpack straps are sturdy and have an ergonomic fit, keeping it secure during your ride. The interior is lined with cute motorcycle print, includes a laptop or tablet sleeve, great organizational pockets and a front pocket with even more storage space… even a key clip. A small, often overlooked detail that is incredibly useful. They even thought to include hydration tube clips for sliding a camelbak or similar product inside.
From the MotoChic creators, “Of the 27 million motorcyclists in the United States today, one in four are women. That number has grown by 67% over the past decade – much faster than men. That’s seven million female motorcyclists who are smart, on trend, and until now, largely ignored by male-dominated motorcycle gear manufacturers who often use a ‘shrink and pink’ approach to designing clothing and accessories for women.”
The convertable backpack/tote is called the Lauren, after iconic actress, model, and rider Lauren Hutton. Expected to be manufactured in 2015, the MotoChic: Lauren kickstarter campaign is live with just 14 days left in the countdown. Pre-ordered early bird bags are $180 and expected to be delivered in February and there are less than 25 left, or the next round in June.
They’ve also created a smaller, convertable clutch/purse called the Valerie after world speed record holder Valerie Thompson. It goes well with the Lauren, or stands alone with five different ways to wear it. Fanny pack (oh yeah, they’re coming back), long purse, shoulder purse, wrist bag, and more.
Check out the MotoChic kickstarter campaign and website to back this project and get your goodies before everyone else! What lady rider doesn’t need a transformable backpack? The fact that it’s can be waterproof makes it that much better.
Ever look back at photos from trips and realize that you don’t have any with your motorcycle? Photos with people included are way more memorable, even though we love looking at our sexy machines. Amanda Zito and I made a little how-to video with tips and tricks for snapping photos of you on your bike!
Posted on December 16, 2014 in Gear & Gizmos, News & Features by Alicia Mariah Elfving