Ride Ready, Ride Right

Gear Up for the Ride

Every motorcycle ride is its own adventure—whether you’re cruising down Route 66, making your way to a rally, or just clearing your head on the open road. No matter the destination, one thing remains constant: you’ve got to have the right gear. At Thunder-Rode Motorcycle Accessories, we’ve spent decades helping riders stay safe, comfortable, and sharp on the road. Before you throw a leg over your bike, make sure you’re covered—literally—with these must-haves.

1. Leather Chaps: Ride Tough, Ride Protected

A solid pair of leather chaps isn’t just about looking like a proper biker—they’re about protection. If you take a spill, that thick leather acts as a second skin, helping shield your legs from road rash and debris. Plus, chaps block wind and cold like nothing else, making long rides way more bearable. Ours are built tough, with adjustable waistbands and leg zippers for a snug fit over jeans. They’re easy to take on and off and a staple in every serious rider’s wardrobe.

A motorcycle with a helmet on the handlebars is parked in front of a building.

2. A Solid Pair of Gloves

Keeping your grip tight and your knuckles safe, gloves are essential for all-season riders. Whether you’re braving hot sun or unexpected rain, gloves protect your hands from wind, bugs, and debris. Look for reinforced palms, breathable fabric, and adjustable wrist straps. Thunder-Rode carries gloves for every kind of rider—whether you’re into fingerless classics or full-fingered performance.

3. Protective Eyewear

A good pair of goggles or riding glasses isn’t just about style—it’s about safety. Dust, wind, and sunlight can do a number on your eyes if you’re not careful. We’ve got anti-fog, UV-blocking, shatter-resistant options in a range of styles that offer solid protection and a clear view of the road ahead.

4. Secure Storage: Saddlebags and Tool Bags

You never know when you’ll need a wrench, a rain poncho, or just a snack. Leather saddlebags, fork bags, and tool rolls let you carry the essentials without cluttering your ride. Thunder-Rode’s bags are durable, weather-resistant, and built to match the look and feel of your bike.

A motorcycle with a tank that has a lot of tattoos on it

5. A Reliable Wallet with a Chain

Ever lost a wallet while riding? Trust us—you only do that once. That’s why every rider should have a tough leather wallet with a secure chain. Thunder-Rode carries handmade wallets built to take a beating and wallet chains that keep your stuff right where it belongs, no matter how fast you’re flying down the road.

6. Patch It Up: Personalize Your Gear

Your patches tell your story—where you’ve been, who you ride with, and what you stand for. Whether you’re rocking a club vest or just collecting patches along the way, Thunder-Rode has hundreds to choose from. Iron ’em on or sew ’em up, and wear your journey with pride.

A black motorcycle with a helmet on the back is parked on the side of the road.

7. Helmets That Balance Safety and Comfort

Whether you’re going half-shell for the wind or full-face for protection, your helmet has to be up to the job. We have DOT-approved helmets in all styles, built for safety, comfort, and visibility. A good helmet isn’t optional—it’s the one thing you hope never gets put to the test.

We’ve Got Your Back—On and Off the Road

Thunder-Rode isn’t just a shop—it’s a stop for riders who take their gear and their community seriously. Located right on historic Route 66 in Kingman, Arizona, we’re a home base for bikers from around the world. Swing by, check out our gear, and say hello. We’ll treat you like family—because here, that’s what you are.

A black leather jacket is hanging on the side of a motorcycle.

A pair of blue and black dainese motorcycle gloves

A person wearing a pair of gloves is riding a motorcycle.

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Cruising Through History: The Significance of Route 66 in Motorcycle Culture

April 24, 2025

The Mother Road of Freedom and Throttle Route 66. Just the name evokes images of open roads, roaring engines, and the kind of freedom only found in the saddle of a motorcycle. Known as the “ Mother Road ,” Route 66 is more than just a highway—it’s a symbol of exploration, independence, and connection for generations of riders. For motorcycle clubs and solo riders alike, this historic stretch of asphalt is hallowed ground. A Road Born from Freedom Established in 1926 , Route 66 originally ran from Chicago, Illinois to Santa Monica, California, spanning over 2,400 miles. Its creation connected rural communities to major cities and transformed the way Americans traveled. For early motorcyclists, this route offered an unprecedented opportunity to explore the country’s heartland—and it quickly became a favorite among riders. By the 1950s and ’60s, the culture of the open road was in full swing . Motorcycle clubs began forming bonds that extended far beyond their home turf, using Route 66 as both a literal and symbolic road to brotherhood. It wasn’t just about the ride—it was about the stories, the camaraderie, and the pit stops in small towns with big hearts. The Mother Road became the unofficial artery of motorcycle club life.

Never Forget Your Helmet

April 16, 2025

Ride Free, Not Foolish There’s a lot to love about life on two wheels—the wind on your face, the roar of the engine, the open road stretching out in front of you. It’s freedom in its purest form. But freedom doesn’t mean forgetting your common sense. If you’re still riding without a helmet, it’s time for some straight talk. At Thunder-Rode Motorcycle Accessories, we live by the road and for the ride—but we also believe in riding smart. One of our favorite sayings around here is: “Family doesn’t let family ride naked.” And no, we’re not just talking about your leather jacket or boots. We’re talking about your head.

Family Doesn’t Let Family Ride Naked

April 2, 2025

An Unspoken Code There’s an unspoken code in the biker world, one that’s as strong as steel and just as dependable. Around here, we sum it up like this: “Family Doesn’t Let Family Ride Naked.” It’s more than a clever slogan slapped on a patch or t-shirt—it’s a way of life. It’s how we look out for each other, keep one another safe, and show up, gear up, and ride with purpose. “ Riding naked ” doesn’t mean hopping on your hog in your birthday suit. What it really means is riding without the protection, gear, or grit that a true biker should have. It’s about safety, sure—but it’s also about community, pride, and having your brothers’ and sisters’ backs when they hit the road.