Ride Ready: Why Your Motorcycle Jacket Matters – And 5 Jackets Worth Wearing This May

May 8, 2025

Top Motorcycle Jackets to Rock This Season

When it comes to motorcycle gear, a solid jacket is non-negotiable. It’s more than just a fashion statement—it’s functional armor. Whether you’re dodging gravel on a backroad or clocking miles on the freeway, your jacket is your first line of defense against the elements, the asphalt, and unpredictable conditions. It should fit right, protect well, and look sharp doing it.


May is one of the best times to ride—mild mornings, warm afternoons, and longer daylight hours make for ideal cruising weather. But that also means dressing smart. A good jacket keeps the chill out on early rides, protects you from road rash, and gives you enough ventilation and flexibility to stay comfortable when the sun hits high.


Thunder-Rode Motorcycle Accessories in Kingman, AZ understands that a rider’s gear should match their lifestyle. Their lineup of pre-owned motorcycle jackets includes some real gems—classic cuts, timeless styles, and tough construction that’ll last through the season and beyond. Here’s a look at five standout jackets you should consider this month.

1. Wilsons Retro 80’s Euro Jacket 

If you’re into throwback style with real road cred, the Wilsons Retro 80’s Euro Jacket delivers. This jacket brings a fitted, café-racer look that channels classic European riding gear. It’s sleek, slightly tapered, and likely to feel snug in all the right places. Whether you’re riding a vintage Triumph or a modern street bike, this jacket’s got the versatility to pair with just about any setup. It’s the kind of gear that feels just as good off the bike as it does on it.

2. Carl Michaels Leather Jacket 

This Carl Michaels jacket keeps things straightforward and clean. With a no-nonsense silhouette and traditional construction, it’s the type of leather that gets better with age. The classic design suggests a timeless fit—something you could wear for years without it going out of style. It likely features strong zippers, simple cuffs, and a slightly looser cut, perfect for layering on colder mornings without sacrificing mobility.

3. Indian Motorcycle Jacket

This one’s a head-turner. With “Indian Motorcycle” stitched proudly across the back, this jacket pays homage to one of the most legendary names in American motorcycling. The leather appears thick and substantial—ideal for riders who want added protection without overdoing the bulk. It’s got a traditional cruiser feel, likely styled to match Indian’s signature aesthetic: bold, premium, and road-ready. It’s not just a jacket—it’s a statement.

4. FMC Motorcycle Jacket – Size 38, Brass YKK Zips & Snaps

The FMC jacket stands out for riders who value detail and construction. With brass YKK zippers and snaps, this one’s built with longevity in mind. The smaller size suggests a more fitted cut—possibly ideal for lean riders or those who prefer a snug, aerodynamic fit. The hardware alone hints at a quality build, and the design likely follows a classic motorcycle shape: zip-up front, snap-down collar, and tough-as-nails leather. This jacket is made to take a beating and keep going.

5. UNIK 6827 3X Ladies Side Lace Snap-Down Collar Jacket

Designed with women riders in mind, the UNIK 6827 is more than just a scaled-down version of a men’s jacket. The side lacing allows for a more customized fit, which is key for comfort and confidence in the saddle. The snap-down collar adds a touch of edge while keeping flaps from flapping at high speed. The 3X size offers room and flexibility, making this jacket a solid option for riders looking for both fit and function without compromise.

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Motorcycle jackets are about much more than looks—they’re the one piece of gear that’s with you every mile. From crash protection and wind resistance to sun coverage and street style, the right jacket keeps you riding longer and smarter. Thunder-Rode’s current jacket selection features a range of cuts and styles, each with its own personality. Whether you’re looking for old-school flair or all-business leather, there’s something on their rack that fits the ride.


You can check out these jackets and more by visiting Thunder-Rode in Kingman, AZ or exploring their web store. Just remember their motto: “Family Doesn’t Let Family Ride Naked.” So gear up, hit the road, and ride May out in style.

Saddlebags: A Biker’s Best Friend on the Open Road

May 2, 2025
Every biker knows that the thrill of the open road comes with certain practicalities—chief among them is storage. Whether you’re gearing up for a cross-country ride or just heading out for the afternoon, having a reliable way to carry your essentials is key. That’s where saddlebags come in. More than just an accessory, a solid set of saddlebags can be the difference between an uncomfortable ride and a seamless, enjoyable adventure.  At Thunder-Rode Motorcycle Accessories, we believe in gearing up right. That’s why we offer a curated selection of saddlebags for every type of rider—from the occasional cruiser to the long-distance road warrior.

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.

Ride Ready, Ride Right

April 9, 2025
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.

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.