FOX Racing Blitz Gear, And More - Product Testing

The roomy $79.95 pant isn't insulated, but the heavy-duty, water-resistant material offers reasonable wind and moisture protection. A zipper, double-snapped flap and adjustable straps on each side lock you in. Two zippered storage pockets (I used them for cash and my driver's license) are handy. Inner knee panels add heat and wear resistance. The $29.95 100 percent polyester jersey is comfortable, durable and cut to be worn untucked.

As expected, the weather in Ohio was in the low 40s with light rain. In addition, we traveled several miles in water up to a foot deep. I didn't depend on the jersey for warmth. I layered and wore a jacket over it, but it was comfortable and didn't look out of place at dinner. The pant kept me, my boot and even my socks dry despite the extended splashing. On subsequent outings I have enjoyed the gear in cold to mild temps on the MX track and on desert trails. The jersey is fine for warm riding, but the pant is best saved for cool conditions.

I needed the big-guy waist, but the pant bordered on too long for my 32-inch inseam. I walked on the back of it a bit, so short riders might need the pant hemmed. The bottom of the right leg is now riddled with header burns, as is common on this style of pant. The leg openings are large. That's good for fitting over boots, but the kickstarter once caught inside the pant leg and I almost tipped over and squashed an unsuspecting mini rider.

Both the pant and jersey still look great aside from the burn holes. It wouldn't be my choice for summer, but the Recon gear is an economical, clean and comfortable way to handle a variety of riding conditions. For the price, it easily earns an "atta boy" from me.-Karel Kramer

Wolfman Luggage
Enduro Carryall
When I needed some extra storage capacity for a bike-packing story, Wolfman Luggage was there to save the day. The company hooked me up with its Enduro carryall, which mounts on top of a traditional headlight-but not in front of the beam-via some cool universal clips and tension straps that wrap around the handlebar and lower triple clamp. The carryall itself has a main large pocket, along with an internal divider and key clip, and it is stiffened by foam and plastic to help hold its shape. Coolest of all, though, is the removable map pocket, which securely holds a normal-size map or trail route, right where you need it most.

Having a storage space just beyond the handlebar makes for very easy access. In addition to being in your line of sight (making you aware of any open zips or broken straps), the Enduro carryall is right in front of your face, so those ever-useful screwdrivers, pocketknives and granola bars are always within reach. It secures well, and the straps are strong enough for serious trail riders, though I wouldn't recommend riding at full throttle with tools in front of your face. Such a bag would also be useful to off-road course markers and trail workers, since you can easily remove the map pocket and stuff in some arrows and a stapler. The biggest drawback of the carryall is that it puts an extra dose of weight high up on the front end; this can play major games with handling. Additionally, care needs to be taken when fastening the bag so that you don't lose any light from the front. But if you limit your load to the essentials and secure the straps with care, this $69.99 bag might never leave your woods bike. -Chris Denison