Holiday Gifts for Motorcycle Riders Under $50
The Honest Truth About Motorcycle Gifts
Let's cut through it: most "motorcycle gift guides" are just product catalogs in disguise. Someone Googled "motorcycle accessories," picked seven random things, and called it content.
Not here.
Every item on this list came from our staff—people who actually ride through Richmond winters, haul bikes to the track, and have ruined more than one phone trying to use Google Maps at 70 mph. We asked them one question: "What under-$50 gear do you actually use, recommend to friends, or wish someone had bought you?"
This is what made the cut:
For the Practical Hauler: ProTaper Tie Downs
$49.99 | Shop ProTaper Tie Downs
Who this is for: The rider who's done the "strap the bike with whatever's in the garage" thing exactly once before learning the hard way.
Why Our Staff Swears By These
John told us: "I've watched a $12 ratchet strap snap mid-highway. Never again. These ProTapers have soft-coated hooks so they don't scratch your tank, and the webbing is thick enough that you're not paranoid the whole drive."
The real benefit: High-tensile strength sounds boring until your bike stays exactly where you strapped it—no shifting, no scratching, no "should I pull over and check?" anxiety.
Perfect for: Anyone who just bought a trailer or truck. Also makes a killer gift for the friend who's always asking to borrow your tie-downs.
For the Track Day Junkie: Fox Racing Dirtpaw Gloves
$34.95 | Shop Fox Racing Dirtpaw Gloves
2. Fox Racing Dirtpaw Gloves
Who this is for: The rider who thinks "casual weekend ride" means finding the twistiest back road possible.
Why Alex Owns Three Pairs
Alex: "These gloves grip like crazy—silicone fingertips mean your throttle hand doesn't slip even if you're sweating. Padded knuckles saved me when I low-sided at VIR last summer. And they're under $35, so when I inevitably shred a pair, I'm not crying about it."
The real benefit: Lightweight enough that you don't feel like you're wearing oven mitts, but protective enough that you're not gambling with your hands. The breathable mesh keeps your palms from turning into swamp zones.
Perfect for: Off-road riders, new riders who need affordable protection, or anyone who's tired of their gloves disintegrating after one season.
Pairs well with: Our beginner gear guide if you're buying for someone just getting into riding.
For Cold-Weather Warriors: Alpinestars Touring Winter Balaclava
Who this is for: Riders who refuse to garage the bike just because it's 34°F out.
Why This Beats the Gas Station Balaclava
Gray says: "I tried a cheap one from AutoZone. It bunched under my helmet, rode up, and made me look like a failed bank robber. This Alpinestars one? Thermal insulation that actually works, stays put, and I can breathe without fogging my visor."
The real benefit: Thermal fabric keeps your neck and ears from freezing off, but it's breathable enough that you're not overheating when you stop for coffee. Fits snugly under any helmet without adding bulk or pressure points.
Perfect for: The rider who checks the weather and goes anyway. Also great for early-morning commuters who leave before the sun's up.
💡 Staff Tip: Wash it after every 3-4 rides. Helmet hair + sweat + balaclava = not cute.
Who this is for: Everyone. Literally everyone who uses their phone for GPS, music, or taking photos on rides.
Why This Beats the $10 Amazon Mount
Brian: "I went through four cheap phone mounts before I finally bought a Quad Lock. The difference? This one actually stays locked. Shock-resistant case, twist-and-secure mount—I've hit potholes that would've launched my phone into oncoming traffic with the old setup."
The real benefit: Your phone becomes a legit part of your bike setup. No more "is my phone going to fly off?" paranoia. No more stopping every 10 miles to readjust. Works seamlessly with Quad Lock's handlebar mounts (sold separately, but worth it).
Perfect for: New riders who live on Google Maps, tourers planning multi-state trips, or anyone who wants to actually enjoy the ride instead of worrying about their phone.
🎁 Gift Tip: Pair the case ($29.99) with a handlebar mount (~$80) for a complete under-$150 gift that'll get used daily.
For the DIY Rider: VP Racing Utility Jug
$39.95 | Shop VP Racing Utility Jug
Who this is for: Long-distance riders and track day fuel haulers.
Why This Isn't Just "A Gas Can"
John: "If you've ever tried pouring gas from a wobbly jerry can into a bike tank without spilling half of it, you get it. The ergonomic handle and wide mouth make filling stupid easy. Plus it's high-density polyethylene—basically indestructible."
The real benefit: 5.5-gallon capacity means fewer trips to the pump when you're hauling fuel for a track day or adventure ride. The design actually makes pouring easy (revolutionary, we know).
Perfect for: Riders who do track days, off-road trips, or long tours where gas stations are 100+ miles apart.
⚠️ Not sexy, but wildly useful. This is the gift that gets a "wait, I actually needed this" response.
For the Helmet Perfectionist: Muc-Off Helmet Care Kit
$44.99 | Shop Muc Off Helmet Care Kit
Who this is for: Riders who value longevity and maintenance and practical gear care.
Why Your Helmet Deserves Better Than Windex
Gray tells us: "I used to just wipe my visor with whatever was nearby. Then I fogged up in traffic and nearly rear-ended someone. This kit has anti-fog spray that actually works, plus a cleaner that doesn't destroy the helmet liner. My Shoei is 3 years old and still looks new."
The real benefit: Extends the life of your helmet padding, keeps visors crystal-clear, and prevents the dreaded fog-up that turns intersections into a guessing game. Comes with cleaner, anti-fog treatment, and a microfiber cloth.
Perfect for: New riders who don't know helmet care is a thing, long-distance tourers who need clear vision, or anyone whose helmet smells like... regret.
💡 Staff Tip: Use the anti-fog spray before a ride, not during. Trust us.
Who this is for: Riders who want to look good and stay comfortable without spending $200 on a jersey.Why This Is the Ultimate Value Pick
Brian: "Moisture-wicking, breathable, and under $20? I bought four. Great for summer rides when leather is overkill, or just for wearing around because—let's be honest—riding gear looks cool even off the bike."
The real benefit: Functional gear that doubles as casual wear. Multiple colors and patterns mean you can match your bike (or not—we don't judge). Lightweight enough for hot days but durable enough for actual riding.
Perfect for: Stocking stuffers, entry-level riders building a gear collection, or anyone who needs affordable activewear that screams "I ride."
🎯 Pro move: Buy two—one as a gift, one for yourself. At $19, it's basically a crime not to.
For the Off-Bike Flex: Fox Racing Hats
Starting at $29.95 | Shop Fox Racing Hats
Who this is for: Riders who rep the lifestyle 24/7, not just when they're on the bike.
Why Rider Hats Hit Different
Alex: "I've got three Fox snapbacks and I'm not sorry. They're not just 'motorcycle hats'—they're well-made lids with solid branding. Snapbacks, fitted, trucker styles, multiple colorways. I wear them to the gym, the bike night, the grocery store. People ask if I ride. Obviously I do."
The real benefit: Quality headwear that signals "I'm part of the tribe" without being cheesy. Fox Racing's been in moto for decades, so the logo carries weight. Plus, they're built to last—not the cheap gas station hat that falls apart after two washes.
Perfect for: New riders who want to ease into moto culture, gift-givers who don't know helmet size but know the person's style, or anyone who needs a solid everyday hat.
💡 Staff Tip: Snapbacks are one-size-fits-most magic. If you're unsure about sizing, go snapback. If they're picky about fit, ask them (or grab a gift receipt).
🎁 Gift Bundle Idea: Fox Racing Hat ($29.95) + Fox Racing Jersey ($19.19) = Under-$50 Fox starter pack. Style points unlocked.
For the Daily Commuter: Factory Effex Standard Backpack
$44.95 | Shop Factory Effex Backpack
Who this is for: Commuters who need laptop storage and track day gear haulers.
Why This Beats Your Random Amazon Backpack
Brian: "I commute 40 minutes each way and needed something that could carry my laptop, lunch, and rain gear without looking like I'm still in high school. This Factory Effex pack has padded laptop storage, adjustable padded straps, and side pockets for water bottles. It's made for riders—not just repurposed school gear."
The real benefit: Built for the riding life. Padded laptop compartment means your work gear survives the commute. Internal zippered mesh pocket keeps small stuff organized (phone charger, wallet, keys—stuff that always ends up at the bottom of cheap bags). Water bottle pockets on the sides mean hydration is accessible without unzipping.
Perfect for: Daily commuters, college riders, track day enthusiasts who need to haul tools and snacks, or anyone tired of backpacks that dig into their shoulders after 20 minutes.
⭐ Officially licensed product—not knockoff gear that falls apart in three months.
Perfect for: The "I need something practical that doesn't scream 'I'm trying too hard'" crowd.
The Bottom Line: Gifts They'll Actually Use
Here's what separates this list from the generic "motorcycle gift guide" spam:
✅ Every item was tested by our staff (not just pulled from a supplier catalog)
✅ We told you why each one matters (not just specs copied from a website)
✅ These solve real rider problems (tie-downs that don't snap, gloves that grip, phone cases that stay put)
FAQ: Common Gift-Giving Questions
Q: What's the best motorcycle gift for someone who has everything?
A: The Muc-Off Helmet Care Kit. Even riders with $5K worth of gear overlook maintenance products—and a clean, fog-free helmet is priceless.
Q: Are tie-downs actually worth gifting?
A: If the person hauls their bike even once a year, yes. Cheap tie-downs are a liability. Good ones are peace of mind.
Q: What if I don't know their gear size?
A: Phone case (one size fits phone), tie-downs (universal), utility jug (no sizing needed), or helmet care kit (works for any helmet). Easy wins.
Q: Can I return these if they don't fit?
A: Absolutely. Sprocketz has a No Hassle Return Policy —we want riders to love what they wear and use. Easy returns, no drama.
Don't Wait Until the Last Minute
Order by December 15 for guaranteed holiday delivery in the Richmond area. After that, we'll do our best—but no promises. Or you can always head into the shop and chat with one of our team members.
👉 Or visit our Richmond showroom to see these items in person (and get free gift-wrapping because we're nice like that).
Keep the Gift-Giving Going
Looking for other budget tiers? We've got you:
- Under $20: Stocking Stuffers That Don't Suck
- Under $100: The Sweet Spot for Gift-Givers
- Under $200: Premium Gear Without the Premium Guilt
- Under $300: Go Big or Go Home
- High-End Gifts: For When "Budget" Isn't in the Vocabulary
Have questions? Drop us a line at info@sprocketz.store or DM us on Instagram @sprocketzrva
Ride safe. Gift smart. Support local.
— The Sprocketz Crew
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