BadJack Machine, LLC
badjackmachine.com
Last year while wandering through the ThunderDome at the Republic of Texas Biker Rally in Austin, I stumbled across Phil Grgurich, owner of BadJack Machine. Since my heritage includes a healthy dose of Czech, I figured if nothing else Phil’s surname might make for some interesting conversation. And then he introduced me to the company’s latest product, Boot Draggers.
Although baggers are currently ruling center stage, there are still a lot of riders that are not running engine guards (formerly known as crash bars before the PC police took over America). I do not run any engine crash bar guards on my 1967 Shovelhead and, as a result, do not have any respectable manner to mount a set of highway foot pegs, which means my feet are restricted to only the space provided by my half-moon floorboards. Boot Draggers are nifty cruiser pegs that clip onto the outer perimeter of your floorboard, providing a type of hook to hang your boot heel on and allowing the rider to fully stretch out their legs.
Machined from aluminum with an attention to detail, the two-piece unit includes the top boot hook and a hidden deflection plate along with a stainless button head socket screw and single setscrew. Both screws come supplied with threadlocker already applied to reduce any possible vibration problems. The machining is excellent with thin-edge, precision pieces that mesh perfectly and follow the exact contour of the floorboard.
Installation first requires that you get a rough estimate of the location you want your boot to rest (Boot Draggers can fit anywhere along the floorboard perimeter allowing for individual rider inseam adjustment). Then loosen the two halves (two different-size hex keys, not included, are required) and slip the hook section over the floorboard radiused lip. Tighten the button head first until it is snug (note that the assembly may still be slightly loose) and then slowly tighten the setscrew, tweaking the deflection plate and pinching the floorboard lip between the two pieces. Go back and adjust the button head until it is fully tightened and finish the installation by tightening the set screw until the unit is firmly secured onto the floorboard edge. Then take a quick measurement with a tape and install the second Boot Dragger in the same manner. Installation took less than 10 minutes per side with the most difficult part being dragging my carcass up and down off the garage floor.
After you take the bike for a spin, readjust as needed, sliding the Boot Draggers either closer or spacing them further out for a total stretched-leg effect. Boot Draggers are designed to fit all OEM Harley-Davidson floorboards (either half moon or rectangular, with or without shaker pads) but can be adapted to aftermarket products as well. Since my floorboards were not a Harley product, the perimeter lip was not as heavy-gauge material as stock and it was necessary to install a small strip of rubber between the two subassemblies to complete a solid mount.
Deceptively simple but amazingly effective (they actually work quite well), for those riders who do not care for engine guards Boot Draggers seem to be an ideal option. And of course they can also be used in conjunction with existing highway pegs for even greater alternative riding positions.
I read your blog, its really awesome, I love it.
Today’s motorcycle boots for men are more attractive and each one possesses a different character. Men’s motorcycle boots used to be all about safety and durability, but now, it has its own personal style.
I have a pair of Engineer Style boots that I got ten years ago and haven’t even made a dent in them. I guess I’m not giving the scooter any credit since I usually ride with sneakers. The rational being you don’t shift or brake like you do on a bike so it’s sometimes like being in a car. Now that I’ve added bikes to the mix the boots will get more use. I also don’t ride on ice or snow, like somebody I could mention, so foot dragging scarcely ever happens. I did use the boots though when I went to several Bike Nights with the scooter. I wanted to look like I was a serious rider.