Let's talk Motorcycle Gear - ideas & suggestions
 

So I just placed my first order for motorcycle boots, the SIDI "Way" models.
http://www.newenough.com/image/path/5257/Default.jpg


What about pants? Even riding in 60 degree weather, 2 layers, fleece under jeans, I'm still cold... ideas ?


What about gloves? I'm looking for a nice pair that are not too big or bulky, that I can easily work the controls easily.
I hear that leather is not good for the colder months because it gets cold and compresses, therefore stiffens up. would you recommend glove liners like fleece and then wear summer gloves over that ?

Thanks in advance.

Well IMO you still need the hand protection that leather offers. There are good leather gloves with thinsulate insulation that still allow a good feel. I prefer those with thicker backs and thinner palms. Of course my bike has heated handgrips as well.

As for pants, Joe Rocket has a very good offering of textiles with armor. You need to deal with the GEEK factor but the pants are very good.

First off, if you're riding in jeans, you haven't been listening to the advice this board has been giving you. Your jeans might hold up as well as lacy panties if you ever go down on asphalt at speed. Go buy some real motorcycling pants. I have a pair of cordura (kinda like the material used in backpacks, but tougher) overpants. They're supposed to be worn over regular street clothes, so it's perfect for commuting. Windproof and virtually waterproof. I have Aerostich Dariens, but I think TourMaster has a line of cordura overpants (Cortech?) that I frequently used to see for about $140.

I'm fine with long gauntlet leather gloves. For cold or wet weather, I slip on a pair of those exam gloves used in hospitals. Buy a box and they're pennies apiece. I have to admit that my hands do get a little cold, but that's in temps in the 30-40 degree range. I wear the same pair of gloves year round, and have never felt them to be too warm/sweaty during the summer. YMMV.

I also have the Coretech riding over pants with armor. I have an armored and lined BMW Jacket and also an armored leather riding jacket.

I have a bunch of different gloves from full length armored leather gloves, to leather lined winter gloves.

I won't rag on you for getting cold in 60 degree weather, but if you don't get some real riding gear, when it gets cold, you are in trouble.

Bill

Agreed and I was going to post some pointers, but he is not going to listen to what we say, so why waste our time?

you're never wasting your time . this is a public forum,. no ?

Arent you a Moderator yet?

no sir! I'm still working on my qualifications and training :)

We wondered what you were doing bent over and waiting... now we know.

Believe that the thread you are talking about was "pruned" of the objectional materials that you posted, then locked to keep you from making more of an a$$ out of yourself than normal.

Keep trying though and a real Moderator will let you know when you have reached the limits...

You have gotten some good advice on both pants and gloves, on-ramp. The textiles are really taking off these days and have a lot going for them over leathers. Myself, being somewhat of a traditionalist, I still prefer leather. It just seems warmer, more comfortable, and "friendlier" if that makes sense. It forms to you over time, smells good, and does not have that crispy slick as glass finish.

A quality garment in either flavor will protect you as well as the other, so that should not drive your decision. The textiles are more waterproof, if that is important to you. As far as the gloves, whether you choose textile or leather for the rest of your riding kit, most folks still go leather. It seems the textile gloves are noticably more bulky for the same warmth and protection.

Just go out and try on a few at the local shops. There is really no "right" or "wrong" answer as long as you choose quality gear with some armour in it. Your tastes are bound to change over time anyway, so just get something you like for now. As you ride in it you will soon discover what you like or do not like. It's a very individual thing.