Harley gear

[Dragon on Wheels]

Hi all,

I was wondering about people's opinions on Harley gear. I have a coupon for a somewhat local store and was thinking about going to take a look. However, I've heard that Harley has riding and non-riding gear and that they can be hard to differentiate. Is there any way to make sure I get the riding type? Also, how is the protection/comfort for their gear? There doesn't seem to be a lot of reviews for Harley gear. I'm mainly thinking of gloves, boots, and maybe a jacket and those sunglasses that are almost like goggles. Should I go with a different brand? Does the brand even matter or should I just check for comfort?

Another (perhaps strange) question: I don't own a Harley. Will people try to confront me physically (try to beat me up) if I wear this gear without riding a Harley or even a cruiser? I don't really care if they think I look weird, but I don't want to get into a fight about it.

Thanks in advance for all your input!

[Shorts]

lol Well the thing I don't .like about Harley gear is they have "HD" or "Harley Havidson" plastered all over it. Their riding gear, from what I tried on in a HD store was good. It was comfortable and adequate for protection. But, the reason I didn't buy was because of the logos all over it. We don't ride HD

Anyway, you'll be able to notice which is for casual wear, which is for riding. If you do need help, the clerks are usually friendly (been our experience anyway). The leather stuff (thicker) is adequate for riding. Of course, sleeves would be a plus lol

[Sev]

I don't think you'll get beat up, but you might get made fun of for wearing harley gear if you don't even ride a cruiser. Then again Harley seems to be a way of life, people who don't even ride will wear the gear.

As for telling the difference between their riding gear and general apparel, I'd just ask the salesman. But generally riding gear will feel a lot heavier and be double stitched at all the seams. You can usually tell by the weight of the coat.

I don't know if Harley makes armored gear, but after my get off I'm a big believer in it. Of all the injuries I suffered (not many) 2/3 could have been prevented with an armored jacket.

[Shorts]

I don't know if Harley makes armored gear, but after my get off I'm a big believer in it. Of all the injuries I suffered (not many) 2/3 could have been prevented with an armored jacket.

They do. One of the leather jackets I tried on was armored and it fit sooooo goood. The price wasn't too bad either. It was the logo that made it a no go Well that and it kinda got pushed up into my throat when I sat.

[blues2cruise]

If you do buy Harley gear, look for where it is made. For example, there have been problems with the leather jackets made in someplace like Pakistan because the stitching comes apart. The ones made in the USA are supposed to be better.

The same thing applies to the boots. Look for where they are made.

If you only want fun gear it won't matter. HD stores also carry helmets and accessories so you should have no problem spending your certificate.

[Scoutmedic]

I've got a pair of Harley boots. I like them a lot. They're zippered with extra leather on the toes where the shifter hits (it's on both boots for appearance). If I remember the tag right, they're made for Harley by Wolverine. The logos aren't too obtrusive. One on the laces that could be removed, one on the upper near the ankle and one on the sole.

[Flting Duck]

I suppose if you looked long enough and hard enough that you could find someone who would beat you up for wearing HD gear but I doubt you'll EVER find it a problem.

I have a few harley T-shirts I've been given as gifts that I sometimes wear under my jacket.(riding BMWs) When I take the jacket off, nobody seems to care.

Sure somebody might give you an odd look or a ribbing but I don't think it should matter to you. Heck, most people will probably assume that you've got a Harley in the garage as well as the bike you're riding since lots of riders have multiple bikes.

As for their gear, use your good judgement on quality - it should be apparent when you inspect the item closely. Ensuring a good, realitvely snug fit is important as you want the gear to stay where it is on the chance that you need it's protective features. Armored gear is better for obvious reasons.

Just don't get caught wearing Hells Angels "colors"(stuff with HA logos) - THAT is a serious offence which could get you quickly hospitalized.

[Koss]

Na you wont be beat up for it, but maybe teased a bit for not having a harley. Its all in good fun though.

I remember being in the Harley Davidson store in Las Vegas, and was talking with another rider about the bikes swinging on the conveyor a few feet above our heads.

The lady at the counter got this really excited look on her face, probably a new employee (I had a feeling the other people there have been traininer her a few days already)... asked us what Harleys we had. I immediatly responded, Oh I have a Lime Green Kawasaki waiting for me at home.

The whole store started cracking up and the cashier gave me a dazed look before laughing.

Ah... good times, good times. The Ninja strikes again!

[dr_bar]

I have a pair of Harley boots as well, I love the fit and I can walk in them almost all day. (I did at the bike show in January...) As for markings, unless someone knows who Willy G is, then that's all there is except for on the sole and insole...

[ofblong]

I have heated gloves that say HD on them and I ride a Honda. Why did I get HD heated gloves you ask? because my in-laws dont shop online and the local HD shop was the only one that carried them in stock and I got them for christmas from my in-laws .