Shorts wrote:I saw an excellent writeup/comparison on modular helmets in the last few months of CycleWorld or MotorCyclist. Anyone have their copy? (I cleaned and threw mine out!)
Looks like there are a lot of options out there, most of which don't cost $400. There's quite a bit available under a $200 street price.
Dean : I'd recommend not getting too hung up on a color where helmets are concerned. First priority should be that it protects you (DOT or Snell rated). Next, it should fit your head just right (you may have to wear it for hours). Color comes way down on the list.
There is alot to consider when looking at gear. Everything has pros and cons.
I would dispute the claim that you need a leather jacket with insulation for the cold. I've been a straight textile wearer for it's versatility and I've had no complaints.
1.) It is possible to talk them down a bit on an expensive item or when gettings a few items. I doubt you'll get them below 10-15% though
2.) AS mentioned helmets don't just come in one color and you can add reflective stickers if need be. However, there are quite a few good modular helmets out there. I've heard good things about Shoei, the hjc Symax and the nolan something or another.
3.) I'm from SE Virginia and we have a very similar weather pattern to most of NC. I think it's very hard to find gear that works well for a full 4 seasons that's affordable. Starting off you want to get what works best for now. You're opinions on what you want in gear will change a bit in your first year or so. I am upgrading from joe rocket mesh to the gx air mesh for this summer and I plan to stay with my Joe Rocket ballistic jacket and pants for the winter unless I upgrade to a roadcrafter suit. REmember that you can always layer in the winter (and should) to stay warm. IF need be add electrics.
4.) There are many styles of m/c pants. I wear jeans sometimes on my ride to work as I rarely get over 35 mph and I'm ok with that risk. Whenever I'm on a long trip or on teh interstate I always use m/c specific pants be those my mesh pants for the summer, or my ballistic pants in the winter. I'm skeptical of kevlar pants as I'd prefer to have abrasion resistance as well as armor. Riding pants don't all look like parachute pants or even snowpants. Some are slim fitting others are baggy. Check the many manufacturers.
There isn't a master brand for perfect gear. Many manufacturers make quality stuff. AeroStitch, Tourmaster, Cortech, Olympia, Alpine star, Joe Rocket to name a few.
Agreed there is no perfect manufacturer for all things motorcycle.....
However, chasetheace08 got me thinking; "What are the more well-respected/regarded brands out there for the different bike-related stuff?" I know it's a matter of personal opinion/experience, but it would serve us newb's good to hear what brands to look for and what brands we can trust for the most part.
Might as well post it here....(Keep in mind I said "well-respected/regarded" not "best", so no flaming and carrying on.)
