Riding gear recomendations

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Noob4.0 · #1 Unread post by **Noob4.0** » Fri May 19, 2006 2:58 am

I am currently learning how to ride a bike and am wondering recommendations for good protection. I am looking at a joe rocket phoenix 4.0 at the local honda store. It seems to offer better protection and ventilation without destroying my budget but I am worried about if the jacket can hold up if i take a minor spill. Any advice?

#2 Unread post by **bok** » Fri May 19, 2006 3:04 am

i'm sure it's fine for a minor spill. if you are just learning make sure you have some decent boots with ankle support as well, since many people overlook the need for good footwear. There are a few folks round here that have that jacket and i am sure they will chime in with actual firsthand knowledge, but it should be good for what you need.

dieziege · #3 Unread post by **dieziege** » Fri May 19, 2006 5:07 am

I have the phoenix 4.0. It is my primary jacket right now.

It is way better protection than a t-shirt and about as warm. Any sort of breeze will blow right through it... which is really good if you are in a warm area (which I am). You can actually walk around wearing it without being too uncomfortable even on hot days. Once you are moving the air just blows straight through. Comfort tapers off quickly as the temps go down. Riding in to work today (temperature was officially 61f) I was a bit cooler than I might like but comfortable with the rain liner in...anything colder and you are going to wish for a sweater.

The mesh seems like it would rip up pretty quick if dragged over rough pavement. I've never tested it of course. I see it as a way to hold back/shoulder/elbow pads in place and offer a little bit of bug-impact protection, and, as I said, it beats a t-shirt.