Total Motorcycle Community Forums

You need some riding boots, what's gonna happen when you're on slick pavement and stop with them shoes on. Get something that covers your ankles too.

Mr. Invisible wrote:Try helmets from other brands. You will notice that the other brands will be like getting half sizes from each other. Also with glasses flip-ups are a lot easier to get on and off. I had trouble trying to poke the earpeaces in after I put the standard full face helmet on, and the flip up goes on without removing your glasses.

A doo rag helps too, keeps the helmet from folding your ears down as you put the helmet on as well as keeping the sweat out of your eyes as you ride.

Yea, not going to be buying another helmet anytime too soon. Next eye appointment probably get me some contacts. Though at lower speeds I prefer riding visor open, one benefit to glasses .

Superfly3176 wrote:You need some riding boots, what's gonna happen when you're on slick pavement and stop with them shoes on. Get something that covers your ankles too.

I do not understand the question. Stop on slick pavement? Are you implying my shoes do not have enough traction? As to ankle protection, its a difficult question. As with all safety gear its only safe if you wear it, and you are only going to wear it if its comfortable. Though before I even worry about finding comfortable shoes I need a job. I am a minimalist (both by choice and comfort), and absolutely the most picky guy when it comes to shoes ever. I have one pair of boots that would probably work okay but give me back problems if I wear them (not flat enough). My flat military pair would be great, but they are too big (toe is huge on that boot) and got in the way shifting the Nighthawk, I am sure they will be just as bad on the GS500.

I had told my dad the first thing on my birthday list is some riding shoes/boots, but in this weather I am thinking chaps or heated pant liners/pants. Already have a heated jacket thanks to hand-me-downs, but my torso is about the only thing that is not cold in this 40-degree weather.

Unfortunately I think shoes will take a long time to find, I have almost never been satisfied with clothes I have bought online, and I cannot stress how difficult I am when it comes to shoes- and so it will probably take some time with shops' limited inventories (I have worn a couple pairs to holes in the soles just because I could not find a comfortable replacement ).

i wear construction boots that have deep aggressive tread that are slip resistant. then i found a pair of magnums that are boots but look like shoes and are light, comfortable and have a composite toe; lighter than steel toe, not as bulky and just as strong. no real need for motorcycle specific as heavy duty work boots are just as good.

as for helmets the saying is that it should be snug but not so much to squish your cheeks real hard. cheap HJCs suck as I have one and will be getting another Nolan or upper range HJC because of comfort and noise. my old nolan n100e was quiet, comfortable and great for all types of weather but cost me $250. cheap helmets work just as well but sacrifice comfort and other extras...

riding pants would be a wise investment as they have knee and other padding. many are waterproof and shouldn't cost too much.

bing.com and newenough should have good prices on gear.

JC Viper wrote:i wear construction boots that have deep aggressive tread that are slip resistant. then i found a pair of magnums that are boots but look like shoes and are light, comfortable and have a composite toe; lighter than steel toe, not as bulky and just as strong. no real need for motorcycle specific as heavy duty work boots are just as good.

I have a pair of boots from work that are okay, but they are too aggressive in support and give me back problems. I have another pair of boots (old army winter boots, flat soled) that are better but the toe is even bigger than the steel toed boots, which gives me shifting problems. I saw some of those Magnums online at the place I got my helmet at. I did not get time to browse things other than helmets so looking forward to getting back out there to browse some more. I am also liking the look of Joe Rocket Velocity Shoes.

JC Viper wrote: riding pants would be a wise investment as they have knee and other padding. many are waterproof and shouldn't cost too much.

bing.com and newenough should have good prices on gear.

The thing I like about chaps is I can wear them on anything... definitely not as much protection, but I will probably be riding really daily and until I have a good enough job to get a few pairs of pants, one pair will not get me too far . Also intend to ride to work hopefully so chaps can easily slip over whatever pants the office requires . That and I hope to drop some more weight, so not plunging big bucks into gear that may not fit in a couple months yet. Though maybe that is wishful thinking .

I get nervous about buying gear like that online. I love the improved selection and prices, but I have not once in my life been pleased with clothes purchased online. I think it is Revzilla though gives a free exchange (including shipping!) if a size is not right. That would make me feel better.

the magnums are what i wear currently and the seem to fit more like sneakers than boots.
i know when i ordered from totalmotorcycle was that they sent a return label if you want to return or exchange (the have slots to fill in different part numbers). i haven't bought anything in months but maybe it's still the same.

JC Viper wrote:the magnums are what i wear currently and the seem to fit more like sneakers than boots.
i know when i ordered from totalmotorcycle was that they sent a return label if you want to return or exchange (the have slots to fill in different part numbers). i haven't bought anything in months but maybe it's still the same.

Most companies do that, its rarely paid for. Come to think of it I am not sure Revzilla even is, they may just offer free shipping on the exchanged item going back out to you, which would be more common.

Hey guys, if your helmets are pinching your cheeks I think you're wearing it at the wrong end. Just sayin.

Martin

Kingshead wrote:Hey guys, if your helmets are pinching your cheeks I think you're wearing it at the wrong end. Just sayin.

Martin

I only wear other people helmets like that. It's a hobby of mine.

Great thead for safety gear! (I've moved this thread to the Motorcycle Safety, Security and Rider Tips forum)

Sorry for not posting to this earlier but I see you have gotten some great suggestions and advice already.

For gear, here is what I have always worn: full face helmet, leather gloves, textile jacket (covers the bum a little), jeans and steel-toe contruction boots.

I have had an accident using the above gear and I was fine. I use the same jacket and boots still today. The steel-toe contruction boots really helped with the accident and after 11 years of owning them I need to buy a new pair next year, I will be looking for a more comfortable steel-toe contruction boot. (I've heard Red-Wings are a good brand?).

A helmet should press on your cheeks when new a little, but after a dozen or so times out with it it will loosen right up. If you buy a helmet that fits right (comfortable or loose) when it's new it will be too big inside in no time and that's not good.

Mike