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I bought a set of leather chaps a few years ago (black of course lol). I've always thought that chaps look kinda goofy, and I really don't like wearing them. But, I'm here to tell ya, they do what they're supposed to do. I was in a very bad crash in 2002-and because it was a little chilly that day, I was wearing my chaps. Went down, still on the bike, skidding (bike in front). Somehow, I got flipped over the bike, and it started rolling. Well the rear footpeg caught me right in the middle of my inner thigh-made a small rupture in my femoral artery. Bad enough, but I am convinced that if I had not been wearing those chaps the footpeg would have punched through my skin, and I would have bled out. So, yes-chaps are goofy looking, but they will save your life.

My 2 cents

I have two pair of chaps . One that I had custom made about 10 years or so ago that I will never out grow because of the way they are made . And this summer I inherited a pair of HD chaps . So the way that I see it I'm covered for the rest of my life . I like the comfort as well as the looks of them . As well as the protection they afford me . Altho I only wear them during the winter months .
Regards, Wizzard

Chaps also have the advantage over pants that you can take em off at your destination and have regular pants underneth.

I know it was a while ago wizzard, but what do you reckon it would cost to get some custom chaps made - any ideas?

Chaps are goofie looking , I kinda like them.

I never appreciated the look of chaps. I have textile overpants which you can wear pants under. They are easy to take on and off, have built in armor, has rider positioned pockets, are waterproof, zip into my jacket and cover my butt.

I wear black icon jeans under my chaps, and they just look like leather pants until close up. They're off all summer, anyway. I'm on the bike when I wear them, or only going inside to take them off, so looks are no big deal. I've been told they look okay, though.

I havea pair of chaps, but I don't wear them anymore. I picked up a set of Icon Barrier jeans which I find are more comfortable, and feel just as sturdy. Plus they are warmer to ride in and cooler to walk around in. I love them, and I'm going to add a couple more pairs to my wardrobe as money permits.

On long trips that I know will be cold I wear my chaps, but I find that they are more of a hassle for short trips because I want to take them off as soon as I get off. And I hate having to carry them around. They are heavy and awkward. Obviously my bike lacks saddlebags, and I've basically stopped using my tank bag because it was putting small scratches onto my tank which I've spent a LOT of time trying to remove. They're coming out... but slowly.

Chaps are like wearing a short-sleeved jacket. I can't see the point of them.

cb360 wrote:I know it was a while ago wizzard, but what do you reckon it would cost to get some custom chaps made - any ideas?

Find a friend that works with leather . That's what I did . I really don't remember if they even cost me at all . It was a Sister in the previous club I rode with . Each piece is an individual leg with a fold and snap that overlaps my belt . As per normal they zip up the sides .
Regards, Wizzard