Thread Starter
#1
Any riding gear has to serve the following functions:
Protection – from a fall (abrasion and impact) and from weather
Comfort – in fit and function
Style – an entirely personal subject
Abrasion protection
This has to be built in the outer layer of the garment both in terms of the material and the stitching. Currently leather is the best bet and many of the top brands feature good stitching, go in for at least double or triple stitched garments. The fit of the garment is very important as well.
Impact protection
Many a times this is a function of the protectors used and fit of the garment is important as well because it helps keep the protector where it’s supposed to be. Go in for CE approved Armour. Most jackets will not have CE approved Armour for the back and many a times this has to be purchased separately.
Ventilation
While being hot might not impair you physically it can cause your patience and energy to drain at a much faster rate. Most of Indian riding conditions are very hot and a jacket with a lining could become uncomfortably hot. A jacket with large vents in chest, arms and back or a mesh jacket or a perforated leather jacket will allow adequate air flow. Similarly chose pants with large vents or mesh or made from perforated leather.
Weather protection
Cold impairs body functions and it’s as good or bad as being drunk or sleepy on the bike. However cold is easily overcome by wearing additional layers of clothing, but you have to be careful to see that it does not bind or inhibit movement. Another problem for a motorcyclist is getting wet; once wet, the cold is bound to follow. Waterproofing can be integrated into the garment, like a waterproof riding jacket or waterproof riding pant or can be fulfilled by a dedicated garment over the standard riding kit. For example, a leather riding jacket and pants and a one or two piece raincoat that you wear only if it starts to rain.
Comfort
A rider’s safety is compromised if a rider is uncomfortable. While choosing a garment, ensure that you do not have to sacrifice too much protection for comfort. A mesh or perforated leather jacket and pants can be used in combination with thermal and waterproof layers to give more flexibility to your riding gear.
Quality riding gear is hard to find in India and the best option is to order from international outlets. You can ask a friend to carry it for you or some outlets also ship to India. MotorcycleGear.com (the new name of New Enough) :: Motorcycle Jackets, Helmets, Gloves, Boots, Luggage, Parts and More! is one such outlet but you could find many more.
In case this is not possible please follow the guidelines to equip yourself locally:
The temperature throughout Rann is expected to vary between min 15 degree C to max 35 degree C daily. There will be plenty of sun during the day.
Feet
In the absence of proper motorcycling boots look out for a pair of strong leather anklets (canvas jungle boots are a big NO), with a flat sole or a gentle heel. Attention to the fit is important as you might be spending your entire day in them. We suggest you choose a slightly loose fit that can accommodate your feet comfortably. In case you are not wearing heavy socks, an insole can be used to make the fit snug. Chose designs that are likely to dry quickly and carry a spare pair of socks in case the ones you are wearing get wet. If the shoe is not so comfortable when off the bike, carry a spare pair of sneakers or floaters for walking.
Torso
It’s best to start with a sweat absorbing/ wicking material next to your skin. This could be simple cotton full/ half sleeves banyan or some of the more modern materials which allow your skin to breathe. The fit should be body hugging, yet not constricting or uncomfortable. Then use a leather jacket or an extremely strong fabric jacket. Your torso plays an important part in keeping cool, so look for a well ventilated design. You would finally require a waterproof jacket in case of rain. Try to ensure that your clothing catches as little air as possible when riding (should not flap or bloat up), this would involve proper fitting at the torso and air vents at the back.
You could wear elbow, shoulder, back and rib cage protectors either between your layers or over your clothing.
Legs
For protection you could wear knee, shin and ankle protectors either over or under your pants. Riding pants have inbuilt hip and knee guards and provide abrasion resistance. For rain you should be prepared with a pair of waterproof outer. Pay attention to adequate length/fit so that your pants do not ride up your leg when you sit on the bike. Some fastening system at the bottom could also be beneficial. You could also wear a belt or riding belt to comfort your back from the shocks and the cold.
Head and eyes
A good quality full face fiberglass helmet with the right fit serves not only to protect you from impact but also the elements. In the Tour of Rann you will encounter sand and dust, a scarf or a balaclava could serve to protect you from these and also provide a snugger fit for your helmet. It also keeps your skin fresh and protected and this in turn reduces your fatigue. On a long cross country trip like this it makes a lot of difference.
Although the ride plan does not include any night riding, you might encounter night riding or riding in poor visibility. For such conditions, it is best to be prepared with a clear visor. You can even carry a spare visor if needed. The sun can be very bright hence goggles with good UV protection can offer a lot of comfort to your eyes and reduce fatigue. The goggles can be worn inside your helmet and visor and removed whenever needed. Motocross helmet and goggles will compromise weather protection, and could be unsuitable at high speeds.
Hands
If purpose built motorcycle gloves are not available then you could wear full length leather gloves, to protect you from impact. Choose a pair that has a long cuff so it protects your wrist and allows for good sealing between your gloves and jacket sleeves. Some people use surgical gloves or other latex, rubber based work gloves in addition to the above mentioned, to tackle the waterproofing aspect, some use wax to seal the seams.
source - royalenfield.com
Protection – from a fall (abrasion and impact) and from weather
Comfort – in fit and function
Style – an entirely personal subject
Abrasion protection
This has to be built in the outer layer of the garment both in terms of the material and the stitching. Currently leather is the best bet and many of the top brands feature good stitching, go in for at least double or triple stitched garments. The fit of the garment is very important as well.
Impact protection
Many a times this is a function of the protectors used and fit of the garment is important as well because it helps keep the protector where it’s supposed to be. Go in for CE approved Armour. Most jackets will not have CE approved Armour for the back and many a times this has to be purchased separately.
Ventilation
While being hot might not impair you physically it can cause your patience and energy to drain at a much faster rate. Most of Indian riding conditions are very hot and a jacket with a lining could become uncomfortably hot. A jacket with large vents in chest, arms and back or a mesh jacket or a perforated leather jacket will allow adequate air flow. Similarly chose pants with large vents or mesh or made from perforated leather.
Weather protection
Cold impairs body functions and it’s as good or bad as being drunk or sleepy on the bike. However cold is easily overcome by wearing additional layers of clothing, but you have to be careful to see that it does not bind or inhibit movement. Another problem for a motorcyclist is getting wet; once wet, the cold is bound to follow. Waterproofing can be integrated into the garment, like a waterproof riding jacket or waterproof riding pant or can be fulfilled by a dedicated garment over the standard riding kit. For example, a leather riding jacket and pants and a one or two piece raincoat that you wear only if it starts to rain.
Comfort
A rider’s safety is compromised if a rider is uncomfortable. While choosing a garment, ensure that you do not have to sacrifice too much protection for comfort. A mesh or perforated leather jacket and pants can be used in combination with thermal and waterproof layers to give more flexibility to your riding gear.
Quality riding gear is hard to find in India and the best option is to order from international outlets. You can ask a friend to carry it for you or some outlets also ship to India. MotorcycleGear.com (the new name of New Enough) :: Motorcycle Jackets, Helmets, Gloves, Boots, Luggage, Parts and More! is one such outlet but you could find many more.
In case this is not possible please follow the guidelines to equip yourself locally:
The temperature throughout Rann is expected to vary between min 15 degree C to max 35 degree C daily. There will be plenty of sun during the day.
Feet
In the absence of proper motorcycling boots look out for a pair of strong leather anklets (canvas jungle boots are a big NO), with a flat sole or a gentle heel. Attention to the fit is important as you might be spending your entire day in them. We suggest you choose a slightly loose fit that can accommodate your feet comfortably. In case you are not wearing heavy socks, an insole can be used to make the fit snug. Chose designs that are likely to dry quickly and carry a spare pair of socks in case the ones you are wearing get wet. If the shoe is not so comfortable when off the bike, carry a spare pair of sneakers or floaters for walking.
Torso
It’s best to start with a sweat absorbing/ wicking material next to your skin. This could be simple cotton full/ half sleeves banyan or some of the more modern materials which allow your skin to breathe. The fit should be body hugging, yet not constricting or uncomfortable. Then use a leather jacket or an extremely strong fabric jacket. Your torso plays an important part in keeping cool, so look for a well ventilated design. You would finally require a waterproof jacket in case of rain. Try to ensure that your clothing catches as little air as possible when riding (should not flap or bloat up), this would involve proper fitting at the torso and air vents at the back.
You could wear elbow, shoulder, back and rib cage protectors either between your layers or over your clothing.
Legs
For protection you could wear knee, shin and ankle protectors either over or under your pants. Riding pants have inbuilt hip and knee guards and provide abrasion resistance. For rain you should be prepared with a pair of waterproof outer. Pay attention to adequate length/fit so that your pants do not ride up your leg when you sit on the bike. Some fastening system at the bottom could also be beneficial. You could also wear a belt or riding belt to comfort your back from the shocks and the cold.
Head and eyes
A good quality full face fiberglass helmet with the right fit serves not only to protect you from impact but also the elements. In the Tour of Rann you will encounter sand and dust, a scarf or a balaclava could serve to protect you from these and also provide a snugger fit for your helmet. It also keeps your skin fresh and protected and this in turn reduces your fatigue. On a long cross country trip like this it makes a lot of difference.
Although the ride plan does not include any night riding, you might encounter night riding or riding in poor visibility. For such conditions, it is best to be prepared with a clear visor. You can even carry a spare visor if needed. The sun can be very bright hence goggles with good UV protection can offer a lot of comfort to your eyes and reduce fatigue. The goggles can be worn inside your helmet and visor and removed whenever needed. Motocross helmet and goggles will compromise weather protection, and could be unsuitable at high speeds.
Hands
If purpose built motorcycle gloves are not available then you could wear full length leather gloves, to protect you from impact. Choose a pair that has a long cuff so it protects your wrist and allows for good sealing between your gloves and jacket sleeves. Some people use surgical gloves or other latex, rubber based work gloves in addition to the above mentioned, to tackle the waterproofing aspect, some use wax to seal the seams.
source - royalenfield.com