I will be getting my first bike fairly soon and I have read a lot of differing opinions in different places about "proper riding Gear".
As a new rider I dont want to look like a dumbazz biker wannabe!!
All I am concerned with is getting what I need. I have read comments that to ride you have to have boots, others say no, some ride with leather vests, that's cool, but necessary? Anyway, just curious what others here think.
Thanks!

 

I have never worried about being a wannabe, and maybe I'm. When the wife said I could get a bike because the kids were getting older, I decided that I would only ride with full leather jacket, full face helmet, jeans, boots, and gloves.

The group I ride with has riders in T-shirts and tennis shoes and just about everything else in between. Wear what you are comfortable with and forget what others think.

 

Welcome to the board.

Like someone once said..."protect only those things that you want to keep..."

With that said, there's lots of different definitions of protection. Protection from heat, cold, rain, impact, abrasion...you get the idea. Each has its unique requirements so you'll have to decide.

Read, study, compare...

Good luck!

 

I would consider boots to be the most important item, just after a helmet.

 

You need to take a new rider course, they'll teach you everything you want to know about protective gear... Are you active duty Army? If so, you'll have to take the class before you can ride on post. You'll learn a lot. From my view point, boots are a given, but some of the pros in here will chime in that they wear flip flops and if you don't, you're a poser... consider your sources carefully.

 

1) Quality leather jacket
2) Good motorcycle helmet 1/2, 3/4 or full face
3) Quality glasses and or goggles
4) Good pair of gloves
5) Good pair of boots above the ankle

Thank you for your service to our country. Enjoy your new bike and ride SAFE. Welcome to HDForums from So. Md.

 

'Dress for the slide and not the ride"

I am a firm believer in proper protection. Looks do not matter so if I look like a poser in my leather chaps, leather jackets (mesh armored in summer) so be it. In addition to the above I ride with a full face, boots and gloves.

but to each his own

r.todd

 

It all depends on whether or not u plan on crashing. The first time u lay it down hard u will wish that you had it all on....then some!

 

Mesh jacket for the summer, good gloves, solid boots, Leather...I have been told i look like a Village people by a ATTGATT BMW rider that looked like he hadn't seen sun for 10 years. As if i gave a Sh&$... I laughed at him cuz i thought it was funny. I really couldn't give a flying turd what anybody thinks what i look like...I feel good when i ride when i am warm n safe or cool and safe....

 

The gear required for you to attend the Basic Rider Course is a good starting point.