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Just purchased a pair of Raptors from my dealer...$139.
I have also owned a pair of Triumph Expedition winter pants and will compare what I've learned.
Size:
I have 32" waist so I bought a 34" Raptor to fit over jeans and shorts.
Fit:
When riding with shorts underneath, it is impressive how snug they fit despite being a size larger; not tight, but not loose either. I find it best to lay the pants over my riding boots. Knee armour also fits snugly with shorts on and does not seem like it would roll during an impact. Once situated and riding, I was quite comfortable and did not feel the need to continually readjust the armor.
Armor:
The Raptors utilize Knox padded hips and armored knees and are CE approved. The knee armor sits low while standing but aligns perfectly when seated on the bike. After a quick feel around the inside knee area, I am unsure as to whether the knee armor is adjustable. The hip pads fit snugly and find the need to make adjustments after seated for a minute or two. Once adjusted for the seated position, they are quite comfortable.
Material and design:
The Raptor is an all black design with no reflective material. Along with the pant being mesh lined with a supple material, there is mesh located on the thighs fore legs and from the calves up the back of the legs. The rest is made of double stitched Cordura and feels very strong. Front pockets have a zipper and are mesh lined which may allow for further venting if left opened. The ankles have a 6" zipper with velcro strap. There is also a zipper on the back near the butt to attach to Triumph jackets.
Cooling & Effectiveness:
These pants are warm while standing in the sun. However, when riding on a 75F day, I notice airflows nicely through the pants allowing my legs to breathe and wik away any sweat. The pants breathed enough to even feel the heat coming off the engine at slower speeds. Ironically, I was caught in a 20 min. rain storm and discovered tht aside from my upper body being soaked, my legs remained quite dry when I got home. I did have wetness around the thigh of my left leg (probably due to the rain coming from that side) but my lower legs were completely dry.
Feel and Satisfaction:
Although I have never tried other brands of riding pants, I am satisfied with the construction and fit of these pants and would purchase again if needed.
Changes:
The only change I would suggest is to add knee puck capabilities on the outside of these pants.
Hope this helps
Sport
[ This message was edited by: Sport on 2007-05-13 05:39 ]
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