Triumphrat

Paddyboy30 · 08-20-2008, 04:09 PM

I know it's August, but it's been really mild here around Philadelphia, with sunrise rides around 55 degrees, and I've been getting a little chilly on my 70mph highway rides to work. I always wear at least full jeans, and a lined Cortech perforated leather jacket, but even that's been a little on the cool side after about 10 minutes. When winter comes with even lower temps, I wonder what I might be able to use in the real cold. I was looking at something like a B-3 Bomber Jacket and maybe sewing in some armor pockets. Does anyone have experience with this kind of WWII style jacket, or any good suggestions for cold weather wear? It's never too early to start looking! Thanks!

Kurt V · 08-20-2008, 05:00 PM

Get a jacket designed for wear with a motorcycle. I wear a leather jacket until the temps get down to around 40 and then go to a textile jacket. You can find both at reasonable prices here: http://newenough.com/protective_apparel/

Medic09 · 08-20-2008, 05:39 PM

I'm with Kurt. And I also like New Enough. Good service and fast shipping. Another good vendor is this guy: Robbie Acevedo

Helmets U.S.A
PH (561) 255-2500
FX (330) 758-8944
www.shoeihelmetsusa.com
shoeihelmet@aol.com

Tell him you're price shopping and see if he can beat the market.

I ride as long as there's no ice on the road. Morning temps in the 30s in the winter. That can mean fleece tops and bottoms over street clothes, and textile or lined leather jacket and pants over all of that. Balaclava under the helmet makes a big difference. Electric vest is nice. I finally got one for myself and my wife last year. Insulated gloves with thin liners added. That does it for the hour back and forth on the interstate.

Any time is the right time for buying gear.

Paddyboy30 · 08-20-2008, 06:44 PM

You've got that right! I just got a set of knee and shin pads (luckily they're pretty cheap), and that'll help my cold-sensitive knees in the mornings! I'd really like to stick with a leather jacket, especially a throwback like the bomber, but I definitely hear what you're saying about the modern textile jackets. I have a head sock that I've used for running in the cold that I'm planning to wear under my helmet. I'm also looking at getting a new helmet too....Looks like I need a job just to afford all my new stuff!!!

Medic09 · 08-20-2008, 07:48 PM

Ya know, Paddy, sometimes I wear my leather jacket just because I like leather. If you're wearing layers under the jacket, it may be that the armour isn't as important as in warmer weather. The old sheep wool lined bombers were pretty thick, too. OTOH, textiles are often more versatile, better in the wet, and have good pockets for touring. I have an Aerostich Darien jacket, which is great but will break the bank. Tour Master just came out with something new that looks good, and is a lot less expensive. My wife and I have had good luck with their stuff.

Something else to consider is a one-piece suit. I have an old Triumph Aspen suit which is great. Even had a removable snowmobile type liner. Shame they stopped making them. There are other brands out there. When it is really cold and wet there is nothing like good coverage.

jenglandtoyman · 08-21-2008, 08:25 AM

I have a Tourmaster Tech which is an older model 3/4 length which has kept hypothermia at bay on an hour ride at 6 Degrees (F). The 3/4 makes a difference to me. My wife's Kilamanjaro from Firstgear may be even better but she's too smart to get on with me in those conditions! I married up.

Medic09 · 08-21-2008, 08:52 AM

Rider magazine just arrived in the mail, and there's a piece about riding suits. A good jacket and pants with fleece underneath can do a world of good!

RGood · 09-24-2008, 12:02 PM

Is textile better than leather in the Winter?

I am in the same boat. In Indianapolis and figure I will ride into the 40's I have a lined water proof set of pants but need a similar jacket and was wondering what Winter Jacket to get.

Textile or Leather?

Kurt V · 09-24-2008, 04:30 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by RGood

Is textile better than leather in the Winter?

I am in the same boat. In Indianapolis and figure I will ride into the 40's I have a lined water proof set of pants but need a similar jacket and was wondering what Winter Jacket to get.

Textile or Leather?

I think textile is better when it is really cool out. It doesn't fit as tight as a leather coat does and that air space gives you more insulation. Plus leather gets really stiff when it is cold out!

RGood · 10-02-2008, 09:25 PM

Thanks for the info Kurt. I too your advice and bought a textile Jacket. Because I was not sure what to expect I decided to not spend a ton of money on this jacket since I did spend a ton on my mesh Triumph summer jacket.

I ended up getting the EXL-MJ509 from MotoDirect
http://www.motodirect.com/servlet/Detail?no=811

All said and done Jacket, Tax, and Shipping, the total was around 87 dollars US.

AS it turms out we have unseasonably cold weather in Indy this week. Down to 43 degress F this morning and running 70-75 mphs with a 10-15 mph headwind.

This jacket zips down to a mesh jacket as well. Has a zip out liner and is very warm. I ride with a backpack and was still comfortable. The only complaint I have is there is no straps or velcro around the cuff of the arms. This allows air up the arm. This is an easy fix. The jacket also has solid pads.

Overall I am very impresses with the quality of this Jacket for the price. I would give it 4.5 out 5 stars.