As a newbie who's recently been bitten by this sport, most of my research seems to net more questions than answers so I was hoping to take advantage of the vast amount of experience found on this site.
Quick synopsis of where I am as a rider: Presently don't own a bike and have zero seat time. Per some charitable direction from ElJeffe and others here, the game plan is to take the intro MSF class, buy a starter bike (something small and manageable), ride for a year, take the advanced MSF course and then - maybe look at buying my desired BMW (K1200GT).
I've contributed to this site for all the fabulous information I've already ingested and will be signing up for that beginners MSF class some time in March. On another post I was given a few great tips on buying a helmet locally which shall be done in the next day or so. The MSF class also requires over the ankle boots and gloves which possibly may be a separate thread if this goes well.
My specific question is this: What sort of riding protection should I be considering? Understanding that flip-flops, shorts and a tank top are sheer lunacy what should I be pondering for a future rider with these requirements:
• I live in Texas where we mostly have two seasons: hot & hotter. Today it's in the low 30's with sleet & snow, and even a fully optioned BMW with heated grips/seats won't get me out in this weather. I wish to ride mostly during the more pleasant months.
• I want to take long trips discovering this fine nation but plan on doing a fair amount of in town riding at first.
• Will be riding alone as the wife has no desire to get near any bike.
• Will likely refrain from riding at night and in the rain until a bit of experience is under my belt. I see all you out there shaking your head about my intention to try and stay out of the rain…
• Would like to buy garments of quality that will last but I hardly need nor do I think it’s appropriate for me to score the Rolls Royce of anything.
With that in mind I’ve been looking at two piece leathers such as Vansons or Alpinestars. Overkill for a fortysomething white guy who is a father of two? I’m certainly not considering the wild race suits, but would an understated Vanson ventilated coat simply be useless during a Texas summer?
What about Aerostich? Perhaps not the most flattering look but the idea is to ride comfortably with the proper protection in case of a fall. Goodness, their catalog alone is enough to overwhelm this inexperienced rider…
Sorry to go on for so long. Your direction and opinions are most appreciated.
Regards,
David
Quick synopsis of where I am as a rider: Presently don't own a bike and have zero seat time. Per some charitable direction from ElJeffe and others here, the game plan is to take the intro MSF class, buy a starter bike (something small and manageable), ride for a year, take the advanced MSF course and then - maybe look at buying my desired BMW (K1200GT).
I've contributed to this site for all the fabulous information I've already ingested and will be signing up for that beginners MSF class some time in March. On another post I was given a few great tips on buying a helmet locally which shall be done in the next day or so. The MSF class also requires over the ankle boots and gloves which possibly may be a separate thread if this goes well.
My specific question is this: What sort of riding protection should I be considering? Understanding that flip-flops, shorts and a tank top are sheer lunacy what should I be pondering for a future rider with these requirements:
• I live in Texas where we mostly have two seasons: hot & hotter. Today it's in the low 30's with sleet & snow, and even a fully optioned BMW with heated grips/seats won't get me out in this weather. I wish to ride mostly during the more pleasant months.
• I want to take long trips discovering this fine nation but plan on doing a fair amount of in town riding at first.
• Will be riding alone as the wife has no desire to get near any bike.
• Will likely refrain from riding at night and in the rain until a bit of experience is under my belt. I see all you out there shaking your head about my intention to try and stay out of the rain…
• Would like to buy garments of quality that will last but I hardly need nor do I think it’s appropriate for me to score the Rolls Royce of anything.
With that in mind I’ve been looking at two piece leathers such as Vansons or Alpinestars. Overkill for a fortysomething white guy who is a father of two? I’m certainly not considering the wild race suits, but would an understated Vanson ventilated coat simply be useless during a Texas summer?
What about Aerostich? Perhaps not the most flattering look but the idea is to ride comfortably with the proper protection in case of a fall. Goodness, their catalog alone is enough to overwhelm this inexperienced rider…
Sorry to go on for so long. Your direction and opinions are most appreciated.
Regards,
David