Topic: Hot Weather Riding Gear---2008 (Read 12309 times)

Banana man · « **on:** June 05, 2008, 11:24:59 AM »

Well it is summer time again and I thought some of you might want
to post about new hot weather riding gear.

I am looking for a good riding jacket for 85 to 100 degrees and 90%
humidity. I mainly want to keep the sunburn and windburn off this
year and try to stay cool at the same time. Any suggestions?

Mark

Sean M Cary · « **Reply #1 on:** June 05, 2008, 11:39:14 AM »

Quote from: Banana man on June 05, 2008, 11:24:59 AM

Well it is summer time again and I thought some of you might want
to post about new hot weather riding gear.

I am looking for a good riding jacket for 85 to 100 degrees and 90%
humidity. I mainly want to keep the sunburn and windburn off this
year and try to stay cool at the same time. Any suggestions?

Mark

I finally succumbed to the 1/2 helmet urge yesterday, due to the heat, my FF was KILLING ME - scored a Vega XTS on my way home - $32 and change.

I wear long sleeve T-Shirts...not much protection, but even that is hot - 95+ yesterday. Have to cover up for Base regs, so I am wearing the T-shirt with Levis' not sure what else would qualify.

Sean

J-Carr · « **Reply #2 on:** June 05, 2008, 04:07:38 PM »

I'm wearing the HD Switchback nylon coat. I unzip the outer shell when it gets above 70-75 and so far have ridden with it on with the temp guage in Nemo reading about 90. It's more comfortable then the aftermarket mesh coats I've had in the past as the in mesh is a silky liner and instead of the hard nylon of the outer mesh. I wear fingerless gloves and and modular flip helmet with the flip always up until I get caught int the rain. With it up it acts as a sun visor keeping my face a bit cooler then the half helmet I wear sometimes. The rest of the head gets a little hotter in that helmet though. I hear alot of people complaining about the wind buffeting with the flip up like I keep it, but It doesn't hit on mine. I guess my windhield height/riding position takes enough wind over the top. Jeans and waterproof leather riding boots finish off my riding gear.

I carry my FXRG pants as my rain pants in the summer. Everyone thinks I'm nuts because they're the same pants I wear when it's 10 degrees and I'm riding in January, but with the vents open on the side they're cooler then the other rain gear I've had and I don't have to keep taking them on and off on those "Isolated" T-Storm days in the summer. The switch back coat has a waterproof liner that you can through on, but to be honest if I know it's gonna be gully washer day I just wear the FXRG coat with the vents open and the front mostly unzipped until the rain starts.

If anyone has tried those new vests that you soak first and then the crystals absorb the moisture and keep you cool for awhile please respond in here and let us know. I like to have gear for all occasions and that seems pretty cool if it works. Thanks!

Ride Safe,
J-Carr

BayouBiker · « **Reply #3 on:** June 05, 2008, 04:32:45 PM »

Quote from: J-Carr on June 05, 2008, 04:07:38 PM

If anyone has tried those new vests that you soak first and then the crystals absorb the moisture and keep you cool for awhile please respond in here and let us know. I like to have gear for all occasions and that seems pretty cool if it works. Thanks!

I just got one of the H-D 'H2O Hydration' vests last week ($45 msrp).
link to the item on H-D site here:
http://www.harley-davidson.com/mcm/mcm_product.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524448771686&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302502367&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=2534374302502367&bmUID=1212697482385&bmLocale=en_US

Here in SE Louisiana, our heat index has been over 100 the last couple days w/ambient temp of 92!
The vest works good, although the instructions say it will only last for approx 1yr or 50 uses.
My neck wrap that works on the same principle has lasted about 3 yrs so far...

I wear it over a silk-type t-shirt & under a light Columbia long-sleeve button shirt.
I would recommend it to anybody riding distance in high temps.

JCZ · « **Reply #4 on:** June 05, 2008, 06:40:43 PM »

A Nolan flip face with the 80% UA/UV protection, dark tint face shield/helmet and a cool vest.

nidan · « **Reply #5 on:** June 06, 2008, 05:03:14 AM »

A coolmax long sleeve white shirt , prevents dehydration and sunburn . Learned the tip from a Sgt rinding buddy that did a few tours in Iraq

http://coolmaxclothing.com/longsleeve.html

Sean M Cary · « **Reply #6 on:** June 06, 2008, 07:08:27 AM »

Quote from: nidan on June 06, 2008, 05:03:14 AM

A coolmax long sleeve white shirt , prevents dehydration and sunburn . Learned the tip from a Sgt rinding buddy that did a few tours in Iraq

http://coolmaxclothing.com/longsleeve.html

Outside my hooch in Fallujah... Don't wanna ride in that!!

Sean

roadrunner · « **Reply #7 on:** June 06, 2008, 09:32:01 AM »

When its really hot and muggy I use the Icon Recon pants http://www.rideicon.com/product_details.jsp?category=1238&id=5794.

Sean M Cary · « **Reply #8 on:** June 06, 2008, 01:55:41 PM »

Anyone recommend a good hot weather glove?

Gotta be full finger...

Sean

lilbear · « **Reply #9 on:** June 06, 2008, 03:29:04 PM »

The Under Armour Heatgear is great at keeping you cool and also offers a large SPF for sun protection. Skin never seems dried out when wearing this stuff and it feels so much cooler than bare arms.

http://www.underarmour.com/shop/search/results/pid1000085-Men-s-HeatGear-Loose-Longsleeve/1000085-001

Sean M Cary · « **Reply #10 on:** June 10, 2008, 09:22:18 AM »

Quote from: Florida Marine on June 06, 2008, 01:55:41 PM

Anyone recommend a good hot weather glove?

Gotta be full finger...

Sean

As an update, I purchased some HD Air Flow gloves at the dealer - they are good to go! My hands actually feel cool/chilly when I am riding and sweat does not pour out the bottom when I stop.

Sean

roadrunner · « **Reply #11 on:** June 10, 2008, 06:27:19 PM »

I like the Olympia Model 720 Comfort Cooler Gloves. Been wearing these for about 5 years, just started my second pair. I thought the XL was to big, but the L is to tight.

SPIDERMAN · « **Reply #12 on:** June 10, 2008, 06:40:52 PM »

Quote from: BayouBiker on June 05, 2008, 04:32:45 PM

I just got one of the H-D 'H2O Hydration' vests last week ($45 msrp).
link to the item on H-D site here:
http://www.harley-davidson.com/mcm/mcm_product.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524448771686&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=2534374302502367&ASSORTMENT%3C%3East_id=2534374302502367&bmUID=1212697482385&bmLocale=en_US

Here in SE Louisiana, our heat index has been over 100 the last couple days w/ambient temp of 92!
The vest works good, although the instructions say it will only last for approx 1yr or 50 uses.
My neck wrap that works on the same principle has lasted about 3 yrs so far...

I wear it over a silk-type t-shirt & under a light Columbia long-sleeve button shirt.
I would recommend it to anybody riding distance in high temps.

BayouBiker
Thank you for the info. With the heart problems I have, this will be a huge help.

I have one of the neckbands. It's got flaxseed in it vice these crystals. Maybe that has something to do with the lasting longer ?

B B

Screamin_Beagle · « **Reply #13 on:** June 10, 2008, 10:54:28 PM »

Leve it to the MoFo........ur I mean the MoCo to bring something that has a short life.......50 rides, well, a buck a ride for an hour of comfort.......Dunno!

JMO

_Beags

Banana man · « **Reply #14 on:** June 14, 2008, 11:43:29 PM »

I just bought the stock mesh jacket. Great venting and comes in orange
and black. Was very comfortable.

And I bought the limited edition tenacity mesh jacket. It comes in silver
and grey. I bought it because my wife liked it and wanted me to get it.
So why would I argue with her?

Oh yea, she tried on the limited edition white and pink lady mesh jacket and it looked
so fine on her that of course we got it to. After all I could not get two
jackets and not get her at least one.

Rode today and we love all three of them!!!

Mark

P. S. If I spend any more time in the Harley shop I really will be broke.

sadunbar · « **Reply #15 on:** June 14, 2008, 11:47:39 PM »

Quote from: Screamin_Beagle on June 10, 2008, 10:54:28 PM

Leve it to the MoFo........ur I mean the MoCo to bring something that has a short life.......50 rides, well, a buck a ride for an hour of comfort.......Dunno!

JMO

_Beags

Well, at 4400 miles when my motor started spewing oil out the rear cylinder, I'm sure I didn't have 50 rides on her...

jwygo · « **Reply #16 on:** June 15, 2008, 02:04:37 AM »

Cortech by Tourmaster make the best gear I've found in all my years of biking.
Summer gloves: Cortech DX: full mesh, some armor and cool look. http://www.newenough.com/gloves/street_short_cuff/cortech_by_tour_master/dx_motorcycle_gloves.html
I also have a pair of the GX but don't wear them as much as the DX.

I've used the Cortech Flex jacket for 3 years (http://www.newenough.com/protective_apparel/convertible_textile_mesh_jackets_and_pants/tour_master/flex_series_2_textile_mesh_motorcycle_jacket.html). 3 weeks ago on a trip to Yellowstone and the Tetons I used it in 30 degree rain and snow and 50 mph gusts with the included waterproof liner and my heated liner. Perfect. The next day I used the jacket every way it was designed for. At 6 am in Rawlins, WY it was 35 degrees and rainy. By the time I got to Cheyenne it was 60 degrees and sunny so I took off the rain liner. By the time I got to Ogallala, NE it was 85 and sunny so I unzipped/removed the panels, turning it into a full mesh jacket for the rest of the day. It also has back, shoulder and elbow armor. Last year I used the mesh option in 105 heat in southern Kansas. I was amazed at how comfortable I was with the sun not beating directly on me but the air still flowing around my under armour tee shirt. For under $200 it's the best deal going. See www.newenough.com

My Shoei X-11 full face has the best venting I've ever felt. Todd at www.helmetharbor.com in Phoenix recommends it as the best venting full face around. You should go to his web site and watch his video reviews of various helmets. Terrific.

Lzyboy · « **Reply #17 on:** June 19, 2008, 03:14:59 PM »

I'm glad these questions were asked and answered. I just moved to El Paso, Tx and holy cow is it hot. I am definitly in the mood for some summer gear. I will have to take a closer look at the HD vest and see what it has to offer.

The only I can suggest right now is a white long sleeve shirt, half helmet and judge the lights. That way you don't have to stop as much. Don't get me wrong TX has a lot of riding opportunities. Well enjoy them later once house hold goods are delivered. Brought the basics to ride.

Sean M Cary · « **Reply #18 on:** June 19, 2008, 03:58:03 PM »

Quote from: lzyboy on June 19, 2008, 03:14:59 PM

I'm glad these questions were asked and answered. I just moved to El Paso, Tx and holy cow is it hot. I am definitly in the mood for some summer gear. I will have to take a closer look at the HD vest and see what it has to offer.

The only I can suggest right now is a white long sleeve shirt, half helmet and judge the lights. That way you don't have to stop as much. Don't get me wrong TX has a lot of riding opportunities. Well enjoy them later once house hold goods are delivered. Brought the basics to ride.

Anyone shut off their bike at long lights? I have heard of folks doing it. I sit and watch the oil temp...and worry.

Sean

J-Carr · « **Reply #19 on:** June 19, 2008, 04:29:08 PM »

Hey Sean,

Not at long lights, but at construction zones when the flagger holds a lane for a few minutes I do. I basically shut it down any time I feel I'm likely to be sitting for more then a couple of minutes, but none of our lights are that long around here.

Ride Safe,
J-Carr

BayouBiker · « **Reply #20 on:** June 19, 2008, 04:45:54 PM »

I have to shut mine down at most long lights, RR crossings & draw bridges (we got alot of 'em)

Yesterday, with ambient heat of 94, got stuck at 2 trains, 1 draw bridge & bad traffic.
Even shutting her down, oil temp stayed about 240...

MJZ · « **Reply #21 on:** June 19, 2008, 10:00:25 PM »

I try never ever to be beside one of my friends with 110's in July or August at a red light. I'm glad you mentioned this as I will tell them to turn theirs off to keep from cooking everything within 30 feet.

SPIDERMAN · « **Reply #22 on:** June 20, 2008, 08:29:41 PM »

104.6 (in the shade) in Beagle's back yard this afternoon. I think we need whatever there is on this thread

B B

murphy · « **Reply #23 on:** June 20, 2008, 08:39:43 PM »

Quote from: Florida Marine on June 19, 2008, 03:58:03 PM

Anyone shut off their bike at long lights? I have heard of folks doing it. I sit and watch the oil temp...and worry.
Sean

I just hit the kill switch, not the ignition.

Lzyboy · « **Reply #24 on:** June 21, 2008, 10:57:48 AM »

good question Florida Marine,
All my years of riding especially stationed in HI, I never had to be concerned about turning off the bike due to heat. Now that I am in TX, guess I better pay more attention to my surroundings.

SPIDERMAN · « **Reply #25 on:** June 21, 2008, 11:21:55 AM »

Quote from: MJZ on June 19, 2008, 10:00:25 PM

I try never ever to be beside one of my friends with 110's in July or August at a red light. I'm glad you mentioned this as I will tell them to turn theirs off to keep from cooking everything within 30 feet.

Mark,
Have you noticed how cool Elvis always is ?

B B

Sean M Cary · « **Reply #26 on:** June 21, 2008, 01:01:47 PM »

Quote from: murphy on June 20, 2008, 08:39:43 PM

I just hit the kill switch, not the ignition.

Uh, yeah... Bout two weeks ago I lost cool points at an intersection after I changed the alarm to arm after 30 seconds. I turned off the ignition to turn the headlight off.

I had turned it off at a REALLY long light here since it was 100+ out and just as the light turned green, "chirp, chirp" - DOH!

Of course my keys were in my pockets and I had gloves on - and I am moving fast to get the bike started so it was harder then it should have been.

Felt like a jackass - made the light and had nobody behind me...but definite loss of CP's.

Oh well.

Sean

mrmagloo · « **Reply #27 on:** June 23, 2008, 12:52:57 PM »

Quote from: nidan on June 06, 2008, 05:03:14 AM

A coolmax long sleeve white shirt , prevents dehydration and sunburn . Learned the tip from a Sgt rinding buddy that did a few tours in Iraq

http://coolmaxclothing.com/longsleeve.html

The link seems to be bad. Can you try to repost it?

TN · « **Reply #28 on:** June 23, 2008, 05:56:24 PM »

went today and got a sampler pk of under armour. a few boxer shorts, several long sleeve loose fit tees. a few short sleeve loose fit tees, and i don't know what i was thinking but i got a few compression fit tees.

20yrs ago it'd been good. oh well.

TN

Sean M Cary · « **Reply #29 on:** June 23, 2008, 06:29:38 PM »

Quote from: TN on June 23, 2008, 05:56:24 PM

went today and got a sampler pk of under armour. a few boxer shorts, several long sleeve loose fit tees. a few short sleeve loose fit tees, and i don't know what i was thinking but i got a few compression fit tees. 20yrs ago it'd been good. oh well.

TN

I have Under Armor T-shirts and skivvies...its all good to 130 in Iraq/Kuwait. I am in pretty decent shape, work out 6 days a week - I don't wear the compression stuff.

Garznhogs · « **Reply #30 on:** June 28, 2008, 02:21:39 PM »

Quote from: mrmagloo on June 23, 2008, 12:52:57 PM

The link seems to be bad. Can you try to repost it?

www.coolclothingusa.com Name change. Good service, good product.

Author Topic: Hot Weather Riding Gear---2008 (Read 12309 times)

Sean M Cary

Sean M Cary

Sean M Cary

Sean M Cary

SPIDERMAN

Sean M Cary

SPIDERMAN

SPIDERMAN

Sean M Cary

Sean M Cary