After a new jacket
 

So at the moment I've got a sheltex two piece courtesy of Mssrs Hein and Gericke for going to work in. I don't mind commuting in that but I'm looking for something with a bit more protection for when I'm out on days off.

I know nothing about gear though so I'm thinking leather and I like Alpinestars but only because their logo is nice which I suspect you pay for. What should I be looking for in features? (Waterproofing aside, I'm not that bothered)

My budget is somewhere in the 250-350 region but I'll pay more if it'll last me a few years or really offers something significantly better.

Thanks!

Re: After a new jacket
 

What protection are you after that your H&G doesn't offer?

As for leather jackets, which won't offer the same water resistance, you'll find jackets meant for two-pieces are shorter. So if you JUST want the jacket, and you're not planning on zipping up to your trousers, make sure it's long enough to cover your lower back when lent over.

Separately sold back protectors are often recommended rather than the supplied one in jackets. You can get chest protectors as well. You'll want decent elbow/forearm and shoulder protection.

Check out the threads in the riding gear forum.

Re: After a new jacket
 

This Bristish company aren't well known, but got a good write up in Ride magazine

http://www.arc-on.co.uk/all-products...cordura-2.html

Also have a look at Ride magazines top rated kit in this months issue

Re: After a new jacket
 

If you're a 40" chest, 32" waist, don't mind second hand and have a blue SV (what are the chances?!?), you can have my old leathers for £90. :D

Alpinestars jacket
Suzuki trousers

Re: After a new jacket
 

Hi Sabarious, fortunately for you living in leicester, you have 2 good stores close to hand, where you would have the opportunity to try on to see what "fits & suits" your preferences.

www.mcaleicester.co.uk sometimes some good sale prices.

www.helmetsuperstore.co.uk just off the M69 A5 junction, holding the full range of
Held clothing + others and an exceptional range of
helmets (very helpfull)

Hope this helps, I myself wear leather made to measure and Rev'it waterproof suit

JOHN

Re: After a new jacket
 

Thanks for the advice all, in particular the links to the local places.

Fallout I'd love to say yes but you're just a couple of inches out on both, but I don't mind second hand and I do have a blue SV. How's the fit? If its loose on you I may be ok, I'm a 34" waist and 42" jacket in suits.

Re: After a new jacket
 

They'd probably be a bit too snug on you mate. I'd love to say they're a generous fit, but they're both reasonably snug on me, and I am 38-40" jacket and 32" waist exactly. Unless you like holding your breath while riding, it might be wise to give them a miss. ;)

Re: After a new jacket
 

Shame, so close lol

Re: After a new jacket
 

Diet maybe? Surgical rib removal? Save yourself even more money! :D

Re: After a new jacket
 

HG usually do some good deals on leathers at this time of year. Always look on the .de site (Germany) as sometimes it works out cheaper to get them delivered from there (£199 vs 199EUR for example).

I got a set of HG 2-piece PSX track leathers for £150 about 2 years ago in one of the sales. Still going strong after daily use throughout 2 summers, some springs, autumns, the odd track day and the odd off! lol

As has been said, leathers are not meant for rainy days and for those, I use HG Goretex 2-piece which I picked up (from Germany) for £250 complete (in a sale).

Pays to shop around and drive a bargain where poss. HG also have (or at least had) an Ebay store where you can pick up some bargain items that just need a zip or popper replacing.