Another thing about visibility: I looked at a lot of hi-viz and reflective "motorcycle" vests to improve my chances of being seen. Most were overpriced and of limited utility. I ended up buying a surveyors vest made by ML Kishigo. It was priced right, extremely durable and has great pockets.

Here's my recommendation: Vanson.
https://www.vansonleathers.com/

Leather has come a long way in terms of riding comfort and ventilation. Pro-perf makes a huge difference in ventilation.

Vanson factory is local for me--really important to try on stuff for proper fit. Sale rack always sucks me in......

I like alpinestar for boots.

I put a pair to the test once. I'll buy them again.

quote:

Originally posted by petr:
Thanks for all of the suggestions and information. Which Held gloves and why do you like them?

Chikara RR’s. I paid $179 for mine earlier this year. Motorcyclegear.com has them at $139 on blow out right now if one of the remaining sizes are your size. But anything they make with a Kangaroo Palm. The Kangaroo is so much softer and more comfortable than leather. It does make a difference. You can check out Kangaroo suits and how much more expensive they are than leather. I stick to cowhide on suits but Kangaroo on the palms of your gloves give you better feel on the clip ons.

I’d honestly contact Mike at Motorcyclegear.com and go over what you need and he can steer you towards the deals and sales. Black Friday time this year would be a good time to score a lot of stuff. The way motorcycle gear works is they blow out last year’s models. Anything and everything. Helmets, suits, gloves, buits, name it. I wouldn’t say year to year, it’s when the mfr of said gear changes something, usually style or some small improvement. You keep your eyes peeled and you can get top shelf top quality gear for a massive discount. So think 1 gen behind, you buy it new, for a fraction of the cost.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^What he said on where to buy and when. Been a customer of Motorcyclegear (Formerly New Enough.com). Great return policy and service.
As an aside all the advice is good but I like you are invisible at all times the best. Also Most motorcycle accidents involve a left hand turn from the auto. Keep the rubber side down.
Mike

Good quality full face helmet that fits properly.

Quality moto jacket with armor in elbows, shoulders, and back. Leather is best.

Moto gloves with a bit of padding on palms in case you take a slide.

Riding jeans or pants are a great compromise between full leathers and casual pants.

Work boots or moto boots that are made well and tough.

That's my basics for what I wear. Everything else is preference. I don't want to have to suit up like a track day space ninja every ride but I also don't want to be a human crayon if I low side in a corner. I compromise what I'm comfortable with but the above is my bare minimum.