Riding Gear?

[Bob W]

The Motorcycle Safety Foundation class should be a requirement for all motorcycle riders.

I'd go as far as saying that anyone who has the opportunity to take the class should. It is required in many other countries, riding on US military bases, and even some states in the US (Florida?).

I ride AGATT (All The Gear All The Time) which in summer in Arizona means ambient air temperatures over a 100 degrees with asphalt running 140-150 degrees (too hot for normal shoes or you will burn your feet). I'd rather sweat in my safety gear than chance road rash.

"If it's too hot for gear, it's too hot to ride."
Still, I'm a little flexible as what "gear" means. Riding around the neighborhood, in my mind, is not the same thing as hitting the highway. I don't dress in head-to-heel leather when I ride the bicycle either.

 

[Sid Post]

Still, I'm a little flexible as what "gear" means. Riding around the neighborhood, in my mind, is not the same thing as hitting the highway. I don't dress in head-to-heel leather when I ride the bicycle either.

Most accidents happen close to home so, whether I'm riding for hours or minutes it's AGATT.

After all, how long does it really take to put your gear on?

 

[Noctis3880]

I'd go as far as saying that anyone who has the opportunity to take the class should. It is required in many other countries, riding on US military bases, and even some states in the US (Florida?).

Don't they drop your insurance rates a little for taking it? That's really all the motivation I need to do it. That, and they'll waive the road test for my license.

"If it's too hot for gear, it's too hot to ride."
Still, I'm a little flexible as what "gear" means. Riding around the neighborhood, in my mind, is not the same thing as hitting the highway. I don't dress in head-to-heel leather when I ride the bicycle either.

Depends on the speed right? I'd think slamming into a car at 30 mph would still clear you of your scooter, and would hurt badly no matter what part of your body you land on. For bicycle, I typically wear a helmet and leather gloves. The gloves because if someone tackles me off my bike again, I want my hands to be injury-free so I can greet the punk with a healthy fist:thumbup:.

I guess all the gear might also come in handy during a zombie apocalypse, or if someone decides that beating the owner of the scooter is easier than beating the locks on the scooter.

 

[Bob W]

Don't they drop your insurance rates a little for taking it? That's really all the motivation I need to do it. That, and they'll waive the road test for my license.

The insurance savings is minimal, and should not be your primary motivation for taking the class. When I investigated years ago the insurance savings amounted to a 10% discount on the Comprehensive portion of the policy.
I carried full coverage, including comprehensive, for about a year and half, only until the bike was paid off. The savings would have probably been two or three dollars.

Depends on the speed right? I'd think slamming into a car at 30 mph would still clear you of your scooter, and would hurt badly no matter what part of your body you land on.

Same as slamming into a car at 30mph on your bicycle.

 

[MVF]

Can't resist chiming in here. I've been riding for 40 years now and been down a couple of times. I've had everything from a 125 to a 1300 FJR (really GREAT bike)- never had a scooter because I consider them dangerous! You've got the right idea wanting to have good gear, but I haven't seen you say anything about comfort- if it's not comfortable and convenient, you won't use it. Are you really going to want to spend the whole day, every day walking around campus and sitting in class wearing protective riding pants? And in your climate they're probably going to start to stink pretty quick, too. I'd suggest a couple pair of Draggin Jeans or similar.

Something I'm surprised no one else has mentioned- maneuverability is one of your biggest safety factors and acceleration is a big part of that, with the load out you mentioned you're not going to have any on a cheap 125. I would suggest getting a 250 motorcycle, even if you have to buy used- you get bigger wheels and tires (better traction turning, braking, and overcoming road irregularities), more power (for safety and pleasure), and better visibility. If you're really set on a scooter, get the most power you can- as concerned as you are about safety, overloading a small scooter and then expecting it to go up a hill is not being safety conscious! Besides the power deficit, you're also overloading the chassis, suspension, tires, and brakes! Having done this, I can tell you, it does not make for fun or peace of mind, and can be pretty scary and uncomfortable.

Lastly, as was mentioned, the best safety gear is that thing between your ears! Nothing protects you enough to want to go down. I heartily second Mr. Hough's Proficient Motorcycling as being the best safety investment you can make (along with classes). Good luck and have fun!

 

[Sid Post]

True, but I'd assume even a U-Haul might have some issues if you're in the wrong spot.

U-haul's are bad because the people that drive them don't have experience with that type of vehicle and they generally don't pack them correctly. Thankfully, they generally are gutless so you don't get near as much wind and suction around them.

Just stay clear of U-hauls and everyone else, even if you are not in the blind spot most drivers can't use their mirrors to save their life.

True, true. Though I'd say the added bonus is that you won't lose the helmet:thumbup:. I also typically don't ride at night. Little more worried about not being able to see the road than others not seeing me, as funny as that might be. My one incident with night driving in heavy rain kind of shies me away from it, as I could not for the life of me see the lanes on the road(could also be my headlights were weak).

If your headlight isn't strong enough to illuminate the road properly, you either need to adjust it properly or replace it. Sooner or later, you are going to get caught out after dark and you are one pot hole, box, piece of road debris away from a spill. Headlights are cheap, insurance claims and medical co-pays aren't.

 

[Noctis3880]

Can't resist chiming in here. I've been riding for 40 years now and been down a couple of times. I've had everything from a 125 to a 1300 FJR (really GREAT bike)- never had a scooter because I consider them dangerous! You've got the right idea wanting to have good gear, but I haven't seen you say anything about comfort- if it's not comfortable and convenient, you won't use it. Are you really going to want to spend the whole day, every day walking around campus and sitting in class wearing protective riding pants? And in your climate they're probably going to start to stink pretty quick, too. I'd suggest a couple pair of Draggin Jeans or similar.

It's Kevlar Mesh(armor pads are perforated), so without the liners, it would be more ventilated than the Fieldsheer with vents(though honestly, that Fieldsheer jacket looks more stylish, I wouldn't be embarrassed at all to be sitting in class with the thing). Same situation with the pants, I could either wear pants without liner, or perhaps wear just the liners underneath(not sure how comfortable that material is against bare skin).

Though their product feature seems to bring it up:

• Hydrophilic Nylon Mesh Lining on the inside. The Hydrophilic Lining wicks away sweat and makes the liner more comfortable, even when worn directly against the skin.

I suppose it might stink if I wear it 4 days in a row, but I hardly ever notice my own stink when wearing the same work shirt 5 days out of the week while lifting 40 lbs boxes all throughout the shift. I'm sure my deodorant would be tested, but I'm not too sure I care.

Something I'm surprised no one else has mentioned- maneuverability is one of your biggest safety factors and acceleration is a big part of that, with the load out you mentioned you're not going to have any on a cheap 125. I would suggest getting a 250 motorcycle, even if you have to buy used- you get bigger wheels and tires (better traction turning, braking, and overcoming road irregularities), more power (for safety and pleasure), and better visibility. If you're really set on a scooter, get the most power you can- as concerned as you are about safety, overloading a small scooter and then expecting it to go up a hill is not being safety conscious! Besides the power deficit, you're also overloading the chassis, suspension, tires, and brakes! Having done this, I can tell you, it does not make for fun or peace of mind, and can be pretty scary and uncomfortable.

I sincerely hope $1,900 is not "cheap". It's Taiwanese and not Chinese. Kymco was recommended to me for being built like a brick s***house. I'd personally want to sink in a little more for a Honda Rebel, but I don't believe a cargo case is available for that.

I was considering sinking in a little more for a Honda PCX150, though it may be besides the point since that's also heavier, and I don't know if you get more horsepower out of it(no available info on their site specs) for the slightly higher 153cc. Lastly, if I want to sell it later down the road, it might be more difficult as locals tend to ride scooters for convenience, and would probably want a Kawasaki for the same price as that thing.

Also, while I like the sporty look of those modern motorcycles, I figure the top heavy design might be an issue for me in terms of control and stability. I also like the fuel efficiency of that Rebel.

Though for a first 2-wheeler, I have to seriously wonder if the Rebel would be the way to go? Not sure about the chances of getting into an accident for the first time, but I just thought a $1,900 scooter might be a good way to pick up on good driving skills(which may not apply to the different chassis and overall design of the Rebel) and habits, before bumping up to something more substantial. On the other hand, if external cargo is easily available for it at the dealer(just found something from JCWhitney), it has substantial power and safety that I wouldn't feel the urge to upgrade further(to the Honda Forza I originally wanted).

First motorbike, likely to crash or no?

Honestly though, this is for a 5 mile commute. I kind of like the fact that the Kymco can be parked right up to a bike rack(typically) with no legal issues. The Rebel is a 331 lbs cruiser that still needs to be locked to something solid to be secure, but I don't recall the last time I've seen a motorcycle locked in such a manner, and if it would technically be legal to do so.

Lastly, I'm sure my mom will raise a total b**chstorm if I drop the bomb that I'm planning to spend twice as much as I lead her on to believe. After all, total cost(of gear too) would run up to about $6,000. Which is the same price as the Honda Forza I originally wanted. I could certainly afford to pay it all in full(and prefer to do so). She just wants me to put more into furniture and other items for our new place, whereas I'm more concerned about my devolving situation at work, and how I need to save a bit more on time in order to go to work for 32+ hours and keep up my 4.0 GPA with school.

Lastly, as was mentioned, the best safety gear is that thing between your ears! Nothing protects you enough to want to go down. I heartily second Mr. Hough's Proficient Motorcycling as being the best safety investment you can make (along with classes). Good luck and have fun!

Thanks!

 

[Sid Post]

I was considering sinking in a little more for a Honda PCX150, though it may be besides the point since that's also heavier, and I don't know if you get more horsepower out of it(no available info on their site specs) for the slightly higher 153cc. Lastly, if I want to sell it later down the road, it might be more difficult as locals tend to ride scooters for convenience, and would probably want a Kawasaki for the same price as that thing.

A small "learner" motorcycle is pretty easy to sell while retaining a good portion of its original sales price if you take care of it.

Also, while I like the sporty look of those modern motorcycles, I figure the top heavy design might be an issue for me in terms of control and stability. I also like the fuel efficiency of that Rebel.

Most of them are not top heavy if you stay out the "cruiser" class of motorcycles. A small 250~300cc standard or sporty motorcycle will have a low center of gravity and provide good utility and a lot of fun riding.

Though for a first 2-wheeler, I have to seriously wonder if the Rebel would be the way to go? Not sure about the chances of getting into an accident for the first time, but I just thought a $1,900 scooter might be a good way to pick up on good driving skills(which may not apply to the different chassis and overall design of the Rebel) and habits, before bumping up to something more substantial. On the other hand, if external cargo is easily available for it at the dealer(just found something from JCWhitney), it has substantial power and safety that I wouldn't feel the urge to upgrade further(to the Honda Forza I originally wanted).

Don't over think the cargo boxes. That's a great way to turn a nimble ride into a heavy slow "pig" that is hard to handle. My dual-sport Kawasaki has no cases yet I can put a weeks worth of groceries in a medium size backpack. Remember, you aren't try to move your house or live out of this scooter/motorcycle. Sure a nice cubby hole for some gloves is nice but, cases are really over rated for most commuters.

First motorbike, likely to crash or no?

Not likely if you take the MSF beginner course and ride responsibly. Learn your lessons in the classroom not on the streets.

 

[Noctis3880]

A small "learner" motorcycle is pretty easy to sell while retaining a good portion of its original sales price if you take care of it.

True. Though given the specs of the Rebel, I might not sell it until it breaks down.

Most of them are not top heavy if you stay out the "cruiser" class of motorcycles. A small 250~300cc standard or sporty motorcycle will have a low center of gravity and provide good utility and a lot of fun riding.

Hmm? The Rebel is low-rider and is technically a cruiser class, which I figure might be better anyway for good lengths of riding and gas mileage. That's what I assume when I hear the word "cruiser" anyway. Sport/dirt sounds more offroad.

Don't over think the cargo boxes. That's a great way to turn a nimble ride into a heavy slow "pig" that is hard to handle. My dual-sport Kawasaki has no cases yet I can put a weeks worth of groceries in a medium size backpack. Remember, you aren't try to move your house or live out of this scooter/motorcycle. Sure a nice cubby hole for some gloves is nice but, cases are really over rated for most commuters.

Meh. Maybe I'm just salty at the prospect of having to let my Saddleback Leather Briefcase collect dust because there's no good way to carry it on the bike. It could be distracting as hell if I try to carry it on the strap and it flops around when I make a turn. It could be carried like a backpack, but I generally find it to be a lot more stiff without all the cushioning and restricts arm movement to a certain degree. Plus I'm kind of wondering if I'm not wasting a high visibility jacket if I have a backpack covering up most of my backside..

But I really have to wonder how much effect a cargo box + 15-20 lbs of baggage would have if you consider that the large choppers weigh something to the tune of 800+ lbs. I typically carry the same stuff(briefcase and locks) on my Cannondale without too much trouble(aside from going uphill, but I generally have the same issue without the baggage).

Not likely if you take the MSF beginner course and ride responsibly. Learn your lessons in the classroom not on the streets.

True, but you can't stay off the streets forever.

It was suggested that the MSF skills practice course is something that should be retaken every couple of years or so. And I suppose it would help to make sure I don't get cocky after riding for a few years.

 

[Sid Post]

Hmm? The Rebel is low-rider and is technically a cruiser class, which I figure might be better anyway for good lengths of riding and gas mileage. That's what I assume when I hear the word "cruiser" anyway. Sport/dirt sounds more offroad.

Sport is something I like a Honda CBR or Kawasaki Ninja. The entry level 250~300cc models are pretty good for new riders to learn on.

Meh. Maybe I'm just salty at the prospect of having to let my Saddleback Leather Briefcase collect dust because there's no good way to carry it on the bike. It could be distracting as hell if I try to carry it on the strap and it flops around when I make a turn. It could be carried like a backpack, but I generally find it to be a lot more stiff without all the cushioning and restricts arm movement to a certain degree. Plus I'm kind of wondering if I'm not wasting a high visibility jacket if I have a backpack covering up most of my backside..

I see a lot of guys wearing briefcases as a backpacks or "sling-backs". At the speeds you are running, it really shouldn't be flopping around. In my case, the Kawsaki KLX-250S has a small cargo rack that I can tie something to.

But I really have to wonder how much effect a cargo box + 15-20 lbs of baggage would have if you consider that the large choppers weigh something to the tune of 800+ lbs. I typically carry the same stuff(briefcase and locks) on my Cannondale without too much trouble(aside from going uphill, but I generally have the same issue without the baggage).

20 pounds carried high on a ~300~400 pound motorcycle is a lot more noticeable than it is on a tricked out Harley. For me, I can tell a significant difference in handling when I buy a weeks worth of groceries due to the ~20 pounds of extra stuff in my backpack. Also, you don't have nearly as much load carrying capacity on a scooter or small displacement motorcycle compared to a big cruiser.

True, but you can't stay off the streets forever.

Learning on a soft grassy field is a lot less painful then doing the same on hot hard asphalt.

It was suggested that the MSF skills practice course is something that should be retaken every couple of years or so. And I suppose it would help to make sure I don't get cocky after riding for a few years.

Yes, if you put your motorcycle up for a long period of time it is certainly a good idea to retake the beginner course. A continuing rider should take the advanced skills course.

 

[Noctis3880]

I suppose it wouldn't be TOO hard to ride with a briefcase, though I still have to wonder where the locks will go(briefcase is typically full up with 2 texts, various papers and folders, and my Macbook, no room for 2-3 locks). It DOES seem like it might be a bit of a headache to buy the parts separately, then find someone to install them(no prior experience with this).