Bike gear - good and bad

Jackets

I started off with a leather jacket, as that was what I was used to long ago. Styles seemed to have changed somewhat over the years, as has my shape! Anyway I ended up with a Bikers Paradise Jacket. Seems well made, fits and was a reasonable price. However I’ve found a few issues.

• Its not as warm as I expected.
• I feel like a trussed up chicken in it. Probably just needs a lot more wear to really break it in, but there are some spots that rub esp around the neck.
• Its pretty heavy to wear

After a lot of looking around for a textile jacket in my size I finally tried on a Heine Gericke Master jacket. Oh dear, excellent build, great fit even on me. Not too bulky. Oh and they offered me a great price so although it was still expensive it seems to have been a good buy. It has certainly made going out for a ride a lot less of a fuss to get ready. Not tested its waterproofness yet, but it is warm and very comfortable.

Waterproofs

I have some, but until I ride in the rain I can’t comment - long may it continue!

Boots

Brought a pair of Alt Berg Clubman Roadster Microlites. Took ages to be delivered but worth while as I couldn’t find any other boots that fit my short but wide feet. ( They come in various widths ). Very well made and extremely comfortable to walk around in. Can’t say they are the height of fashion, but who cares? Not tested the waterproofness yet as still breaking them in. Only minor gripe is that they are quite chunky so gear changing doesn’t have that precise feel you get with lighter boots ( or dare I say trainers )

They’ve had a little more use now and they just seem to get more and more comfortable. Gear changing isn’t a problem at all as they don’t seem so bulky once riding. Can’t say the looks have improved but you can hide them under your trousers so people don’t notice.

Tools

I brought a set of Cruz Tools in a roll. Very good and comprehensive set but unfortunately too big to fit in the Skorpions tool box.  So only useful when the panniers are fitted

I also have the Cruz tyre pressure gauge. A gauge on a hose - perfect.

http://www.motorcycleworldl-spa.co.uk/index.php?act=viewProd&productId=576

Optimate 3 battery charger.  Works a treat, and will be even better once I fit the socket to the bike so I don’t even have to remove the seat to charge. I know, I’m sooooo lazy.

A proper pair of crimpers - expensive but essential if you are doing any rewiring. Mine came from http://www.vehicle-wiring-products.eu/VWP-onlinestore/terminalsnonins/photo/pr4.jpg along with all the wires and connectors.