Its great for the community that we have another serious player in the market, who is bringing us more choices at a range of price points.

BHPian neil.jericho recently shared this with other enthusiasts:

Indian motorcycle riding gearheads would have noticed that Reise Moto has become the importer for brands like Ixon, Spidi and Acerbis, while also being a reseller for popular brands like Bobo, Mad Dog etc. They also have their own riding gear. Over the weekend, I dropped into their recently inaugurated store in Bangalore, with krishnaprasadgg and another avid enthusiast, to check out what inventory they have. The store was a lot larger than what I expected it to be, and as you will see from the pictures, they have a lot of products on display.

As Indian enthusiasts have become more aware of safety ratings and are willing to pay for higher quality riding gear, it is heartening to note that we now have more jackets that are class AAA (Ixon Vortex 3) and class AA (Ixon M-NJORD). I was looking at full gauntlet gloves and quite liked the Ixon GP4 Air. I say this as a full fledged fan of Rev'it gear! These Reise Rhodes gloves were a seriously impressive bit of kit at the Rs. 4,999 price point.

Do keep in mind, that like with most motorcycle stores in the country, it helps to do your homework and know what you are looking for, before you head to this store. That said, its great for the community that we have another serious player in the market, who is bringing us more choices at a range of price points.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

KTM is offering what appears to be a Rynox Cypher GT riding jacket with KTM branding.

KTM customers can now get a free riding jacket on the purchase of a 200 Duke.

KTM is offering what appears to be a Rynox Cypher GT riding jacket with KTM branding. It is made from a heavy-duty textile with dual stitching. It has level 2 protectors for the shoulder, elbow, back and chest.

The KTM 200 Duke is priced at Rs 2.06 lakh (ex-showroom). It is powered by a 199.5cc, single-cylinder, liquid-cooled engine that delivers 25 BHP and 19 Nm. The engine is mated to a 6-speed gearbox.

Meanwhile, KTM is replacing the entry-level 125 Duke with a 160cc model in India. This bike will be based on the 200 Duke and will compete with the Yamaha MT15.

Quite a nice and breezy summer jacket and I'm certainly going to use it, combining with an inner vest with L2 protection for chest and back.

BHPian CrAzY dRiVeR recently shared this with other enthusiasts:

Riding Gear Update: Dainese Herosphere Jacket

Ordered the Herosphere from Dainese India (Moto Madness) on the 2nd and finally got it delivered on the 21st after some drama by DTDC.

Herosphere has a comfortable, relaxed fit as compared to the slim and short fit of the earlier Dainese Speed Tex I had during the Versys days. It has a ton of mesh all around for excellent ventilation, and is light weight thanks to the use of the Dainese Pro Armours on the chest and elbow. Pockets are provided for the back and chest protectors (which I'm not going to opt for).

The shape doesn't feel very youthful (not that I'm getting any younger! Lol) but the colours do!

Couple of improvement areas though - this being their entry level jacket doesn't come with an external slider for the shoulder, the jacket to pants connection is just a loop buckle and not a zip, and there are no adjustments provided for the arm - the only adjustment is the Velcro on the waist.

But then, quite a nice and breezy summer jacket and I'm certainly going to use it, combining with an inner vest with L2 protection for chest and back.

Riding Gear Update: Royal Enfield Tso Kar WP Pants

Ordered on the 20th and got it delivered on the 22nd (and posted a classified ad on the 23rd - will get to that!).

Once unboxed, it felt good to wear in the room and I removed the tag with overconfidence. But with the full gear on the bike - I realized the fit doesn't suit me at all.

The size I ordered is 36 (which is my jeans size), but somehow for RE - that means a size 38 almost. However, that should have been ok if the velcro adjustments provided were of any use! But the scope for adjustment is much smaller than what the other brands provide and doesn't help in any way for me. Moreover, the relaxed fit feels 1.5x the size near the knee area compared to the waist, and it doesn't come up at the back unless you use the zipper and tie it to the jacket.

I should have tried it in the showroom by sitting on a bike, was too lazy and paid for that! Waiting for the classifieds ad to come live before putting this on the Riding gear thread as well.

Meanwhile, if anyone is interested in a size 36 waterproof pant, do check the sizing calculator properly on their website and let me know.

Short Breakfast Ride: Kolar

Went for a short breakfast ride to try the new gear, the choice of breakfast being Mulbagal Dosa at Aaradhya Grand, Kolar. Two friends joined for this ride - BHPian ebmrajesh on his Kawasaki Ninja 1000 and our friend Maha on his Kawasaki Versys 650.

Oh ain't that Versys so familiar!

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

The outer material should be made of good quality abrasion resistant material and it should also include some basic sliders at various points.

BHPian neochanger recently shared this with other enthusiasts:

Hello guys, I hope you are doing well.

I am planning to get myself a budget riding jacket and riding pants. This is going to be my only jacket and pants pair for a long time and therefore I am willing to do as much research as possible before spending money. Detailed information and technical knowhow about specific jackets will also decide my budget as I would be willing to spend a bit extra in first go than buying low and upgrading sooner. I have done some research on my own and got inputs from various sources about what should constitute a good riding jacket.

Basically, here's what I have compiled so far:

Considering my use case and weather conditions of Northern plains, the first thing is that the riding jacket should be made of mesh in good amount, and be full of ventilation. For occasional harsh winter or rainy season, separate liners should be used.

Next, your riding jacket should be light enough without compromising on safety meaning that it should have Level-2 protectors everywhere yet light enough to be convenient. For instance, Viaterra claims that its Spencer jacket is lightest in the segment. I don't know about the weight of other riding jackets in this budget (10-15k) or even at some higher price point. I think it’s a good idea if Youtube reviewers use a hanging weigh scale to compare lightness of different jackets for good comparison.

Next, the outer material should be made of good quality abrasion resistant material and it should also include some basic sliders at various points. Now, many of the jackets use this thing called Cordura, with grading like 600D or 1000D etc. Again, not every jacket out there tells you in detail about what kind of material is used and of which grade to really make a good comparison. Many brands simply say abrasion resistant while some flaunt 700D as regular and 1000D on possible contact points such as elbows and shoulders. I don’t know if bigger brands make their own proprietary abrasion resistant textile and if they are better or worse than Cordura 1000D. Only experts of this domain can have a good guess on it. Checking about sliders is easier part, if the jacket has it, good enough.

Next is the protector: before discussing their safety ratings, a small thing about their placement and precise fit. Rynox claims they have some feature which allows adjustments according to the need. Viaterra offers custom fit kind of thing. Others simply boast their precision in making it fit for all and sundry. Good fit and comfort are important. How to know if they are actually good fit or not? Only trying out can tell, that too after wearing it and riding the motorcycle with it for some time. This is not possible usually and inherently not possible if you wish to buy it online. So this becomes a great confusion point.

Now, the protectors: We all know that we should go for CE Level-2 protectors everywhere in our riding gear. But there are other minor details in certification such as if it is temperature-tested or not (T+/T-). Also, there are many brands such as D3O, Knox, Sas-tech, Cerros-G and so on. Now which of these is better (=lightweight and long lasting along with ticking all the certification boxes) than the others. For instance, I shortlisted Rynox Stealth Air Pro jacket which seems nice otherwise but uses Cerros-G brand for protectors which is not a widely used brand (I think it’s in-house to Rynox). Will they be light and flexible than, say, D3O or Sas-tech? I don’t know. Is there a well made comparison of these brands? I don’t know. If there is, please let me know. Also, there is budget at play here so we need a comparison test between similarly priced (or with reasonable price difference) protectors.

Next and perhaps the biggest point of confusion: In the price range of 10-15k or even upto 20k there are plenty of brands and jackets to choose from, for example, Rynox, Viaterra, Solace, DSG, Tarmac and so on. The problem multiplies if you are also willing to check out international brands, for instance, I saw some good looking Alpinestars and Dainese touring jackets on sale on FC-Moto under 13k meaning that you can get it around 20-25k including shipping and customs. Is it wise to go for these brands by spending some extra in the first go? Or is it just FOMO playing out? Indians brands have done quite well on quality front and left many users extremely satisfied. On the other hand, there are people who would tell you that desi brands can’t match the quality and craftsmanship of a reputed international counterpart. My own belief is that Indian brands are good enough for me and I should stay away from all this importing hassle. But how to know if I am right.

Next, I understand that apart from CE ratings of protectors there is also a CE rating for overall jacket or pant which goes from AAA (best) to A(better) and so on. Please correct me if I am wrong here but many of jackets in the price bracket of 10-15k are rated A and not AAA. Also, not all brands tell you in detail about this rating on their website neither the usual Youtube reviewers even make any small mention of it. So, to do a good comparison test, you are left clueless on this aspect as well.

Keeping in mind all the above confusion and comparison aspects, here are some of my shortlisted jacket and pants. (I am planning to buy jacket and pants of same brand and type to make it a suit so that the combo makes a good fit and remains aesthetically pleasing)

• Rynox stealth air pro jacket and pants
• Viaterra Spencer jacket and pants
• Solace Sabre Pro V5 with CoolPro V3 mesh pants

Now, I am really confused which one I should go for.

There are other brands too like DSG, Tarmac, LS2 etc. Which one specific I must check out before making any decision, please tell me. Should I muster the courage and keep on exploring import options too from sites like FC Moto?

One may say why at all I am bothered so much about all these details and any jacket with Level-2 protectors that I think can do the job will do the job. If that is the case, please suggest me so.

The reason I wrote this long post about my pretty low budget needs is that many aspiring but curious riders, who are willing to spend money on good gears but are afraid that they may end up buying something they will soon regret, are actually way more confused on all this and while getting some answers are easy it is definitely not easy to make a decent comparison between various jackets made by different manufacturers, Indian and foreign. This riding gear thread is now running into more than 300 pages with posts on gears I don’t even know about and scorching the thread for all your silly confusions can be even more confusing at times. So this post may serve as somewhat starting point for beginners like me who are searching for answers.

I must say that this post on CE ratings is quite helpful to get started and is a must read but after reading this, your confusion about comparing gears might get more interesting.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

The products that I looked at online do not seem solid and sturdy enough to withstand the weight of a full-riding suit and textile jacket and pants put together.

BHPian skviknaraj recently shared this with other enthusiasts:

Hello all,

As time goes on, the number of motorcycle riding gear has started piling up in my house and I am looking for ways to store them properly.

If you can share how you are storing the gear with pictures and links to products, it would be great. Hopefully, this thread can be used as a one-stop reference/inspiration for riders to store their gear properly.

I do believe a gentleman had shared a custom-fabricated rack and I haven't been able to locate that post.

I did try going through Google/ Amazon, but the products shown do not seem solid and sturdy enough to withstand the weight of a full-riding suit and textile jacket and pants put together.

So please do share what is working for you.

Here's what BHPian Cyborg replied:

I think the following is what you are looking for. Hope it helps.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

Your racing gear also works great in actual cars on track days.

BHPian AJ56 recently shared this with other enthusiasts:

I figured we have a very active riding gear thread for bikes, we should have a racing gear thread for cars/karts too.

I imagine most of us at least have a karting helmet, with serious guys having the full suit/gloves/shoes, specially given the state of rental helmets and gear available at most karting tracks (read not good).

I like karting and don’t like wearing worn out bike helmets with a shower cap (what they give you at every kart track in Delhi-NCR). So I decided to get my own stuff and I couldn’t be happier with my Bell karting helmet and gear.

Your racing gear also works great in actual cars on track days.

Please post your helmet and race gear pictures below!

What I use-

(Bell KC7 Alonso scheme), everything else is Sparco except neck brace.

Read BHPian comments for more insights and information.

I have been using them in the office for the past couple of days and they really can do long days with not much discomfort.

BHPian CrAzY dRiVeR recently shared this with other enthusiasts:

Riding Gear Update: Clan Stealth Shoes

No major rides happening recently as I'm still waiting for the new jacket to arrive. Back in early November, I rode down the Yamaha Aerox 155 from Bangalore to Trivandrum and took a flight back. Dumped the Rynox jacket that I had at Trivandrum.

Hence I'm sitting without a jacket now.

Meanwhile

Picked up these Clan Stealth Shoes for office commutes. I was a bit weary of this brand earlier but recently they seem to have achieved CE L1 certification. So picked these up for regular use in the office.

Good part is that it doesn't look much like a riding shoe if the ankle portion is covered under jeans. Have been using it in the office for the past couple of days and it really can do long days with not much discomfort.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

The Adventurer XT collection is designed for sub-zero temperatures.

Royal Enfield has launched a new range of riding gear designed for extreme conditions. The new Adventurer XT collection is said to be tailored for extreme adventure riders.

The Adventurer XT collection is designed for sub-zero temperatures and offers protection in torrential rain and on rugged terrains. It is CE class AA certified.

The Adventurer XT collection uses SuperFabric materials that are known for superior abrasion, stain and cut resistance. It has a laminated waterproof layer, a detachable winter liner certified for -15°C temperatures, ventilation systems, and an atop reel knob lacing system.

The Adventurer XT collection is available in three colourways – Black, Olive, and Teal. The riding jacket is priced at Rs 24,950 and the pants cost Rs 15,950.

Key Features of the Adventurer XT Collection:

• Protection: Equipped with Royal Enfield Ergo Pro Tech Level 2 protectors for shoulders, elbows, and back, providing superior high-impact resistance and Royal Enfield Ergo Pro Tech Level 1 armor for chest, offering additional protection.
• Materials: Durable softshell fabric for flexibility and comfort combined with SuperFabric at key impact zones for maximum durability.
• Weather Adaptability: Detachable down winter liner and 100% laminated waterproof shell with rain protection of up to 10,000 mm, keeping riders dry and comfortable in the harshest conditions.
• Comfort: Adjustable fit, stretch panels, and ventilation for optimal performance in cold climates.
• Utility: Multiple waterproof pockets, reflective detailing for enhanced visibility, and a secure lacing system for superior fit and adjustability.

As the fastening is through zipper and velcro, it is bit loose at the top. That gap helped me in ankle movement.

BHPian CrusingSoul recently shared this with other enthusiasts:

Finally the temptation was irresistible and purchased RE E-39 riding boots . Complete black one for my size was not available online. I called my bike dealer
and luckily they had the stock. I asked them to block it till afternoon and during lunch break I went to try it (showroom is just 2 km from my office).

Initially sales person gave me short length shoes and I almost took it home but when I cross checked and got the midrise. Apart from ankle length, there is hardly any difference. Showroom gave me same discount as online (INR 6990), but didn't give any warranty quoting there are no warranty on discounted items .

Even the regular warranty is 6 months, so I took the risk and purchased it.

Initial impressions:

• Quality and finishing is good.
• As the fastening is through zipper and velcro, it is bit loose at the top. But while I was riding bike for first time wearing it, that gap helped me in ankle movement. Also this might help in tucking my riding pant inside.
• While trying the shoes I noticed that the shoes is 2023 manufactured. But still went for it. Hope I wont repent my decision.

I even tried RE Wanderer boots , but it was not not available in my size. So did not consider it.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.

I have ridden them on hot days still never felt sweaty or had a thought about them feeling uncomfortable so safe to take their word on that.

BHPian Nino recently shared this with other enthusiasts:

In an effort to upgrade the riding gears before jumping to the big bike experience, I Recently acquired the "RST Tractech Evo 3" Boots. It costed £133.32 and my sister was kind enough to pick it up from the "Sports Bike Shop" store in Leeds, UK

I chose the waterproof version and they are extremely comfortable. The flex is very minimal allowing just enough movement for gear shifts and braking, while otherwise feeling very rigid without sacrificing comfort.

That said, I have ridden roughly 400kms to break them in. Gear shifting and getting the feet down on bumper-to-bumper traffic felt unnerving in the beginning but once the expansion panels softened up is when I started to feel these to be very comfortable and confidence inspiring. While being waterproof RST claims they have a breathable membrane, I have ridden them on hot days still never felt sweaty or had a thought about them feeling uncomfortable so safe to take their word on that.

I took a gamble on the size as I had no way to try it out and was sceptical to decide solely based on the online size chart, most reviews suggested to take a size up and some preferred to stick to the usual size and I chose the latter. Thankfully the standard size fit me perfectly.

I haven't experienced brands like the Alpinestars or Dainese, but these RST boots are so good that I have no intention of wanting to even try them anytime soon. The brand is quite popular abroad but its relatively unheard of in India.

The material, the stitching and the plastics feels premium and well built. These tick all the boxes by offering toe cup, TPU for shin and heel, Nylon boot shank, a replaceable toe-slider, a full size sturdy hinge, breathable and waterproof construction all of which are unheard at this price point and even above. so proving to be a better buy in my opinion.

If you may plan to purchase them from India they should cost around 15,000INR (duties excluded if purchased online). There is also a shorter version for lesser price if you may prefer. Highly recommend adding this to your consideration list.

Check out BHPian comments for more insights and information.