TexasCHLforum.com

gregthehand wrote:Well I researched lot this afternoon and now I'm leaning towards a Joe Rocket jacket that is Honda red and white and a white Bell helmet. The helmet I bought the other day I just don't think I'll wind up using.

With the helmet - comfort is everything. Do not buy a helmet without trying it on. Ever. If you think a good belt and holster are important for CHL comfort - well, it ain't got nothing on a good helmet. I ended up with a Nolan. It fit my head and could open up (mimic an open face helmet for summer stop and go traffic or put the shield down for more protection). But get one that fits.

Joe Rocket is a good name, but I never ended up with one so I can't really comment on them.

Leather is still best for abrasion resistance. With that said, I went with a First Gear nylon/kevlar jacket that was fairly comfortable even in the summer (as long as I was moving - nothing was comfortable if I was sitting still). It had some padding in appropriate places and a removable very warm liner for when it got cooler. Almost no "warmth" without that liner though.

Check out the Motorcycle Safety Foundation for a good intro class and several other benefits as well.