So I’m looking for a pair of actual riding pants, as opposed to the jeans I wear now (yeah, yeah, I know, they won’t protect me at all, hence this thread).
Now I’m fairly ignorant when it comes to motorcycle pants. I know I can get straight-up leathers, but I’m not sure those go well with my cruiser, but more importantly, I can’t really wear those to work and whatnot without changing before and after each ride.
Are there any other pants that’ll offer protection that can be worn in other circumstance, too? What do you riders wear?
There are kevlar and padded jeans available. Google “motorcycle jeans” to see a number of products.
Personally, I usually just wear regular jeans around town. I also understand there are safer clothing options.
When I’m on the highway (I ride a big touring bike), I have a Joe Rocket Alter Ego armoured textile pant and jacket set. I don’t think the pants would be what you’re looking for in terms of work appropriate apparel.
I’ve also used leather chaps like these. They’re worn over your regular clothing and offer a good degree of protection. They only take two or three minutes to put on and take off. I’ve worn these on a cruiser and on a touring bike. I don’t think they look out of place on either.
It’s been years since I rode but I had a pair of jean cut leather riding pants. Look for touring leathers. You do want something motorcycle specific as the leather will be thicker with extra on the hips and knees.
I’ve been pretty happy with just plain black leather chaps. They’re easy to get on and off at work. They fold flat and fit on a bookshelf out of the way. Mine have a thinsulate lining and they keep me comfortable in temperatures down to about 30 degrees for a 40 minute ride. Okay, maybe not comfortable, but they keep my legs from getting totally numb.
I have a couple of pairs of these: http://www.dragginjeans.com/. I’ve never had the opportunity to put them to the test, thankfully.
I don’t think chaps are such a great idea. Think about it – in any get-off, there’s a good chance you’ll go sliding down the road on your butt. Assless pants aren’t going to do you much good.
I also have an Aerostich Roadcrafter (http://www.aerostich.com/catalog/US/Roadcrafter-p-1-c-249.html) which is worn over street clothes. It’s wonderful. Waterproof, quite protective, and zips on and off in seconds. It’s got a zillion really useful pockets. It’s the perfect riding suit, IMHO.
I have an Aerostich riding suit. They’re not cheap, but you can put them on over street clothes with ease, they protect you in the rain, and they’re a good start for cold-weather protection as well.
The best protection you can get is full racing leathers with pads, like those that racers wear. Question is, will you wear them? They’re hard to fit, somewhat uncomfortable, expensive, and a bit impractical for commuter riding.
The Aerostich suit is definitely a step below that, but IMHO you’ll be motivated to use it.
If you already have a Kevlar motorcycle jacket, you ought to be able to find matching pants.
Personally I don’t think I’d mess with riding suits and special jeans. The equipment that works best is the equipment you’ll actually use. Therefore, I’d get some chaps.
