Budget ADV Gear for Men

We've chatted before on Twitter and I listen to your Podcast from time to time. I know you are an expert on motorcycle gear so I thought I'd ask you for some advice.  

A friend of mine was looking for some good ADV pants on a budget and I thought you might be a good person to ask that question. 

Thanks, Rob

Hi Rob!

Thanks for your email. I'm thrilled to answer anyone's questions, regardless of gender :)

As far as ADV pants on a budget, how about these various Klim pants on sale? The nice thing about Klim is the construction, Cordura. For less than $100 you can't go wrong with any of these. Hopefully there's something left in his size:

Klim Revolt - $55.38 ; however only sizes 28-30ish are left, these are vented but you can close them if need be. these are designed to be worn over the boots

Klim Mojave - $93.49; only a few sizes left, these are permanently vented for summer riding only, these are designed to be worn over the boots

Klim Chinook - $93.49; again, only a few sizes left, these also have adjustable vents and are designed to wear inside the boots

Olympia Dakar - $189.99; also Cordura construction, which zip away above the knees to turn into shorts!

New Riding Jeans from REVIT, Fall/Winter 2014

 

(Picture Above: Broadway Ladies)

For those of you on the quest for the ultimate riding jeans, REV'IT has a few styles for you to try this winter, including 2 options for women. 

Broadway Ladies Jeans

Description from REV'IT:

The Broadway ladies jeans are designed by women for women. All of REV’IT!’s women’s gear is designed specifically with the female body in mind, and the regular straight fit of the Broadway is no different. The solid dark blue washing makes the denim stiff and strong, and is further strengthened by the PWR | shield panels and KNOX® protection in adjustable pockets at the knees.   With these jeans you will show everyone you are a fashionable woman on a bike.

• $239.99, Sizes US 24-32, one color
• 11oz Cordura® denim
• Lining: polycotton plain weave
• Protective layer: PWR|shield
• Outer shell: 85% cotton, 15% , lining: 80% polyester, 20%
• Knox® Lite CE protection at knee,
• CE prepared for SaS Tec® CE hip protector (YES! Finally jeans with armor at both points)
• PWR|shield knit protection layer at seat and knees, PWR|yarn
• 3M Scotchlite™ reflection at turn up
• Regular fit
• Adjustable protector pockets
• Zipper fly front closure
• Comfort seat
• Triple needle stitching at side seams and back, extra comfort by mechanical stretch of the outer shell, safety stitching at side seam

I would only recommend the Broadway simply because it offers Hip and Knee armor. I've crashed twice and both times hip and knee armor protected my body. I never ride in pants without hip and knee protectors anymore. I'm anxious to see these in person though. And I would would wear them in the city. (no highway riding)

Madison Ladies

Description from REV'IT:

The Madison jeans are so comfortable you could continue to ride for days with them. The jeans are made of 12.5oz Cordura® denim with COOLMAX® element, which means they are stiff and strong but will still wick moisture away and keep you comfortable. They are constructed with triple needle stitching, safety stitching and feature KNOX® knee protectors for safety. The Madison jeans are designed to capture the freedom and are the ultimate riding trousers. 

• $199.99, Sizes US 24-34, one color
• 12.5oz Cordura® denim with Coolmax® element
• Cotton twill lining
• outer shell: 50% cotton, 30% polyester, 20% polyamide, lining: 100% cotton
• Protective layer: 100% polyester
• Knox® Lite CE protection at knee, PWR|yarn (no hip armor)
• 3M Scotchlite™ reflection at turn up
• Regular fit
• Adjustable protector pocket
• Zipper fly front closure
• Comfort seat
• Triple needle stitching at side seams and back
• Safety stitching at side seam
• Extra comfort by mechanical stretch of outer shell
• Moisture-wicking function by Coolmax® element

It looks like the Madison are a lighter version, with only knee protection and Coolmax for more breathability.

I think it's awesome that they're offering the sizes in US waist! Meaning, you measure your waist and that's your size. Voila!

Spectrum Reflective Safety Vests

Looking for an ultra reflective vest with funky stripes? These new vests by Spectrum are a little better than your average safety vest. 

Using a combination of Corduro and 3M Reflective tape, these vests are more durable, brighter and will last longer than most reflective vests. 

 Pictured Above: Blue Chrome E Reflective, $149 http://www.spectrumultrasports.com/blue-chrome-e-reflective-vest/

I've seen a couple in person and they're pretty strong visually. I'd wear one, but I really really like my jackets and they way they look. (Yes, I do value style over function to a degree) 

I definitely would wear one for night riding. I generally don't ride long distance at night, mostly riding around San Francisco. My jackets all have a little bit of reflectivity and I'm normally carrying my Timbuk2, which has a huge center reflective strip. 

If you are considering a safety vest and want something durable and dare I say it, cool, check these out. They come in a variety of colors and patterns. 

Prices:  $149 - $189. 

Where to Buy: http://www.spectrumultrasports.com/