Riding a Motorcycle in Dublin, Ireland with Alpinestars

For 1 week I was the lucky recipient of a free trip to Ireland! Luckily, I had a day to ride two wheels and here's my brief story.  It all starts with a surprise trip to Ireland on behalf of my husband, but without my husband. Let's just pretend it was a secret mission where I was preoccupied for 6 days and was able to rest on the 7th. So I decided to rent a BMW F650Gs, from Celtic Rider.

celtic rider bmw f650gs motorcycle rental dublin ireland

It was sooooo nice out! Maybe mid 60s and a few clouds but mostly blue sky. I rented a Garmin just in case and ended up heading south into Wicklow Mountains National Park. I had to stop and take this pic.

First road, the only dry part. Killakee Road towards Wicklow Mountains Nat'l Park

I felt like the clouds were moving away from me so I kept going, pretty slow ~45mph. The road was windy but no blind corners and hardly any traffic! This was probably the most cars I'd passed at once. Eventually I found some sheep and a couple of postcard perfect scenes that I had no choice but to photograph. I had to stop, pinch and remind myself exactly where I was. IRELAND!

Eventually I made it to this small junction, where a small parking lot looked good to stop and plan my next route. I met this lovely man named Eddie who was fascinated by my fancy Garmin.

Eventually I made it to the junction of Wicklow Way and Military Rd known as Sally Gap. Stopped and chatted with Eddie (wearing helmet).

View of the parking lot.

And this is where it gets rainy. After leaving this cute parking lot, it started pouring about a half hour later as I wandered further West. I rode for awhile in the rain and eventually I got sick of it so I decided to find a spot to dry off and get comfortable. I found an underground parking garage, had lunch and waited until it dried out. I then tried to get lost and wander some local towns since my Garmin wasn't cooperating.

Sadly I didn't get as far as I wanted to go. I stayed within 30-40 miles of downtown Dublin instead of heading west where all the good roads seem to be. :(

I relied on the 2 short suggestions that I was given and ended up not riding very far. Even with these minor disappointments I still had a GREAT time riding around Dublin. The people were so nice, the scenery was breathtaking and the BMW was awesome! I think they had a stock 2008 F650GS, and it was perfect. It only took me a short while to get used to the other side of the road too.

I definitely plan on making Ireland a riding vacation destination so I can explore the rest of this beautiful country. I know there is lots to see and I can envision renting a bike for a week to see and experience far more than I was able to.

I also managed to take a tour of the Guinness Factory! Freshest Guinness you'll ever drink, tapped straight from the newer factory across the street. 

The Gear

I was also able to wear this fantastic GORE-TEX outfit from Alpinestars, which made my wet ride perfectly comfortable. I stayed warm and dry the entire time.

alpinestars_new_land_gtx_jacket_black_front

alpinestars_new_land_goretex_pants

For a longer ride report and full gear review, please tune into Episode 25 of my podcast at Moterrific.com.

What's new from Alpinestars, 2014

Alpinestars just announced it's 2014 collection, which includes quite a few options for women. I just love it when companies release new products for us. Here are my favorite pieces in the collection. Let's start with a couple lightweights and then I'll tell you more about the gorgeous touring outfit above. Everything is slated for September release. For now, you can preorder but most you won't see delivery until sometime in September.

Cassie and Francie Jackets

For the city moto / scooter crowd, these two are fully armored (including back and chest protection), adding another level of protection which your casualwear just doesn't provide. It's difficult to find gear that doesn't look like motorcycle wear, but has some of the protective elements of real gear. Now, these aren't as robust as your typical touring jacket, but for city speeds (think 25-40mph), these will do the job. And typically, when you're a city rider, I would be more worried about the impact injury than abrasion. 

Cassie: $379.95, XS-2XL

• Advanced poly-fiber and synthetic wool main shell incorporates performance thermal down insulation to offer optimal warmth while being light, bulk-free and without restricting movement.
• Removable CE certified shoulder and elbow protectors offer class-leading riding protection.
• Padded chest and back compartments (no one ever offers this feature, except RS Taichi from what I've seen) on jacket allow for Bio Armor chest and back protection accessory upgrade.
• Easily detachable hood
• External pockets with snap button and zip closures and internal water-resistant document pocket.
• Reflective detailing for visibility.
• Gun metal finishing trim on button and pull chord tabs.
• Snap connection loops for attachment to Alpinestars riding pants and jeans. 

Francie: $269.95, XS-2XL

• Diamond rip-stop main shell construction incorporating performance thermal insulation that offers optimal heat while being light, bulk-free and without restricting movement.
• Removable CE certified shoulder and elbow protectors offer class-leading riding protection.
• Padded back compartment allows for Bio Armor chest and back protection accessory upgrade.
• Storm hood comprises elastic edging to secure hood in windy conditions.
• Adjustable interior gator with snap button connectors forms barrier against wind and helps secure jacket to the body.
• Convenient exterior pockets with zippers, plus inner mesh pockets and water-resistant inner wallet pocket with easy-locate red zip.
• Main, frontal zipper, incorporates zip garage (no idea what this means) to help secure zip and avoids skin contact irritation.
• Elastic cuff edges with thumb grip to secure sleeve in place and help seal out elements.
• Waist and back shock cord adjustment for highly personalized fit on and off the bike.
• Brushed fiber collar interior for comfort, plus shock cord adjuster.
• Reflective detailing for improved garment visibility.
• Snap-button loops to attach to Alpinestars pants or jeans.

Quasar Mesh Jacket

The Quasar appears to be a fully ventilated jacket for summer/spring riding. No removable liners, just lots of ventilation for maximum comfort while riding in hot conditions. I especially like the light gray color option.

$249.95, XS-2XL

• Constructed with durable and abrasion resistant 600 Denier Polyester Fabric with extended mesh panels on the torso and arms providing substantial airflow when riding for superior comfort in warmer weather conditions.
• Sport fit with pre-curved sleeves for enhanced riding comfort.
• CE-certified Bio-Armor elbow and shoulder protectors for added impact protection.
• Chest and Back protector compartments with advanced poly-foam comfort padding (CE-certified Bio-Armor back protector insert (available as accessory).
• Internal waist connection zipper allows attachment to selected Alpinestars leather and textile pants.
• External zipped hand pockets, plus internal pockets and waterproof wallet pocket.
• Sleeve volume adjusters on biceps and Velcro cuff adjustment for improved fit.
• Accordion stretch inserts on elbows for improved fit in the riding position.
• Premium YKK® zippers used throughout the garment.
• Reflective details for improved nighttime visibility.

 

AST-1 WP Pants

I believe the AST-1 is the updated version of the Stella ST-5 pants. It looks like these have an integrated waterproof membrane (breathable) so they're going to be a better for your spring/fall riding seasons. But if you live in a mild climate like San Francisco, these would work well year round. I especially like the subtle storage pocket on the front thigh. Of course, these have armor at the hips and knees.

$179.95, XS-2XL

• Specifically constructed for an optimized women’s fit Alpinestars’ Stella AST-1 Waterproof Pants gives the rider peace of mind with a combination of practicality and performance.
• The pre-curved leg construction and articulated knee design enhance comfort and mobility, while extra protection is afforded by strategically placed ballistic nylon reinforcements. (i.e. Incredible Fit!)
• Multi-fabric poly-shell construction yields the optimal combination of durability, protection and weight.
• Protection against the elements provided by an integrated 100% waterproof and breathable membrane.
• Pre-curved legs and an articulated knee construction enhance freedom of movement while riding.
• Impact protection provided by removable CE certified knee protectors.
• Ballistic nylon reinforcements on the thighs, knees and seat area.
• Integrated high visibility reflective piping enhances rider visibility in poor light conditions.
• Internal hip compartments are lined with ergonomically tapered PE comfort foam for superior riding comfort.
• Adjustable waist and secure sliding hook closure for a snug, tailored fit.
• Extended zippered boot gussets ensure a tight seal around the ankle and facilitate fitting and removal.
• External flat storage pocket.

New Land GTX Jacket and Pants

If you'v read my review of the REV'IT Legacy, you know that these riding outfits are few and far between. Like it's competitor, Dainese, Alpinestars knows how to create a suit that fits like a glove. The addition of GORE-TEX (GTX for short) provides a ton of versatility when it comes to riding year round especially between extreme temperatures. It's one of the best ways to ride between different climates and remain comfortable, warm and dry. Sadly, it also adds to the price point. But in my opinion, wearing GTX is an absolute necessity for year round riding. The materials used for both pieces consist of a Rip-Stop (it won't tear in a vertical direction, but zig/zag to prevent further damage), abrasion resistant TEFLON coated textile to provide maximum protection in major impact zones (shoulders, elbows, knees). The fitment on this outfit looks long and tall. I hope that I'll be able to see samples at some point to give you more details.

Jacket - $599.95, S-2XL

• Ergonomically optimized and designed for women this jacket incorporates a TEFLON® engineered textile and a GORE-TEX® membrane to provide superb protection against the elements while being light, durable and breathable. Configurable and designed to accompany the Stella New Land GORE-TEX® pants, this jacket gives protection with CE-certified protectors.
• Superior textile construction featuring GORE-TEX® membrane for protection against elements and breathability.
• Rip-stop textile, tear-resistant TEFLON® coated shoulder and elbow areas for additional abrasion dissipation in key impact zones.
• Arm air intakes and rear exhaust zippers, offers greater regulation of internal airflow for enhanced riding comfort for short and long-distances.
• Removable long-sleeve thermal liner with fleece collar ensures comfort on hot or cold days.
• Removable CE-certified Bio-Armor on shoulders and elbows is light, breathable and ergonomic for class-leading impact protection.
• Chest and back pad compartments with advanced thermo-formed protective padding (CE certified Bio Armor back protector insert available as accessory).
• Additional reinforced external padding zones on the back.
• Reflective zones and colored piping increase rider visibility in poor or night-time conditions.
• Neoprene comfort edges on collar and cuffs.
• Internal waterproof pockets.
• Elongated rear profiling for comfort and protection in the riding position.
• Easy-find red internal lining zip and external pull-tabs for convenience.
• Pre-curved, articulated sleeves with gusseted Velcro cuffs enhance fit and comfort in the riding position.  External storage provided by two chest pockets and two cargo pockets on the front of the jacket.
• Non-aggressive micro-Velcro® used throughout the garment.
• Premium YKK zippers with twin sliders on front zipper.
• Optimized for use with the Stella New Land GORE-TEX® Pant with internal waist connection zipper.

Pants - $469.95, S-XL

• Alpinestars Stella New Land touring pants incorporate a TEFLON® engineered textile and a GORE-TEX® membrane to provide superb protection against the elements while being light, durable and breathable.
• Configurable and designed to accompany the Stella New Land GORE-TEX® Jacket, these pants give strategic protection with CE-certified knee protectors.
• Superior textile construction featuring GORE-TEX® membrane for protection against elements and breathability. Removable long thermal liner with fleece collar ensures comfort on hot or cold days.
• Strategically placed zippered air intakes and outlets for short and long-distance riding comfort.
• Rip-stop textile, tear-resistant TEFLON® coated seat and knee areas for additional abrasion performance on key impact zones.
• Removable CE-certified Bio-Armor on knees is lightweight, breathable and ergonomic for class-leading impact protection.
• Reflective zones and colored piping increase rider visibility in poor conditions.
• Easy-find red-tipped external zip pockets.
• Pre-contoured leg construction with back and knee stretch panels.
• Adjustable Velcro® waist closure for optimized fit.
• Zip and Velcro® leg cuff closure fits around various boot models.
• Optimized for use with the New Land GORE-TEX® Jacket with internal waist connection zipper.

Look for my full review of this outfit in Late October after I get back from Ireland :D

Motegi Leather Race Suit

The Motegi features an all new design for the women's line, based on the popular men's version. Personally, I could do with less logos but it's hard to pass up an exquisitely made suit. It may not look like it, but women's Alpinestars suits are proportioned really well for women with curves. This suit is constructed of 1.3mm grain leather, and reinforced Aramid stretch panels where you need them, a ventilated back hump, perforated panels on the front of the chest and legs, and a removable mesh liner (a built in undersuit for moisture wicking breathability).

Size Euro 38-50, $799.95

• Constructed with premium 1.3mm full-grain leather for unsurpassed abrasion resistance, comfort and durability.
• Multiple-stitched main seam construction provides maximum tear resistance in the event of an impact.
• High-density perforations on front panels offer optimum cooling performance.
• Extended, reinforced Aramidic fiber stretch panels on the sides of the torso, arms, crotch and back of the knees.
• Alpinestars exclusively profiled ventilated back hump is aerodynamically sculpted for superior air flow and reduced drag at high speeds.
• Lightweight, contoured mesh calf panels enhance fit and ensure comfort underneath riding boots.
• Removable, CE certified GP protectors in the elbows and shoulders feature injection molded profiles and dual density foam padding for exceptional protection against impact forces.
• Alpinestars race-derived, CE approved GP-R knee protectors feature a floating construction for a precise fit in the riding position.
• TPR reinforcements on the shoulder offer additional abrasion and shock resistance in a key impact area.
• Integrated PE foam padding on the hips, coccyx, upper arms and sides of the torso further enhance fit and comfort while riding.
• Snap connection system allows integration with Alpinestars CE level 2 certified Bionic Race Back Protector for the ultimate in protection.
• Removable mesh liner features built-in stretch inserts to ensure a snug fit and is washable for extra convenience.
• Premium YKK fasteners used throughout the garment including flat profile YKK® Semi Auto Lock wrist zippers.
• Replaceable Alpinestars PU Sport kneesliders.
• Reflective detailing on front and back for improved rider visibility.

All items available for Preorder: Revzilla.com

Recommendations for Women's Motorcycle Boots

Updated 6/11/2013

Hopefully you've read my personal philosophy about riding boots. If not, I highly recommend taking a look before passing on the idea of investing a pair of boots that offer more protection than those cute, really stylish "motorcycle" boots that you saw at the mall.

The main difference between a protective riding boot and those cute, wedgy Cole Haan, Nine West or other boots you're thinking about wearing is protection. I'll say it again, PROTECTION. This time in bold. PROTECTION.

I don't know what it is, but many riders (including myself, back when I was a noob) forget about their feet. Our feet do almost everything on our motorcycles! Braking, stopping, shifting. It's so important to have this part of our body covered too.

As I mention in my boots overview, one of the main jobs your boots are supposed to do is to keep your feet from being crushed. Not by a car, not by a truck, but just by your own motorcycle!  The fact that you're small ankle bones are vulnerable to the weight of your 400-500lb beast is more than enough to brake, fracture or shatter bones in your feet/ankles.  I'm not saying boots will eliminate the possibility of injury, but just like the rest of our gear, they minimize the risk. I'll take a fracture or sprain over a break/shattering any day!

So I'm going to give you a few recommendations for real boots that offer real protection where you need them. These are all comfortable for walking, breathable, waterproof and will last you a good 3-5 years with almost daily wear and tear. They're all meant to be worn under your riding pants. Although there may be space to tuck your jeans in, if you're wearing actual motorcycle pants then you're going to wear them over the boots.

All of the sport touring style boots below (non track looking) would also be perfect on a scooter. Super comfortable and a clean look.

Keep in mind that none of these offer the protection that a track boot offers in terms of extra ankle support/bracing, shin protection and reinforcement in key impact points. But they offer way more protection than those hiking boots, doc martens, horseback riding or sneakers you're wearing, so save up some money and invest in a pair of Real riding boots!

Alpinestars Gran Torino GORE-TEX®

MSRP $299.95, RoadRider San Jose (local) Although these aren't on the Alpinestars website, they are the newest introduction for the women's line for Spring 2012.

Daytona Ladystar GORE-TEX®

I want to recommend these SO bad, but they're very difficult to get from Germany right now. Here's a link to my review and where you can call to find out about availability and how they saved my feet over and over again. They offer 2 inches of additional vertical height, the most of any women's (protective motorcycle) boot currently on the market (not including high heel boots, no) 

Dainese Siren

MSRP $229.00 Revzilla (online), DStore San Francisco (local) Euro sizes 36-42

The Siren I believe is an updated version of the previous Dainesella boot. I really like the styling on these.  These also feature a 3/4 length zipper to allow for ample calf space.  These also have a fairly narrow fit in the toebox as the toes are a little bit more tapered (not pointy, just not super round).

Dainese Luma GTX

MSRP $219.95 Revzilla (online), DStore San Francisco (local) Euro sizes  36-42 (~US 5.5 - 9.5)

The Luma is essentially the lower half of the Siren, which is fantastic if you have any issues finding boots to fit your calves! These are also fully waterproof with a GORE-TEX liner, which is a really great deal at this price point. I think these offer the most heel height next to the Daytonas.

Gaerne Rose

MSRP $209.95 Revzilla (online), Gaerne.com Euro sizes  35-42

Read my review here.

I had to go up a full size to fit into these, to a 38, because they were sooo narrow, especially at the entry. Order one full size up and you'll be much happier. They'll break in over time, as will any leather boot.  If you have narrowish feet, you'll like the fit especially around the ankles and the arch. I think the zippers are a little skinny, so I'd use a zipper pull on them to make on and off easier, and it won't wear out as quickly. You can really tell the quality of a good boot (motorcycling or otherwise) by the quality of the zipper. Out of all the riding boots I've tried on, these have the narrowest calf fitment since the zipper goes all the way to the top. I have a 14" calf measurement and they fit me perfectly.

Sidi Livia Rain

MSRP $220.00 www.motonation.com Revzilla (online), Roadrider (local)

The Livia is an update to the old Jasmine. In addition to the styling changes, they've added more reflective features and a reinforced toe shifter.  Very calf friendly, with a 3/4 zipper and velcro adjustment.  The fitment on Sidis is generally wider around the ankles, heels and calves. If you need more space in those areas, you'll appreciate the fit profile on these. Otherwise, consider the Dainese or Gaernes for a snugger overall fit.

TCX Aura

MSRP $219.99 Revzilla (online), TCXboots.com Euro sizes 38-42 (their website says they're offered starting at 35/US 5, but it doesn't look like that size is available through any retailers.) I'm usually a 7, and I wear a 37 in these.  Very calf friendly, with a 3/4 zipper and velcro adjustment. The toebox is tapered, (not pointy but not super round) so you may find them to be a little tight up there if you have a wider foot.

Want Even More Protection?

Maybe it's your first track day or you're looking for something for all around street riding. Here are some ideas. Keep in mind that these are designed a little more towards performance and more protection. They also have a very sporty, forward articulated riding position in the ankles. If you're riding an upright dual sport/ standard or cruiser, these will be far more uncomfortable than the sport touring styles above.

Alpinestars Stella SMX-5

 

MSRP $239.95 Euro 36-44 Alpinestars.com, RoadRider (local)

These are based on the men's SMX-5, offering the same features/function. Everyone I know who has these boots love the way they fit and feel. I'm told that in general, Alpinestars are more comfortable, but I think that's going to depend on your feet and what fits you the best. These fit generally snug all the way around (ankles, heels/arches).

Dainese ST Avant Race Lady

MSRP $299.95 www.dainese.com, Dstore San Francisco (local) Something that's a little different from other boots is the rear zipper, making it easier to step in and out.  This one is also vegan friendly, made of Lorica instead of cowhide. These fit generally snug all the way around (ankles, heels/arches).

Sidi Fusion Lei

MSRP $215.00

www.motonation.com, RoadRider (local) Read my review here.

Sidi Vertigo Lei

MSRP $300.00 www.motonation.com, RoadRider (local)

Read my review here.

If you're a fan of pink, you can still find last year's patent leather black and pink style in local dealerships, online or on MotoNation's website.   The Vertigo offers more protection than the Fusion and would be a great track boot with the extra heel and calf protection, as well as additional calf space adjustment to accommodate leathers.

Sadface. Another one bites the dust.

I am sad. Very sad. It's difficult finding top of the line women's motorcycle gear. Especially finding GORE-TEX motorcycle gear for women.

REV'IT released the Legacy GTX suit in the Fall of 2011. Just 2 seasons ago. I guess they didn't sell enough suits to keep offering this line. Which is really unfortunate. Given the price point, I guess I can't say I'm totally surprised. 

But its really difficult to say exactly why women weren't buying this suit. I've recommended it to quite a few people and I know of 3-5 offhand that purchased it because I recommended it. 

Both piece retailed for a little under $1100 total. Do you know any women who would spend that much on the best motorcycle suit? With the best abrasion resistance, great fitment and the main feature of an integrated GORE-TEX membrane?

Sadly I think most women wouldn't. What women do you know that spend more than $100 on themselves for anything these days? I dont know the answer to that. And I might just be thinking outloud. But I'm getting tired of hearing the same argument, that the women's gear isn't as good as the men's. Well, it WAS. Up until this suit went away. That's what sucks the most. I know that the products are out there and available for women. No, it's not the same number of options yet, for every 1 women's jacket there at least 10 others for men from various manufacturers.

But this is what I've been saying all along to everyone who tries to argue the case that there aren't enough options for women. There ARE. If I opened a store with Every line of women's gear in the shop, I'd probably need a few thousand square feet of floor space, if not more. 

The real problem is that most shops only carry a fraction of what's available. How are women supposed to shop and buy more gear if 'more' isn't there to choose from? And that's the vicious cycle. Yes, the options are all online. But it's nearly impossible, and downright difficult to shop for gear online. Some sites have made a conscious effort to sell women's gear as best as they can, and that's great but not enough. So that brings me to another issue. If there's all these options online and most women are shopping that way, then why didn't this particular suit sell? 

At this point, it has to be price point. But the problem is that you have to really see a suit like this in person to make it worth it. Seeing is believing and especially with more expensive motorcycle suits. It all looks the same online. Until you walk into a store, try it all on and see/feel/touch it for yourself. It works for me more often than not, and that's why I'm able to help so many women who come to Scuderia. You'd never think of jumping online and spending $1,000 until you put that suit on and feel the difference. Doesn't work for me every time, but it definitely does more often than not. 

That's the key to selling more women's gear, more shops must carry more options. But more importantly, shops have to CARE about carrying more options. And they have to be invested in apparel specialists, training, informing and educating their female customers. 

But it's a two way street. If you have all these options in front of you, you must be willing to SPEND more than $100 on your body! Come on, be honest for a minute. When's the last time you spent $500 on One piece of gear? I don't think enough women are willing to spend the $$ on themselves, either. Spending $500 on a new pair of shoes and an iPhone? NO problem. $500 on a helmet or a jacket to fully protect your body? Oh Hell NO. Way too expensive. WTF kind of logic is that? 

/endrant