Riding Suits...

[bygdawg]

If you had to choose between these two suits, which would you choose and why?

Fieldsheer Highland One-Piece TX Suit

http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/photos/OG/g11907.jpg

http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/item.aspx?style=11907&department=114&division=1#


Tour Master Cortech Suit

http://www.motorcycle.com/mo/mcbeware/mcphotos/cortechtitlet.jpg

Motorcycle.com had this to say about the Cortech:

More and more manufacturers are turning away from cow hides and looking towards myriad variations of synthetics -- like nylon, for instance -- to provide their customers with fashionable protection. The folks at Tour Master have been doing this about as long as anybody in the business and have a reputation for making riding suits that are of above-average quality using time-tested designs, both structurally and visually speaking.

They recently sent us the newest addition to their line of products: a three-quarter-length jacket that matches up with a pair of similarly manufactured pants. Both items make use of a number of nice features that you wouldn't normally associate with a suit in this price range.

There are two vents on the chest, two on the arms, two on the back and even a large pocket on the lower back, bicycle jersey style. The Jacket also has removable triple-density armor in the shoulders and elbows along with handy velcro closures for the sleeves and velcro straps along the waist, both of which help to control ventilation and body temperature. Both the collar and sleeve-ends feature a corduroy-type of material where skin contact is frequent, helping to reduce chafing. The Thinsulate lining zips out easily and further expands the jacket's usable temperature range.

The zipper and velcro or button snap and velcro closures are very secure. Pockets are very usable, easily opened and closed securely. Even the ventilation worked well and the integrated armor is a very nice touch. The only caveat with the armor was that, on a cruiser where the location of the handlebars requires you to raise your hands above chest level, the shoulder armor would rub the bottom of some helmets, making swiveling around during lane changes a bit tedious. On most bikes, though, this was never an issue.

The Pants were comfortable, though not as wind-proof as the jacket. Also, the full-length zipper/velcro combination was very helpful getting into and out of the suit. Like on our favorite Aerostich suits, the velcro straps at the pant leg bottom, very helpful in tailoring fit for each leg or pair of boots. Again, the integrated armor and pockets were a nice, functional touch, though we would like to see some more of the brilliant blue on the pants and not just on the jacket. Hey, our legs need to look good, too!

This pant/jacket combo is very well designed and more functional and more comfortable than many higher priced suits we have worn. Removable linings, reflective panels, ventilation and body armor are all good things we look for in any suit. Tour Master has been in this business for a long time and it shows. The suit's functionality out paces its style. But if the subtle look is the one you're after, and it's a decent set of riding gear with good bang-for-the-buck that you seek, this new Cortech jacket and pant are well worth a look especially considering the garments will only set you back $269.99 for the jacket and 179.95 for the pant.

[dduelin]

I would, and have, chosen Tourmaster/Cortech two piece outfits. I live in the south and we really don't have much winter weather. I rode last weekend in 27 degree weather and this afternoon in 79 degree weather using the same jacket. A two piece outfit is more versatile than a one piece for the three seasons we do have. You can wear jacket liners in, out, thermal liners in, out, or mesh only. If you choose the Tourmaster Flex as the jacket it can be used as a mesh jacket or full textile with all the panels zipped in. If you buy one pair of overpants and one pair of mesh pants paired up with a Intake or Flex jacket you can literally ride in temps from 100+ down to about 25 degrees. If the morning is 40 and the afternoon is 70 the liner and thermal liner can come out at the right time and go in one saddlebag and you are warm and protected with armour in the right places.

[GitSum]

I commute daily, 90 miles in southern California traffic, rain or shine. (yes I road today) I have an older, Cortech one piece suit that I could not do without. It has a removable liner for the really cold days and yet I still wear it in the middle on summer on 100+ days.

I prefer a one piece, because for me, it is easier to put on or take off. My has zippers on the outside of the legs and one zipper down the front. It is very easy to step into and zip up. With that said, and knowing that Cortech no longer makes this one piece, if I had to replace it, I would go with some other brand one piece. The cortech also has tons of padding if I ever needed it - back protector, knees, elbows, etc. The only problem I ever had with it was the leg zippers, one of them broke completely and the other one the tab that you pull on came off

[Trekker]

I love my Tourmaster Cortech jacket & pants. Very versatile with removable liners. Great quality too. Don't forget to check NewEnough.com

[bygdawg]

I've got to decide, as I think I'm going with one or the other.

[Clark]

Aerostich Roadcrafter. One piece. Great commuter suit. Great touring suit. Like a favorite pair of jeans. Great protection and wears like iron.

I have friends that also love the Fieldsheer suit, though...

[Bones]

I have no personal experience with Fieldsheer. I have Cortech sport jacket and overpants. Thoughtfully designed, well made. I wear them all the time, as you can see from my avatar. I'd buy Cortech again, though I might go for the 3/4 jacket next time.

P.S. One thing I wish they'd offer is a wider color choice, such as high viz yellow. Be seen.

[dmulk]

Cortech. I love mine. Got it at a discount used on ebay. They had been worn once.... so someone didn't like it. Their loss, I say!

<D>

[UNTMatt]

Of those two, I'd take the Cortech. Have just liked their products better than Fieldsheer.

I ride now, with the Olympia AST jacket and Ranger II pants which, imho, are two of the most well thought out peices of riding gear. I have had the opportunity to try them out in 80°+ temps and the vents work better than I thought they would.

Personally, I don't care for one piece suits for street riding. Track use is another story with one piece leathers the only way to go.

[Maximo]

I have the fieldsheer highland pants and a tourmaster solution jacket. Hands down the tourmaster is a better product.

[Maximo]

Hold the press... if you're into 1 piece suits, have you seen the new one by olympia? Looks pretty nice
http://www.olympiamotosports.com/phantom/Phantom.htm

[SALTYDOG56]

GREETINGS FROM THE NORTH EAST.

You might consider this jacket pants combo, got some real nice revews. click the next button to see the other color and the pants. http://www.olympiamotosports.com/ast_mens/ast_mens.htm Also got a really good price from this online dealer, and they may ship it for free if you ask. http://www.amotostuff.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=SFNT Its not on ther web page but thet are an Olyimpia dealer. Nice Stuff Great Service, would recomend!

William

[UNTMatt]

Hold the press... if you're into 1 piece suits, have you seen the new one by olympia? Looks pretty nice
http://www.olympiamotosports.com/phantom/Phantom.htm

Looks like it's a one piece based on the AST and Ranger II pants. Good stuff...that's what I wear now.

[GRN]

Neither listed in poll... will either go with Olympia, or a stitch.

[bygdawg]

I think I'll go with the Fieldsheer, as I've only been reading good things about it, and the price is too good to pass up.

[RTETR]

I'd have to stray from both and stick once again with a Aerostich Darien jacket and pants...


You can't beat the Stich... :bow1:

[GRN]

I think I'll go with the Fieldsheer, as I've only been reading good things about it, and the price is too good to pass up.

IMHO... there are a lot better reasons to to put at the top of the list, like the option to get a suit in colors with better viz factor than black/gray. How much is being seen worth?

[bygdawg]

Excellent pt., but if they don't see my flashing LED's and reflective tape, I doubt they are going to pay attention to reflectors on my suit.

[GRN]

Excellent pt., but if they don't see my flashing LED's and reflective tape, I doubt they are going to pay attention to reflectors on my suit.

From a purely scientific standpoint, the more visability of "memory shapes" (meaning shapes people immediately associate, like a solid color helmet, or human anatomy), the less processing/interpretation, the quicker the reaction time. Hands down, nothing accomplishes that on a MC, from all possible perspectives, better than wearing solid high viz colors. I'm all for lights and extra reflective materials on the bike (being carefull to create simple shapes with it), but those are only part of the game.

Another interesting point of data to gather if you can is to get end user feedback from folks who have gotten off. I know a few folks who have done some nasty high speed, high side get offs in Stitch and Olympia gear, and have been able to continue wearing it due to it holding up so well... and the level of protection has proven to be outstanding. Not to say others won't, but I haven't ever met anyone to give me additional feedback on the two you asked about specifically.

I guess I'm not really understanding why you asked the question because you don't appear to be utilizing the feedback of user experiences that have been offered here. Are we understanding your question? In everything I have done in my life, I have found few real truths... and "you get what you pay for" is one of them :)

[bygdawg]

I knew I'd have several folks saying aerostitch. However, my choice really comes down to the two that I listed above. I believe the aerostitch to be an exceptional suit but don't plan on buying one at $800, especially if I can find a suitable substitute at half the price or less. I believe that the fieldsheer will provide at least as good of protection as I get from my Joe Rocket and offer round-season wearability to boot.

[RTETR]

I've been on 2 wheels now for almost 20 years and tried most everything from both North American and Europe and prefer a Stich suit for many reasons both function and form.

But perhaps a rather unexpected source may validate GNR's post above is that even the toughies at Harley Davidson choose Aerostich suits for R&D and testing.

Could it be that even an HD rider knows enough to wear Stich under the black leathers?

Cheers,

[bygdawg]

Again, I believe the aerostitch to be an exceptional suit. I'm not saying that it isn't. It's just out of my price range for the moment.

[RTETR]

try searching Ebay... it would be worth tracking for a while and see if anthing comes up... and well worth your coin if ya can get a deal...

IMHO...

We all have limted funds I know... damn wives... lol

Good luck with whatever you choose.

[bygdawg]

I'll keep an eye out on there. Thanks.

[sherob]

I don't know if you are considering using the suit on the track, but Aerostich isn't approved for it :rolleyes: Make sure and check this if you are planning on using the suit on track day :cool:

[bygdawg]

Nope...I only do track days in the car. :) This would just be something to keep me from having to pack my Joe Rocket jacket, pants, rainsuit, and heated suit, although I'll probably still carry the heated suit on the trip out West in June. Also, I don't have to pack any leather. In short, it makes packing much lighter. :-)

[sherob]

I always liked the Cortech line... good stuff! I had 3 of their jackets... :)

[bygdawg]

Yes...It appears to be really good stuff. I was surprised to not see more of their stuff at the show this weekend.

[Raven]

The Fieldsheer looks nice but I'd be worried that it might be too hot for summer in the West. I'm assuming you're looking for something for your big trip this summer and also assuming that maximum temp range is important. I'd probably go with the 2 piece (even though the one piece is easier on and off) just to have the option of wearing the pants or not. Definitely check on the effectiveness of the venting system no matter what you get.

+1 on the suggestion to go with a 3/4 length jacket.

[bygdawg]

Good pt. I plan to call them and speak to them directly about the suit before ordering. Plus, I haven't totally made up my mind yet. I just need something so that I can reduce my packing down a bit. This is going to be a long trip, and I don't have a trailer or a Wing. LOL

[SALTYDOG56]

Greetings

As far as visability issues the Olimpia both the one piece and the 2 piece come in the high visability colors.

Also when considering the 2 piece suit dose it have the ability to zip into the pants. Think about sliding! The jacket would ride up and exspose your back!

Im not sure about the other 2 piece suits but the aero stich daren doese not zip together so I have been told.

Now the new line of Olyimpia Ast does have a zipper to connect to the jacket pants, Somting to consider.

Also I did try on a fieldsheer and it did seem like it would be hot in the summer!

Just my 2 cents

William

[George]

given what I've read here, I'd go with the Tourmaster.

BUT...

I'm holding out for a used 2-piece Road Crafter.

My opinion,

George
in Kingman, Arizona

[bygdawg]

Greetings

As far as visability issues the Olimpia both the one piece and the 2 piece come in the high visability colors.

Also when considering the 2 piece suit dose it have the ability to zip into the pants. Think about sliding! The jacket would ride up and exspose your back!

Im not sure about the other 2 piece suits but the aero stich daren doese not zip together so I have been told.

Now the new line of Olyimpia Ast does have a zipper to connect to the jacket pants, Somting to consider.

Also I did try on a fieldsheer and it did seem like it would be hot in the summer!

Just my 2 cents

William

You didn't think the open vents would provide enough airflow? Why not? I agree on the one piece as opposed to the two on the road slide thing. I would think continual material would be stronger than a zippered section.

[SALTYDOG56]

Yes you right the one piece is better for protection,

but with a 2 peice more breathability. TheAST Olyimpia has some Nice vent set ups, and although I have not looked at there one piece Im sure it has some nice vents.

Also with a two piece you have the option to split it up depending on the weather.

Also consider gettting in and out of a full piece suit as aposed to dawning a jacket and pants set up.

I have had my eyes on the Olimpia AST and pants for a month. So im just throwing out some thought on both to help us, and others make the right decision!

William

[bygdawg]

Well...The two piece would certainly make bathroom breaks a little easier. :D

[BlaSTr]

I've never ridden with a one-piece suit as I prefer the flexibility and find that sometimes the best for me isn't from one manufacturer i.e. Tourmaster jacket or Spidi 3/4-length jacket and JR Alta Ego pants. Riding in the hot southeast means lots of ventillation when the temps are below 98, wind-burn protection above 98, superb rain protection, and quilted liners for those cool/cold mornings. Despite repeated reports that leather is better, I find that I'd rather be a bit more comfortable in the dog days of summer and rely on the armor and proper fit of the textile riding gear.

I also have 2 helmets for different riding conditions: flip-up for local riding and a full-face one for long rides.

[bygdawg]

I'm still leaning toward a suit, but I know that a suit isn't for everybody. Hey...If it works for you...that's what you need.

[bygdawg]

Well...I just got off the phone with Fieldsheer, and they told me that they thought it might be a bit too hot for summer riding here in the South. I thought that was rather honest of them. They could've said, "oh no...it's perfect for that." Anyway, I'm not sure any suit isn't going to be too hot for riding here during the summer, as it tends to run in the high 90's quite often. Which leads me to my next question, how come no one makes a mesh suit with a zip in liner? I might be better off just keeping my mesh jacket and pants and getting liners for both or getting a larger jacket so that I can wear it over my Tourmaster rain suit. I have the heated suit for the cold weather stuff. I don't know. I'm more confused now than ever. LOL All I want is the perfect suit for every riding condition in a nice neat package that stores easily. Is that too much to ask for? :D Oh...And if you went that route, would you wear mesh over rain gear or rain gear over mesh?

[UNTMatt]

Oh...And if you went that route, would you wear mesh over rain gear or rain gear over mesh?

Rain gear over mesh for two reasons. One, you're left with wet gear when you remove the rain liners. Second, it's easier and faster to get the rain gear on and off when it's over the mesh.

Been there done that with both.

The AST has great venting; however, any non-mesh gear is going to be warm when the temps get into the 90's and will push most peoples limit's when those temps near the triple digits. I prefer the two peice suits for multiple reasons. One, I don't always wear the pants. Second, there are times when removing the jacket is all that I want to do and third, it's easier to use the restroom.

I would highly recommend the Olympia AST jacket and ranger II pants. One because you can purchase seperately helping with the cost issue and second because of the quality for the price. I paid $500 for my set and have no regrets ($300/jacket). I've been in downpours and not a drop got through. 30° weather with just a t-shirt and jeans underneath. Can't say enough good about that gear.

The only time would like a one peice is kangaroo leather and on the track.

[bygdawg]

Maybe just this in an XXL to fit over all the gear:
http://www.tourmaster.com/xcart/product.php?productid=86&cat=8

[HankSTer]

Hey dawg,
I bought a rain suit like 5 or 6 years ago, stays in the tailbag always, unless in use.
Made by First Gear, works ok. But iirc, the sizes are kinda like overpants, they know you're going to have gear on under them.
Might be a good idea to check with the mfg to see about proper size.

Definately recommend them, wouldn't be without one.

Regards,

[bygdawg]

Yeah...I have the tourmaster now, but it isn't large enough to go over the gear, so I'm going to try to sell it on ebay and go to the dealership and try a suit on over my gear. If it fits well over the gear and seems to seal up at all the proper points, I'll just buy it and save myself about $225.

[Computer Nerd]

I'm like 20,000 feet tall. I have to buy the BMW suits because nobody else makes anything long enough.

I could get something custom made, but the BMW is cheaper than all that.

[dmulk]

Bygdawg: Are you saying that the Cortech rain suit is not big enough to fit over their own cortech suit?

I have the two piece cortech suit and have been considering their rain suit (which their ad says will fit).

Just wondering.

THanks,

<D>

[bygdawg]

Not at all. I was talking about wearing my Joe Rocket gear that "does not" have the liner in either of them (pants or jacket). I was going to wear the tourmaster one piece rain suit over it, but it's not large enough. I purchased an Elite II the other day, and it works perfect with the Joe gear.

[pepollock]

I agree with GRN. Solid, recognizable shapes register in the observer's brain. Look at the various kinds of camouflage. They break up the shape. Some of the camo used on ships has been pretty unlikely but effective. That's why racer-rep helmets don't provide the conspicuity of solid colors (solid white and solid yellow are at the top). You want to be seen? Wear the Aerostich Roadcrafter in hi-viz yellow. Yikes!

By the way, my vote goes to the Aerostich 2-piece. Pricey? Yep, and I'm worth it.

:!:

[bygdawg]

No doubt Aero is probably the stuff out there, but I'm looking for a suitable compromise. After searching long and hard, I have concluded that any suit is just going to be too hot for the heat that we have here in the South. Thus, I'm going to go with Joe Rocket mesh jacket and pants, and my heated suit for the winter weather. My Rocket jacket has a liner in it, and I also have a two piece elite II rainsuit for when things get really nasty.

[deanrd]

No doubt Aero is probably the stuff out there, but I'm looking for a suitable compromise. After searching long and hard, I have concluded that any suit is just going to be too hot for the heat that we have here in the South. Thus, I'm going to go with Joe Rocket mesh jacket and pants, and my heated suit for the winter weather. My Rocket jacket has a liner in it, and I also have a two piece elite II rainsuit for when things get really nasty.

A good rainsuit over your gear has a tendancy to keep some warmth in when you need it in a pinch. They are air and waterproof to add another barrier to your layering. My .02cts.

[Raven]

BTW, the mesh jackets and such are great in places with higher humidity (oh, like Florida, Georgia, Bama, etc.) but you can get really dehydrated really fast in places with low humidity (like West Texas, Arizona, New Mexico, etc.).

Something to be aware of as you head west - the airflow through the mesh will suck the moisture out of you before you realize it and you can be feeling extremely ill in no time at all. Definitely plan to carry (and use) an hydration system so you can drink while you ride.

[bygdawg]

So what are you saying, my cup holder isn't going to look cool enough out that way? :crackup Also, I plan on carrying my sierra cooling vest. :)

[Raven]

Yep, that's what I'm sayin'!

Cup holders just don't cut it out here in the desert. Not using an hydration pack is doable if you have a small gas tank and are stopping every hour for gas anyway but with a 300+ mile range you can find yourself in a heap of trouble if you wait to drink until your next gas stop.

BTW, +1 on the cooling vest - they really make a huge difference but be aware that it will dry out much quicker here in the desert with your mesh jacket than with a regular jacket.

I'm only sticking on this b/c I've spent a couple of summers as a mc tour guide and have folks get themselves in trouble really quickly because they don't pay attention to hydration and get dehydrated much more quickly with their mesh gear than I do with my regular gear.

[bygdawg]

Excellent advice. I'll take all that into account as we head through that area. Perhaps you can join up with us for a brief jaunt of the trip or longer jaunt if you so desire.

Later,
bygdawg