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Posted by 2beers
- April 08, 2014, 05:49:15 AMGetting organized is half the battle, GB! I'm sure some riders with road experience will chime in here with good, practical answers. Here's my 2 cents to get it started 
I researched rain gear a couple of weeks ago. No matter how 'waterproof' the textile jackets advertise to be, I didn't find owner opinions that backed up that claim. I opted for Frog Togs, jacket and pants. The material is breathable, rather than a vinyl-type that can quickly make a rider too hot.
Although I haven't had the gear on in highway driving conditions, I had the opportunity to use that Frog Tog set in pouring down rain for four hours at the riding course. I'm pleased to report that my jacket and clothing under the Togs remained completely dry. If I had remembered to close the vents in my helmet, I wouldn't have had a drop of water on me at all, lol.
Wet hands weren't at all pleasant in my armored but mesh gloves, so I would definitely opt for waterproof gloves. Don't for get about BOOTS, too!
--The Bride
Posted by greenbarn
- April 07, 2014, 22:20:43 PMPlanning, if all goes well, to make the trip to Drift In. 477 miles from here. This will be my first long bike trip, so I figured I'd better gear up. I want to buy what I need but don't want to spend a bunch of money on stuff I won't need or use.
My biggest concern, really, is riding in the rain. I haven't ridden in much rain, and probably won't between now and then, so want to make sure I'm geared up right. I figure like any long trip there's a high likelihood of riding in some rain.
Rain Gear: I have a Joe Rocket combo jacket (mesh + rainproof + liner) that I thought I would probably be wearing on the trip. Is this adequate for rain protection, or should I get a dedicated rain suit?
Pants: Seems like it would it be smart to get a pair of riding pants? Is it better to get a waterproof pair, or a non-waterproof pair + rain pants??
Gloves: Own mesh-back riding gloves, and lined leather gloves- neither are waterproof. Should get a pair of waterproof? Suggestions?
Need a gear bag in addition to my saddle bags- to carry all the extra gloves... Any suggestions?
Tires: Planning to have new tires on the 1500 this spring- back one is worn out, and front isn't that far off. So that shouldn't be an issue.
Mechanicals: Hopefully, the bike will be in tip-top shape by then.