Women and Motorcycles Are Such a Sight to Behold

Women and Motorcycles Are Such a Sight to Behold
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jenny_Carson]Jenny Carson

Things have changed nowadays and gender equality has been practiced even in extreme sports as motorcycle riding. In the past, the sport has been thought to be exclusively for men. All the gear associated with motorcycle riding has also been designed for male use. Now, everything has changed because ladies have taken an interest in the sport too. Apparel manufacturers have come to realize this fact and have catered to ladies needs by providing several options for their motorcycle riding fashion style.

Today, it is very easy to see stores online and offline who are selling women's motorcycle gear. These gears come in all sizes, shapes, and styles that make it fun for shopping. Great motorcycle names such as Harley Davidson also makes these gears more accessible to brand conscious women by introducing their own women's Harley Davidson boots line. They even have their own jacket, gloves, and trousers collection which will complement their boots.

Motorcycle jackets for women have seen a big change over the years. Black has been a biker's color but nowadays, almost any color is possible to wear on a motorcycle. Women of today are no longer limited to the basic black; in fact, jackets are one way of making your personality stand out from the rest. Bright colored jackets are very eye-catching and are perfect gifts to give.

Women off a motorcycle are sexy enough, what more when they are on one. What makes women sexier on the motorcycle is the boots that she is wearing. Sexiness can be personified in the boots that one is wearing. Boots from the women's Harley Davidson boots collection exemplify the sexiness of a woman by creating several styles which has various details like buckles, straps, heels, and fringes. These boots may come in black but they still give a woman the sexy edge.

To completely match the woman's motorcycle apparel, a handsome looking pair of gloves is necessary for an accent. The choice is up to you whether or not you want your gloves to complement your jacket or you want it to be the focal point of your entire outfit. Usually, gloves are sold together with jackets. But if you want an entirely different glove collection you can use, then feel free to mix and match your gloves. Just make sure though that the gloves are really intended for women.

Lastly, the helmet may be a piece of protective device but it is also something that shows the world your personality. Having a beautiful helmet brings the point down especially when you cruise down the road. You can even have it personalized by having it airbrushed. The only thing that will limit you when you have your helmet personalized is your imagination as almost all styles and designs can be made.

It is a good thing that these items are already available for women because motorcycles and women really look great together. There is something sexy about a woman on a motorcycle and it is even made sexier by accessorizing with these protective gears.

For more tips and information about women's Harley Davidson boots, please check out http://www.harley-davidson-boots.net.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jenny_Carson
http://EzineArticles.com/?Women-and-Motorcycles-Are-Such-a-Sight-to-Behold&id=1799707

Women's Motorcycle Jackets Vs Men's Motorcycle Jackets

Women's Motorcycle Jackets Vs Men's Motorcycle Jackets
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Dona_Rosa]Dona Rosa

The very phrase 'women's motorcycle jacket' may conjure up visions of tough looking women on huge motorcycles looking for a fight. Nothing could be farther from the truth.

Today, the sight of a woman on a motorcycle is not a big deal. Now, if you are going to ride a motorcycle, you might as well wear a stylish looking women's motorcycle jacket.

Since motorcycle jackets, particularly leather jackets, are always associated with the macho male specimen of our species, some may feel that while motorcycle and women may mix, motorcycle jackets and women certainly do not mix.

However, you can find a whole range of jackets that are available for women motorcycle riders, as all the jackets are not focused on the tough female. For example, we can find many jackets that enhance the feminine appeal of the woman on the motorcycle.

The points to be considered when purchasing a motorcycle jacket for women are not very different as compared to purchasing a jacket for a male motorcycle rider. COnsdier these points:

1) The basic purpose for which the jacket is designed remains the same. However, there are some fine differences, which result from the inherent differences between men and women.

2) Generally, women are more compactly built as compared to men. Hence, one must pay special attention to the comfort levels while buying a jacket for women like a snug fit.

3) Further, the concept of style for men is different as compared to the concept of style for women. On the whole, women prefer to make a subtle and understated style statement when it comes to motorcycle jackets.

4) On the other hand, men prefer to make a loud, aggressive and macho statement about their style quotient.

This is most evident from the fact that there is a lot of differences in colors, patterns etc between men's jackets and women's jackets. You would very rarely find a red or a bottle green motorcycle jacket for men while such colors are very commonly found in the jackets for women.

5) Further, men prefer jackets with a lot of metal even though it unnecessarily enhances the weight of the jacket. On the other hand, very few women opt to make such a loud style statements through their jackets.

6) On the whole, one can find a variety of jackets available for women. Some are sporty, some are stylish and some are adorned with frills, while some give an overall cowboy or rather cowgirl look.

Of course, exceptions do exist. And some men prefer to be subtle and some women prefer to be loud and over the top.

However, generally, the choice of men and women in respect of style of the jackets differs and this must be kept in mind when you are buying the apparel.

As far as the safety aspect is concerned, there is very little difference between motorcycle jackets for the two sexes. It can hardly be said that women ride any slower than men. Speeding and reckless driving is a universal phenomenon.

For more info, visit: Rocky Top Leather and see what fine goods they have there like women's motorcycle jackets

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dona_Rosa
http://EzineArticles.com/?Womens-Motorcycle-Jackets-Vs-Mens-Motorcycle-Jackets&id=1772989

4 Critical Tips For Cold-Weather Motorcycling

4 Critical Tips For Cold-Weather Motorcycling
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jenny_Carson]Jenny Carson

Anytime is the right time to ride your motorcycle. Well, it is highly advisable to get off roads caked with snow and ice. Still, extreme temperatures should not prevent you from enjoying the thrill of the open road, on your motorcycle. In particular, you may enjoy cruising in the late autumn or throughout the wintertime. To avoid hypothermia and general discomfort while riding in frigid temperatures, it is wise to follow some guidelines, to cope with the rock-bottom temperatures:

1. Consider riding after daylight savings time ends

Many motorcyclists decide to store their vehicles for the winter, once daylight savings time ends. Exposing themselves to the frigid temperatures and precipitation of winter seems too much of a hassle. However, with the right gear and information, you can equip yourself for cold-weather riding.

2. A warm body is your destination

Your chief goal for cold-weather riding should be to maintain a warm body. In particular, you want to avoid experiencing hypothermia. Hypothermia is a condition in which your body's temperature drops below the minimum point required to function properly. Shivering is one of the first symptoms of hypothermia. When you experience it, some useful remedies include drinking a cup of coffee, tea, hot chocolate, etc., or getting indoors.

3. Handle wet clothing properly

When motorcycling, it is common for either the elements or precipitation to dampen you clothing. However, never let them dampen your spirits. You can take certain steps to fight the war against dampness. The first plan of action should be to change your wet gear as soon as possible. Wet gear will become virtually useless against the relentlessness of icy-cold temperatures.

Secondly, factor in how wind chill temperatures will influence your damp gear. While riding, the chilly effect of wind kicks in at 30 miles-per-hour. At this point, the wind that whips past your body makes the air feel colder than it actually is. Thus, the wind, when combined with wet gear and cold temperatures, can exponentially increase the likelihood of hypothermia. When in doubt--change!

4. Choose the right gear

Fortunately, wearing the right riding gear can help to reduce the effects of frigid temperatures in the late fall and wintertime. One of the keys to gearing up for winter riding is to dress in layers:

• Base Layer: Silk, nylon, and wool are some ideal fabrics. Avoid cotton as it dries slowly and retains water.
• Mid Layer: You should get most of your warmth from this layer. This should typically include manmade fabrics, such as fleece. Waterproof articles are an added bonus.
• Outer Layer: This includes a jacket and riding pants. You could consider textile over leather, as the latter is typically neither waterproof nor windproof.

Other winter gear to consider includes a helmet; gloves; and boots, such as Harley Davidson boots. Prioritize comfort and insulation.

Wintertime motorcycling is definitely an option for those who are ready to brave the elements. However, make sure to take certain precautions, in order to safeguard yourself against colds and the cold.

For more tips and information about harley davidson boots, please check out http://www.harley-davidson-boots.net.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jenny_Carson
http://EzineArticles.com/?4-Critical-Tips-For-Cold-Weather-Motorcycling&id=1645900

Dress For Cold Weather Motorcycle Riding

Dress For Cold Weather Motorcycle Riding
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Donald_Christie]Donald Christie

Riding your motorcycle during cold wet weather requires planning, foresight and the right gear. Clothing that seems fine when you are driving your car or walking down the street in the rain probably wont cut it at 70 miles an hour on your motorcycle. It takes the right gear to keep you warm under these extreme conditions. Buy gear designed for motorcycling. There is a difference. Women riders have had a tough time finding gear made for them at an affordable price until fairly recently. Happily myself and other vendors are offering affordable quality gear tailored for women.

DRESS IN LAYERS
COVER ALL SKIN
BLOCK THE WIND
STAY DRY
KEEP YOUR HEAD WARM
THE LAYERS

Insulating Layer: The insulating layer creates dead air space between the layers of clothing, trapping warm body air and keeping it around the body. Look for outerwear that is warm, water-resistant and well insulated with a synthetic fiber such as Thinsulate Insulation.

Outer Shell: This layer protects against wind and rain. This is probably the most important layer.

Outerwear Machine-washable jackets retain their waterproofing better than those that require dry-cleaning. Jackets with sealed seams also prevent water from getting in. If you wear a non-leather jacket get one designed for motorcycling. That stylish $300 jacket you bought at the department store probably won't work as well as a $100 jacket you buy from me because it's not designed for motorcycling. Leather is a great wind stopper. A well made leather jacket designed for motorcycling will last for years, keep you comfortable and protect you in a skid.

Look for outerwear containing Thinsulate and similar Insulation, it provides about 1 ½ times the warmth of down and nearly twice the warmth of other high-loft insulators when equal thicknesses are compared. Look for features such as cuffs that close tightly to keep out cold air and snow, zippers with large nylon teeth, and storm flaps over the zippers and double breasted chest openings to block wind and water. Cuffs, pockets and chest closures with multiple closure systems such as zippers and snaps or zippers ,velcro and snaps tend to stop more wind.

Zip out liners are very handy. You can remove your liner when it is warm in the afternoon, store it in your saddlebag and put it back in when the temperature dips.

Add leather or string ties to zippers etc so you can open and close them with your gloves on.

Your neck Nehru or Euro style collars on jackets tend to cover the neck better. A turtle neck sweater will help some. In really cold weather a balaclava or a leather riding mask will make a big difference. Remember to cover your neck! By the time you have traveled a half a mile in cold weather you will know if you forgot to cover that adam's apple!

Legs Protect your legs from the wind. There are a variety of choices for protecting your legs. Chaps, Leather pants and Textile pants. I sell a variety of these items in various price ranges. All of my items are designed for motorcycling. Once again wear layers; thermal underwear and lined pants or chaps to block the wind. When it gets cold a pair of Levis and long johns won't do it!

Footwear Wet feet become cold and numb quickly, keep your feet dry by wearing appropriate boots. When your feet become wet (through sweating or immersion) you need to put on dry, fresh socks. Insulated boots help. Wear socks made of synthetic fibers like polyester and polypropylene. Make sure your boots are loose enough to comfortably wear thick socks. Avoid steel toe boots. A pair of cold feet will ruin an otherwise great ride!

Headgear You loose most of your heat through your head and neck! Wear a full face helmet with face shield for optimum comfort. Leather masks cover the neck and lower face. Balaclavas cover the neck, face and insulate your head.

Gloves Waterproof gloves lined with synthetic insulation such as Thinsulate insulation are effective insulators, keep your hands covered at all times. The savvy rider has several pairs of gloves designed for various riding conditions: Fingerless gloves for warm summer riding. This cuts down on vibration, reduces calluses and offers some protection in a skid. Zip Cuff Gauntlet gloves The next choice is usually flexible gloves with thin lining that offer wind protection and a gauntlet cuff to keep wind from blowing up the jacket sleeves. I carry a pair all the time in my saddlebag along with a pair of cotton liners to add when it gets cold. They are handy even on cool summer nights.For really cold weather I wear a pair of thick gauntlet motorcycling / ski gloves with thick insulate lining. Gauntlet cuff gloves are very important. They fit over the jacket sleeve and keep ice cold air from blowing up to your arm pits at 70 miles an hour!

Mittens keep hands warmer than gloves but offer less dexterity. They are a definite no-no for riders or passengers. You can't feel the controls and the passenger can't hold on!

Rain Gear

Keep a set of nylon rain gear in your saddlebag for each person on the bike. They don't weigh much but they are a real life saver when the rain or sleet starts coming down.

Just my opinion on heated clothes. They work great when they work! I used to wear a heated vest and heated socks. I stayed warm and toasty even in really cold weather. One day in January one of my heated socks quit working, I didn't realize it. I froze a couple of toes and darn near lost them. That was enough for me!

A few general observations:

Avoid real tight clothing. You loose that insulating warm air layer when you wear a jacket, pants or boots that are too tight.

Dress for comfort and protection. Wearing your beany and a denim jacket when the chill factor dips below 30 only impresses dummies. Surprisingly this occurs at about 45 degrees F at 70 mph!

Bring gear for the worst weather you may run into. You probably will. Those nice 70 degree October days sometimes turn into a rainy 35 degree ride home.

WIND CHILL

The cooling effect of wind at 70 mph is astounding. Plan carefully before you leave. At about 10 degrees fahrenheit you are entering very dangerous territory. Wind chill is not something to fool with:

WIND CHILL @ 70 MPH

DEGREES F-> 50 40 30 20 10 0 -10

WIND CHILL 38 24 9 -6 -20 -35 -49

HYPOTHERMIA

1. Hypothermia is a decrease in the core body temperature to a level at which normal muscular and cerebral functions are impaired." Hypothermia can creep up on you and seriously reduce your thinking abilities and
coordination.

2. Conditions Leading to Hypothermia

Cold temperatures Improper clothing and equipment, Wetness, Fatigue, exhaustion, Dehydration, Poor food intake, Alcohol intake - causes vasodilation leading to increased heat loss

3. Temperature ranges at which hypothermia can occur on your motorcycle:

32 DEGREES Below freezing ALWAYS DANGEROUS WITHOUT PROPER GEAR

40 degrees - ENTERING DANGER ZONE: PROPER GEAR NEEDED IF RIDING MORE

THAN A FEW MINUTES

60 degrees - CAUTION! COVER EXPOSED SKIN ESPECIALLY IF IT IS RAINING.

4. WHAT TO LOOK FOR; SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

a. Watch for stumbles, mumbles and fumbles which show changes in motor coordination and levels of consciousness. Having troubles with controls, have to consciously think about where the brakes are etc. STOP AND GET WARM. DON'T DRINK ALCOHOL, THAT REDUCES BLOOD FLOW AND MAKES IT WORSE. A WARM DRINK WITH SUGAR HELPS.

b. Mild Hypothermia - core temperature 98.6 - 96 degrees F

AT THIS POINT YOU CAN MAKE DANGEROUS MISTAKES; FORGET TO PUT ON THE BRAKES, OVER OR UNDERSTEER A CURVE. ( ONE TIME I STOPPED FOR A RED LIGHT AND FORGOT TO TAKE MY FEET OFF THE PEGS!) Shivering - not under voluntary control Can't do complex motor functions, can still walk & talk Vasoconstriction to periphery

c. Moderate Hypothermia - core temperature 95 - 93 degrees F

Dazed consciousness Loss of fine motor coordination - particularly in hands - can't zip up your jacket, due to restricted blood flow to the hands.Slurred speech Violent shivering Irrational behavior - Paradoxical Undressing - person starts to take off clothing, unaware s/he is cold MANY SYMPTOMS LIKE BEING STONED. A person in this condition needs help. Immediately get them indoors. They may not be able to make good decisions for themselves. If you or someone riding with you reaches this point reassess your plans; Make frequent stops to warm up, get a room for the night or park the bike and get better gear. You are taking a serious risk!

d. Severe Hypothermia - core temperature 92 - 86 degrees and below

(immediately life threatening) You won't have any trouble noticing this stage. The person falls down, curls into a fetal position appears to die! Shivering occurs in waves, violent then pause, pauses get longer until shivering finally ceases - because the heat output from burning glycogen in the muscles is not sufficient to counteract the continually dropping core temperature, the body stops shivering to conserve glucose. Person falls to the ground, can't walk, curls up into a fetal position to conserve heat. Muscle rigidity develops - because peripheral blood flow is reduced and due to lactic acid and CO2 buildup in the muscles. Skin is pale Pupils dilate Pulse rate decreases at 90 degrees the body tries to move into hibernation, shutting down all peripheral blood flow and reducing breathing rate and heart rate. At 86 degrees the body is in a state of "metabolic icebox." The person looks dead but is still alive.

Make sure your passenger is dressed right before you leave. They may not know how to dress. It's up to you to help them make the right choice. And guess who is going to listen to them nag to wear your nice warm jacket on the way home if they don't?

Keep these guidelines in mind the next time you venture out on that motorcycle in cold weather.

You don't have to park that bike when fall rolls around. Just dress right and enjoy!

Breathable Layer: This is the layer that comes in contact with the skin. It should allow body moisture to escape and evaporate more quickly, which keeps the skin dry and comfortable. Use thermal underwear made of synthetic fibers like polyester and polypropylene to wick moisture away from the skin. Avoid natural fibers such as cotton, they tend to hold moisture close to the skin and dry very slowly.

Looking for some great deals on motorcycle gear and a set of motorcycle saddlebags to carry it in?
Check out my store: http://donscycleware.com

I love motorcycles

Riding motorcycles has always been an important part of my life. I have found that having the right gear goes a long way toward making the hobby enjoyable. I have ridden thousands of miles in all types of weather and enjoy sharing what I know with other riders. I do my best to find affordable gear that does the job and passing on the deals to my brothers and sisters who share my love of riding. I have met some great people both on-line and in person since we opened our on line business in 2003. If you ever have a question just drop me an email.

Ride Safe!

Don

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Donald_Christie
http://EzineArticles.com/?Dress-For-Cold-Weather-Motorcycle-Riding&id=1625844

Heated Motorcycle Gear

Heated Motorcycle Gear
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Nick_Carr]Nick Carr

Winter is here folks, but that doesn't mean we can't keep riding. How can we stave off
the bone chilling wind and cold? Heated gear, of course!

Heated gear keeps various parts of your body warm while riding in winter temperatures, so just say no to Hypothermia! I'm a year round rider, and though I've since moved to Austin, Texas where winter riding is pretty tolerable, I used to live in Baltimore, Maryland where winter riding involved below freezing temps for extended periods of time and a good bit of that white stuff. Heated gear is a wonderful thing - trust me on this. I used to own a heated vest and gloves.

Heated gear is just that; motorcycle clothing and accessories that use a heating element to create warmth.

A few Heated Gear Manufacturers:

Widder
Warm & Safe
WarmGear
Gerbing

Many Motorcycle companies also offer their own versions (Harley Davidson and BMW immediately come to mind), which are usually produced by premium manufacturers. Of course that usually means all the quality at twice the price, but that sort of thing is up the individual customer.

How Does Heated Motorcycle Gear Work?

Most Heated gear uses anywhere from 15 to 100 watts depending on the brand and the amount of gear you use while riding.

You have two types of power output really. You can power it from your motorcycle battery, or you can run it on self contained, rechargeable batteries placed or sewn directly into the article of clothing. That's not to say they are interchangeable so see what kind of power supply it requires before you buy it!

I owned the plug in type that ran on my motorcycle's 12 volt battery. It provided unlimited riding hours. The drawback is that this means it ONLY works when riding. Walk away from the bike and you walk away from the heat.

The self contained style has a lithium battery (usually 7.4 volt) supply and lasts an average of 4 to 10 hours depending on the heat setting. When the battery is dead you have to plug in to the battery charger and 4 hours later; presto! The self contained provides a little more flexibility and warmth when you are away from the motorcycle.

All of the clothes work with a temp. controller that you can manually set to the desired temp. If you use several pieces of heated gear, they usually connect together so that one control works them all, thus preventing you from looking like a science fiction robot reject.

Heated Gear Clothing Choices:

jacket liners
jackets
vest liners
arm chaps
glove liners
gloves
pants liners
socks.

Prices run from $70 to $300 depending on what heated gear you purchase.

Tips for Wear

Heated gear is worn as close to your body as you can without actually touching your skin. For this reason, I preferred the vest liner and glove liner to the actual jacket and glove option. Also, I always wore leathers as my outer layer for both wind and crash protection.

Always remember that wind chill is as much your enemy as actual temperature. The thermometer doesn't tell the whole story, so dress warm. Also, avoid riding for extended lengths of time in the cold as you run the risk of lowering your core temp too much or getting dehydrated - a thing you might not expect to happen in the cold.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Nick_Carr
http://EzineArticles.com/?Heated-Motorcycle-Gear&id=1596727

Textile Motorcycle Jackets for safety & more

Textile Motorcycle Jackets
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Dona_Rosa]Dona Rosa

Every year thousands of people lose their lives in motorcycle accidents while hundreds are severely injured. The good news is that research has shown that wearing textile motorcycle jackets can considerably reduce the severity of injuries. That is why these jackets are considered by many to be a necessity for all motorbike riders.

Types of Textile Jackets

Textile motorcycle jackets are available in market according to the type of motorbike riding like racing, cruiser, and others. Today hundreds of companies manufacture, different styles and sizes of motorcycle jackets, as the jackets are very popular among the motorcyclists as they are of excellent quality.

Companies making these textile motorcycle jackets explicitly focus on comfort and safety. Some companies also offer customized jackets.

Textile motorcycle jackets currently available are comfortable, as they are lightweight. You can breathe well wearing these jackets. Although this apparel may not protect drivers as much as leather jackets, nevertheless they considerably reduce the stress or impact. Today many professional racers also use textile material under the arms and groin. So in short, if you are a regular street rider then you should own a textile motorcycle jacket.

Benefits of Using Motorcycle Jackets

If you go to the market, you will definitely find a textile motorcycle jacket that suits you. These jackets provide a number of benefits. They are as follows:

- These jackets are very easy to wash and clean
- They offer more breath ability as compared to leather
- They are waterproof and help you in keeping dry
- These jackets have reflective material at strategic spots so that you are more visible to others
- They are durable and made of abrasion resistant fabric
- Most of these jackets have resin coating for water and oil repellency
- Repellency renewed easily by washing the jacket
- Reflective inserts for more visibility
- Removable composite protectors that are at elbows and shoulders
- Adjustable sides and neck to provide a great fit.
- Washable and no ironing required, hence you can enjoy wearing the jacket everyday

As these jackets are waterproof, you remain comfortable and dry while driving. As off road riding gets hotter than on road riding, a jacket lets you breathe comfortably would be a welcome treat. This advantage also applies when you riding your bike in heavy showers. Therefore, to make your ride more enjoyable you can own a comfortable textile motorcycle jacket.

Jackets - as a Protective Wear

As a motorcycle crash is unpredictable, it is essential that you wear protective gear such as specially made textile motorcycle jacket every time you are on your bike. As these textile wears makes your breathing easy, you would be extremely comfortable wearing them. Some of these jackets also have steel shoulder protection; of course, it is just a matter of extra protection.

Textile motorcycle jackets are not costly and are readily available online. You can save your hard-earned money by purchasing it through internet. There are different motorcycle textiles available in the market and each piece has its own benefit. Some of these textiles are thoroughly tested and have protective values. So besides giving relief during summer, they also provide maximum protection, hence form a very important part of protective gear.

For more info, visit: Rocky Top Leather and see what fine goods they have there like textile motorcycle jackets.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dona_Rosa
http://EzineArticles.com/?Textile-Motorcycle-Jackets&id=1590580