• Starting to buy some bits with view to getting test.

    I have no idea what I'm doing, just been reading reviews so I'm posting up here in case anyone sees any issues or has any suggestions. I'm buying for local fairweather leisure riding at the moment till in get my skill level up.

    Shoei NXS lid
    Alpinestars SMX6 boots
    Alpinestars GP plus r v2 jacket
    Haven't decided on trousers, something that zips into the jacket.
    Haven't decided on what to wear underneath, Merino t shirt?

    I'm pretty set on a Ninja 400 now for my first bike pending a test ride.

  • You have to start somewhere, seems like a reasonable list. If I were starting again I'd probably get a Knox shirt, then you can put any leather or textile on top or at a push wear it on it's own.

    Matching zips on trousers and jacket can be tricky. Unless I'm riding all day everyday I don't usually worry about having them connect. Like the jacket, having under armour means you can have some safety even if you wear normal jeans.

    Alpinestars boots are pretty decent. Again I have a couple of pairs but my best, most long lasting, warmest, coolest, comfy boots are by Daytona. They will resole them for reasonable money and if you drag your foot a little here and there boots end up needing resoling.

    Shoei are great, I have 2 but sometimes other makes suit your head shape better, so I would try Arai, Roof, Shuberth and there are some newer makes that come recommended.

    Merino base layer is a good shout. Jumper for the evening.

  • As up-thread, I find myself somewhat a collector of jackets. That’s meant I’ve been happier with the Acerbis X-Air comp suit, and then whatever bike jacket on top. However, normally on green lanes while it’s cold I wear a Richa jacket with armour in place.

    Whatever kit you buy, I can more or less guarantee you’ll be buying different kit after a few months of riding, and realising what feels good/bad.

  • Buff is a must IMO.
    Get a light one for the summer and a thermal one for the winter.
    Regardless of weather, it can get stinging on the neck if there are any gaps.

    Regarding lid, pinlock is a revelation, internal sunvisor is a divisive thing, but I love it (I wear glasses all the time) ideal when the weather is changeable.
    I do not know if either of these are applicable to the lid you are suggesting.
    Depending on how much riding you plan to do, but a spare can be a good thing if you can afford it and store it.
    I used to commute 52 weeks a year, torrential rain can get everything soaked, a spare lid for tomorrows commute did me a favour. (took me a year or so to buy the 2nd)
    HJC IS-17, 5 star sharp rating (the gov standard for crash helmet ratings) Think it cost £100 at the excel bike show a few years back
    https://sharp.dft.gov.uk/

  • No real advice from me, other than researching any new hobby can feel like an impossible task with the sheer amount of conflicting views online... but rest assured when the sun is shining there is no better feeling then whizzing around on your bike. Clothing-wise my only advice would be don't scrimp if you think it's something you'll be doing for years to come. I still own clothing from 5 bikes ago. Also you don't have to spend lots of money, I've bought quality used stuff and it's still doing great. Helmets are slightly different here but Shoei lids are top-notch although slightly personal as mentioned fit-wise.

  • Nxr is a great lid. I love mine. Vut go to a shop and try a bunch on. Hopefully a good shop that can help. It should feel snug but not pushing on your temples. You might want to try different brands

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