Author Topic: Are Racing Suits Any Good For Everyday Riding? (Read 4113 times)

wantahertzdonut · « **on:** March 28, 2007, 01:52:05 PM »

I have a line on a very lightly used Teknic Speedstar 1-piece leather suit for $200. Since I'm in need of a new jacket and pants I'm considering this mostly for the price. The suit has a removable and washable liner.

What I'd like to know is, can a suit like this be realistic for everyday riding? I've never worn one of these so I don't know what to expect. Are they comfortable? Are they disgustingly hot? Are they easy to take on and off?

85% of my miles are going to and from work during the summer. I don't have a dress code here either so messing up my clothes is not an issue.

txbanditrydr · « **Reply #1 on:** March 28, 2007, 03:40:17 PM »

Without a doubt the leather suit will offer more protection, which can be a very good thing. I just scored a 2-piece Technic suit myself but wear it more like a one piece. I am just now finding out the temperature limits of comfort and 80 degrees is about the max I'd want to sit still in one. If you are constantly moving I'd think 85 or so would still be okay.

For an everyday "short" (less than 50 miles) ride I don't think it'd be worth the trouble of putting it on - assuming you have to take of your shoes/boots to do so. Even so, I'd pick it up at that price just to have should you decide to do a track day or spirited weekend ride.

They sure do look awesome though.

aussiebandit · « **Reply #2 on:** March 29, 2007, 07:26:49 AM »

Quote from: "txbanditrydr"

Without a doubt the leather suit will offer more protection, which can be a very good thing. I just scored a 2-piece Technic suit myself but wear it more like a one piece. I am just now finding out the temperature limits of comfort and 80 degrees is about the max I'd want to sit still in one. If you are constantly moving I'd think 85 or so would still be okay.

For an everyday "short" (less than 50 miles) ride I don't think it'd be worth the trouble of putting it on - assuming you have to take of your shoes/boots to do so. Even so, I'd pick it up at that price just to have should you decide to do a track day or spirited weekend ride.

They sure do look awesome though.

They do look awesome, providing your not 5'10" (178cm) and weigh around 230 lbs (105kg).

The other problem with one piece suits arises when you need to 'quickly' go to the toilet.

wantahertzdonut · « **Reply #3 on:** March 29, 2007, 04:53:13 PM »

Quote from: "aussiebandit"

The other problem with one piece suits arises when you need to 'quickly' go to the toilet.

haha, never thought about that one!

wantahertzdonut · « **Reply #4 on:** April 03, 2007, 02:31:42 PM »

Well I bought a Frank Thomas suit, worn once (I'd smell it if it were worn more than that), $225. Fits nice, and I can't wait to try it out. The weather has been nice but my bike has been in the shop for nearly 2 weeks now for a valve adjustment. I guess it's more justification that I'm still better off doing my own work!