View Full Version : Leather pants. Advice, recommendations?
Big Dog
11th May 2014, 23:15
I am in need of new pants, my current / old pants are in mighty need of replacement. Leaky, faded, busted zip, frayed velcro and generally over 10 years old.
Currently I am leaning toward replacing them with some leather touring pants and getting separate wet weather gear instead of buying yet another round of textile gear.
Among other reasons no one seems to import larger sizes.
Front runners do far are
"1tonne ballistic"
http://www.1tonne.co.nz/index.php?page=listingDetails&prodid=32&sco=&categoryid=101
And "Armour-tech v-pilot"
http://www.cycletreads.co.nz/products/1129-armour_tech_mens_leather_pants/1130-armour_tech_v_pilot_trouserspa.aspx
Anyone have previous experience with either of these?
Or able to recommend a good equivalent in a similar price range?
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
awayatc
12th May 2014, 07:13
Bought leather bibs on trade me. Excelent weather protection. Had them altered to fit. Still very cheap. At moment large fellow selling in motorcycle clothing on trademe leather bibs and jacket for $50 listed under pants.
worth a look.?
Erelyes
12th May 2014, 08:29
Front runners do far are
"1tonne ballistic"
http://www.1tonne.co.nz/index.php?page=listingDetails&prodid=32&sco=&categoryid=101
And "Armour-tech v-pilot"
http://www.cycletreads.co.nz/products/1129-armour_tech_mens_leather_pants/1130-armour_tech_v_pilot_trouserspa.aspx
Unless you can find a 2nd hand pair of A*, Ikon, Dainese, Rev'it etc that is young enough to have CE armour - I would definitely go with the 1 tonnes.
Armour-tech are just padded knees = meh.
p.dath
12th May 2014, 10:34
I am in need of new pants, my current / old pants are in mighty need of replacement. Leaky, faded, busted zip, frayed velcro and generally over 10 years old.
Currently I am leaning toward replacing them with some leather touring pants and getting separate wet weather gear instead of buying yet another round of textile gear.
Among other reasons no one seems to import larger sizes.
Front runners do far are
"1tonne ballistic"
http://www.1tonne.co.nz/index.php?page=listingDetails&prodid=32&sco=&categoryid=101
And "Armour-tech v-pilot"
http://www.cycletreads.co.nz/products/1129-armour_tech_mens_leather_pants/1130-armour_tech_v_pilot_trouserspa.aspx
Anyone have previous experience with either of these?
Or able to recommend a good equivalent in a similar price range?
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
I've always found the 1Tonne gear excellent. I use a separate Rain Suit over my leathers when it is really bad. I have the cheaper nylon style Rain Suit - which is horrible to ride in but keeps you completely dry. I find them horrible to ride in because nylon is very slippery. You just can't stick to your bike in it, so you tend to slide around on the bike. So I end up going much slower again as a result. However I probably only use it 2 or 3 times a year, so not worth getting a better Rain Suit made out of better material.
HenryDorsetCase
12th May 2014, 11:57
I find these to be very good.
Big Dog
12th May 2014, 13:00
Bought leather bibs on trade me. Excelent weather protection. Had them altered to fit. Still very cheap. At moment large fellow selling in motorcycle clothing on trademe leather bibs and jacket for $50 listed under pants.
worth a look.?
I feel so flattered.
If you mean these, chances are they are too small. http://www.trademe.co.nz/728128079
Vendor says 6' 103 kgs. 4" height difference is probably no significant, the extra 40 kegs might be. If I ever got back to 103 my doc would probably check me in to rehab.
This is a major contributor to move back to leather. Textiles are normally not available in large enough sizes. Unless you want to spend a over $500 on pants. In my experience $5-600 pants are not 2x better than. $2-300 pants.
Leather pants (except sports pants) generally go up to a 46 or 48 inch waist.
Depending on cut I will need 42-44 or a 44-46 inch waist. Normally a 4xl or 5xl.
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
Big Dog
12th May 2014, 13:03
I've always found the 1Tonne gear excellent. I use a separate Rain Suit over my leathers when it is really bad. I have the cheaper nylon style Rain Suit - which is horrible to ride in but keeps you completely dry. I find them horrible to ride in because nylon is very slippery. You just can't stick to your bike in it, so you tend to slide around on the bike. So I end up going much slower again as a result. However I probably only use it 2 or 3 times a year, so not worth getting a better Rain Suit made out of better material.
Thanks P.Dath. Have you had a few bits of their gear?
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
Big Dog
12th May 2014, 13:05
Unless you can find a 2nd hand pair of A*, Ikon, Dainese, Rev'it etc that is young enough to have CE armour - I would definitely go with the 1 tonnes.
Armour-tech are just padded knees = meh.
Size is normally issue with second hand. I generally have to buy a little 2 big and get taken in. Big gear is not often for sale. I guess they don't make as many cows with skins big enough to cover my ample cheeks. Lol.
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
Big Dog
12th May 2014, 13:06
I find these to be very good.
Jeez, a man buys a Honda...
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
p.dath
12th May 2014, 13:55
Thanks P.Dath. Have you had a few bits of their gear?
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
Probably half a dozen bits. Textiles and leather.
slofox
12th May 2014, 13:55
I find these to be very good.
I thought those were only available to Harley owners.
Hitcher
12th May 2014, 15:50
I've never been a fan of leather trousers. Either too cold or too hot. Or something else.
Big Dog
12th May 2014, 16:31
I've never been a fan of leather trousers. Either too cold or too hot. Or something else.
I used to have a set of leather bibs I could not fault for 40 mins plus riding, huge pain in the arse for shorter trips, heavy, awkward, cold till they warm up, hot if not enough airflow.
These days I have draggins for shorter lower speed stuff. Wish I had never sold my bibs. Mind you I probably would not fit now. Only sold them because I was sans bike. I always new I'd come back eventually but needed the cash.
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
MVnut
12th May 2014, 19:08
not a fan of the 1 tonne or any other cheap brands, spend the money and buy yourself some good pants. The cheap stuff is cheap for a reason
nzspokes
12th May 2014, 20:23
Have been through the cheap gear thing. Not worth it in the long run. So I give 2 options.
1, Go the the Army Surplus place in Onehunga. There FB page says they have bought a lot of leather used gear of recent times so they should be well stocked.
2, Go to Motomail and see what they have on sale. I find they have stuff not on the website. I got some Revit pants (old model) for well under half price.
p.dath
13th May 2014, 08:44
not a fan of the 1 tonne or any other cheap brands, spend the money and buy yourself some good pants. The cheap stuff is cheap for a reason
I've used 1Tonne a lot and had it quite a while. Have come off on the track. All I can say is I have had no issues and it has been durable. What more could you want.
Big Dog
13th May 2014, 12:36
When I worked in gear sales I was constantly amazed by the number of people who came through with very expensive bits of kit that I would consider sub standard.
Mo' money does not equal better quality. Unfortunately better quality does often equal mo' money.
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
Erelyes
13th May 2014, 20:02
Mo' money = gamble
Cheap = gamble
And on that bombshell...
GrayWolf
13th May 2014, 21:21
I've used 1Tonne a lot and had it quite a while. Have come off on the track. All I can say is I have had no issues and it has been durable. What more could you want.
While I can certainly agree that 1Tonne has some good quality gear, I very recently purchased a blackhawk jacket, and waiting for a pair of bib n brace pants.
Compared to some of the other online leather jackets available it certainly is better quality.
What I was/am a bit surprised about is, considering it is a 'race suit jacket' the amount of surface/visible stitching (seams) I can see. I agree that there will be 'hidden seams' these are the preferable type for ensuring integrity of joins, but I must admit I would have expect ALL seams to be 'double' hidden seams in this type of gear. I will accept that in most cases that jacket would remain intact, but am a bit surprised on this.
Otherwise, the jacket seems a definite 'cut above' a similar product from another 'online supplier'.
Big Dog
16th May 2014, 00:34
Looks like I might be best to go 1tonne.
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
p.dath
16th May 2014, 08:51
Looks like I might be best to go 1tonne.
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
You wont regret it. What I have done in the past when I have been unsure about fit is to send them my measurements, and let them recommend the best size.
Big Dog
20th May 2014, 02:16
I am definitely the proverbial old woman. Still have not bought.
I tried to buy the ballistic pants from 1tonne but I dithered and the price went up before I could place an order.
The extra $15 doesn't sound like much bit it now means that the terminator pants are only $5 more.
So much more pants for the same approximate price.
And therein lies my current dilemma.
Option a: order the ballistics because they will be easier to live with on a daily basis. E.g fitting pants on underneath / rain trousers over top etc.
Option b: get the terminators because they are the ones I'd rather crash in and just wear shorts year round at work.
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
p.dath
20th May 2014, 07:16
I am definitely the proverbial old woman. Still have not bought.
I tried to buy the ballistic pants from 1tonne but I dithered and the price went up before I could place an order.
The extra $15 doesn't sound like much bit it now means that the terminator pants are only $5 more.
So much more pants for the same approximate price.
And therein lies my current dilemma.
Option a: order the ballistics because they will be easier to live with on a daily basis. E.g fitting pants on underneath / rain trousers over top etc.
Option b: get the terminators because they are the ones I'd rather crash in and just wear shorts year round at work.
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
(b) and leave an extra pair of pants at work, but it is all a matter of personal preference.
nzspokes
20th May 2014, 08:22
Go to Motomail and get something decent.
p.dath
20th May 2014, 08:26
Go to Motomail and get something decent.
He's already looking at something decent. He doesn't want decent and expensive.
nzspokes
20th May 2014, 08:30
He's already looking at something decent. He doesn't want decent and expensive.
Im a cheap ass. I buy on sale then haggle. That way when sliding on my ass I know the gear will hold. Don't buy gear that you cant look at first.
Wear gear for the slide, not for the ride.
p.dath
20th May 2014, 11:56
Im a cheap ass. I buy on sale then haggle. That way when sliding on my ass I know the gear will hold. Don't buy gear that you cant look at first.
Wear gear for the slide, not for the ride.
As I've said I own half a dozen bits of their gear and it has always been great. It's a well known and respected NZ brand.
nzspokes
20th May 2014, 12:27
As I've said I own half a dozen bits of their gear and it has always been great. It's a well known and respected NZ brand.
Where is it made?
GrayWolf
20th May 2014, 12:41
I am definitely the proverbial old woman. Still have not bought.
I tried to buy the ballistic pants from 1tonne but I dithered and the price went up before I could place an order.
The extra $15 doesn't sound like much bit it now means that the terminator pants are only $5 more.
So much more pants for the same approximate price.
And therein lies my current dilemma.
Option a: order the ballistics because they will be easier to live with on a daily basis. E.g fitting pants on underneath / rain trousers over top etc.
Option b: get the terminators because they are the ones I'd rather crash in and just wear shorts year round at work.
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
Another thing to always consider is how well the pants are secured.. Modern idea is popper studs and velcro will be secure..... YEAH?
Look at it this way, the friction load (drag) your bodyweight is going to place on ANY type of securing fastener.... Old fashioned or not, the old school belt loops, button waist, good quality zip is going to far out perform velcro and poppers...
The bib n brace, not only have over the shoulder straps, the material covers all your lower back, and provides extra protection in the event of a face first....
The 'price/quality of the terminator pants 'MAY' be better.... but would the overall protection outperform the bib n brace!!?
Ive got a pair of them on back order... once I have them and sure they satisfy my 'requirements', I'll be ordering a 2nd, and maybe 3rd set.
Big Dog
20th May 2014, 13:04
Another thing to always consider is how well the pants are secured.. Modern idea is popper studs and velcro will be secure..... YEAH?
Look at it this way, the friction load (drag) your bodyweight is going to place on ANY type of securing fastener.... Old fashioned or not, the old school belt loops, button waist, good quality zip is going to far out perform velcro and poppers...
The bib n brace, not only have over the shoulder straps, the material covers all your lower back, and provides extra protection in the event of a face first....
The 'price/quality of the terminator pants 'MAY' be better.... but would the overall protection outperform the bib n brace!!?
Ive got a pair of them on back order... once I have them and sure they satisfy my 'requirements', I'll be ordering a 2nd, and maybe 3rd set.
I definitely miss my bibs. Same basic design but without the hard knee armour. Fucked the knees first ride. Best $360 I ever spent. Cost me $30 to get new knees put in in thicker leather. Only reason I can still walk today.
Budget just cannot stretch that far without sacrificing something else. Like a new helmet to replace my old one that needs retiring. When better days return I'll probably look at a bib set for longer / touring duties.
Whichever I choose I will probably end up getting a 'proper' buckle added in a couple of months. All the ones I have seen with a buckle don't have armour, have no arse or have massive fabric panels.
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
Big Dog
20th May 2014, 13:13
Im a cheap ass. I buy on sale then haggle. That way when sliding on my ass I know the gear will hold. Don't buy gear that you cant look at first.
Wear gear for the slide, not for the ride.
Last couple of trips to Motomail they tell me I can't have leather except in Berik. My budget doesn't stretch that far and there is less leather in the units coverage wise.
A to see it in person? No one will order in for me to try unless I give them cash up front because of my size. Go 6 Auckland stores I shall not shame because I understand why.
Quality wise the only doubt I have is the elastic in the back of the calves on the terminators.
The units I have seen in person have all been high quality leather. Higher than some fancy brands but also very heavy duty. Unlike many fancy brands.
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
Big Dog
20th May 2014, 13:14
As I've said I own half a dozen bits of their gear and it has always been great. It's a well known and respected NZ brand.
Do you happen to have either of the units I am looking at?
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
p.dath
20th May 2014, 14:27
Where is it made?
China I believe, like most other motorcycle apparel.
Big Dog
20th May 2014, 14:44
China I believe, like most other motorcycle apparel.
Almost all brands have their kit made in lowest tender factories in Asia. Sometimes the fancy brands are exactly the same kit except for the logos, and maybe the colour of the stitching. Often gear for one brand will be sourced from many unrelated factories. Most factories supply more than one brand.
Much the same as a Westinghouse fridge may have been manufactured in the same factory and with the same part numbers as a Simpson. Just different handles and badges. One manufacturer sells their designs or brands to anyone paying. Or sometimes one designer sells his design to many factories.
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
skinman
20th May 2014, 18:55
it is possible to go & see 1 Tonne in person if you make prior arrangements. It is a nice ride too.
Big Dog
20th May 2014, 20:39
it is possible to go & see 1 Tonne in person if you make prior arrangements. It is a nice ride too.
A long one, but a good one.
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
1tonne
21st May 2014, 08:33
Our motorcycle jackets, pants, boots and race suits are all made in Pakistan. NOT CHINA. They are made to very high standards. I have even had people from other motor shops come and purchase our race suits over there own suits that they sell. We have also had people from the NZ Police crash investigation unit come and purchase our gear for personal use. These people would only purchase quality as they see what can happen if they don't.
Erelyes
21st May 2014, 08:47
Another thing to always consider is how well the pants are secured.. Modern idea is popper studs and velcro will be secure..... YEAH?
Fair point. I haven't seen too many that are just poppers and velcro though, they are usually that for the 'flap' and then have a zipper underneath. A locking zipper always helps too. On which note...
We have also had people from the NZ Police crash investigation unit come and purchase our gear for personal use. These people would only purchase quality as they see what can happen if they don't.
:niceone: Got a question regarding the zips on your leather pants/jackets though. Do you use the locking type zippers on any of your gear? They are the type where once the 'puller' is folded back over, the zip can't be undone. (Example (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RT1ifRY4mIc))
GrayWolf
21st May 2014, 10:33
Fair point. I haven't seen too many that are just poppers and velcro though, they are usually that for the 'flap' and then have a zipper underneath. A locking zipper always helps too. On which note...
:niceone: Got a question regarding the zips on your leather pants/jackets though. Do you use the locking type zippers on any of your gear? They are the type where once the 'puller' is folded back over, the zip can't be undone. (Example (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RT1ifRY4mIc))
Good point Erelyes,
I should have been more 'exact' :niceone: ..
yes most have a zipper for the 'fly flap' but the waistband securing IS popper/velcro and I can safely say the majority of the pants in the shops do NOT have high quality 'locking' zippers... Once the 'waistband' becomes undone? There is a high risk of the pants sliding down your arse if you slide headfirst or roll, which CAN happen.
It's cost saving and fashion, rather than going the full way for security and safety...... coz the public expect 'value for money'......:nono:
Big Dog
21st May 2014, 10:35
Our motorcycle jackets, pants, boots and race suits are all made in Pakistan. NOT CHINA. They are made to very high standards. I have even had people from other motor shops come and purchase our race suits over there own suits that they sell. We have also had people from the NZ Police crash investigation unit come and purchase our gear for personal use. These people would only purchase quality as they see what can happen if they don't.
Given you are in the thread I feel it is fair to ask: of the two pair I am currently agonising over which would you choose for yourself if you were in my situation? Ballistics or terminator? And why?
Situation:
Limited budget due to 2 under 2 and still recovering from first home purchase, so if I get it wrong I can't afford to replace for about 2 years.
Majority of riding 24-26,000 km per year are commuting, about 20,000 will be on the motorway.
Another 5-6000 pleasure riding.
On a mix of bikes but mostly a CB1300.
More concerned about safety than cosmetics.
As I can't afford to lose my license living 56km from work 99.999% of riding sensible (and below thresholds for speeding offences) even if some corners get a good serve.
Current plan is to replace ill fitting textile gear with leather that can be re tailored if necessary and a set I overs.
If I get it right, I will be coming back as and when I have budget for a jacket gloves and boots.
I currently have everything but it was all purchased back when I worked in gear sales and now most of it needs retiring. Retiring is something I hate about textiles. Even when they still look whole they can be well useless from wear and tear / uv.
I used to advocate them heavily when I was only travelling 16km to work. But now I want something more durable.
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
Big Dog
21st May 2014, 10:37
Good point Erelyes,
I should have been more 'exact' :niceone: ..
yes most have a zipper for the 'fly flap' but the waistband securing IS popper/velcro and I can safely say the majority of the pants in the shops do NOT have high quality 'locking' zippers... Once the 'waistband' becomes undone? There is a high risk of the pants sliding down your arse if you slide headfirst or roll, which CAN happen.
It's cost saving and fashion, rather than going the full way for security and safety...... coz the public expect 'value for money'......:nono:
Hence popularity of draggins. I still wear mine for short hops. I feel mighty exposed in tighter 100km corners though.
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
GrayWolf
21st May 2014, 21:39
Hence popularity of draggins. I still wear mine for short hops. I feel mighty exposed in tighter 100km corners though.
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
Well the 1Tonne bib n brace pants arrived today.
First impression. Hefty, good leather, good fit, just about exact for size selected.
Obviously due to the type of pants there are a lot of seams, again as commented on the Blackhawk Jacket there are a lot of seams where the stitching is 'exposed' rather than the better concealed type. Maybe in this day and age the cost of making gear with concealed seams is prohibitive?
The seams ARE double stitched though. The knees do have armour, but no padding at the hips.
They have elasticated panels on the calfs, and are a close fit on the legs but good for the body.
I will oil them and use them for a while to see how they 'wear in' for comfort.
If they prove reasonable (which for the price I will expect they will) I will be purchasing at least one more pair.
So if that helps in choosing between the Terminator, or bib n brace pants?
Big Dog
22nd May 2014, 00:40
Well the 1Tonne bib n brace pants arrived today.
First impression. Hefty, good leather, good fit, just about exact for size selected.
Obviously due to the type of pants there are a lot of seams, again as commented on the Blackhawk Jacket there are a lot of seams where the stitching is 'exposed' rather than the better concealed type. Maybe in this day and age the cost of making gear with concealed seams is prohibitive?
The seams ARE double stitched though. The knees do have armour, but no padding at the hips.
They have elasticated panels on the calfs, and are a close fit on the legs but good for the body.
I will oil them and use them for a while to see how they 'wear in' for comfort.
If they prove reasonable (which for the price I will expect they will) I will be purchasing at least one more pair.
So if that helps in choosing between the Terminator, or bib n brace pants?
Thanks Graywolf.
Unless they can do a set of bibs for under $190 delivered I am looking at the ballistics pants as opposed to the bibs. I will keep that in mind though when the time comes have a budget for something other than commuter pants. Much better for very long trips.
Keeps your core warmer etc.
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
1tonne
22nd May 2014, 10:05
Given you are in the thread I feel it is fair to ask: of the two pair I am currently agonising over which would you choose for yourself if you were in my situation? Ballistics or terminator? And why?
They are very similar. One looks better with a sports bike (Terminator Pants) while the other style is for a casual rider or cruiser (Ballistic Pants).
On both pairs of pants I would not wear jeans underneather (some people do though) as they feel uncomfortable.
I personally like the Terminator pants more but that is because I currently ride a sports bike.
Got a question regarding the zips on your leather pants/jackets though. Do you use the locking type zippers on any of your gear? They are the type where once the 'puller' is folded back over, the zip can't be undone. (Example (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RT1ifRY4mIc))
Our garments do not have the locking zip that Alpine Star uses. As already stated, most brands do not use a locking zip.
Obviously due to the type of pants there are a lot of seams, again as commented on the Blackhawk Jacket there are a lot of seams where the stitching is 'exposed' rather than the better concealed type.
The Ballistic Garments are double stitch but this does not detract away from the fact that they are quality garments. A lot of garments from other brands have double stitching (It is very common) and often stitching is exposed.
As for the Black Hawk Jacket and Pants. They have triple stitching in the main seams. Two of the stictches are visable while the third stitch is hidden. Some seams have double stitching where one stitch is visable and one not. If a leather pannel is only decorative it may only have a single stitch.
Big Dog
22nd May 2014, 13:29
They are very similar. One looks better with a sports bike (Terminator Pants) while the other style is for a casual rider or cruiser (Ballistic Pants).
On both pairs of pants I would not wear jeans underneather (some people do though) as they feel uncomfortable.
I personally like the Terminator pants more but that is because I currently ride a sports bike.
Our garments do not have the locking zip that Alpine Star uses. As already stated, most brands do not use a locking zip.
The Ballistic Garments are double stitch but this does not detract away from the fact that they are quality garments. A lot of garments from other brands have double stitching (It is very common) and often stitching is exposed.
As for the Black Hawk Jacket and Pants. They have triple stitching in the main seams. Two of the stictches are visable while the third stitch is hidden. Some seams have double stitching where one stitch is visable and one not. If a leather pannel is only decorative it may only have a single stitch.
Thank you.
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
Big Dog
22nd May 2014, 13:44
).
bike.
.
Being cheeky I have to ask. Do you offer a discount for KBers?
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
1tonne
22nd May 2014, 15:30
Being cheeky I have to ask. Do you offer a discount for KBers?
Good try. Sorry no. Cheers
Big Dog
22nd May 2014, 15:43
Good try. Sorry no. Cheers
Lol, I'll be checking in with the "bank manager" tonight. I'll probably end up buying whichever she wants to see me in if there is no substantive difference.
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
GrayWolf
22nd May 2014, 23:14
Our garments do not have the locking zip that Alpine Star uses. As already stated, most brands do not use a locking zip.
The Ballistic Garments are double stitch but this does not detract away from the fact that they are quality garments. A lot of garments from other brands have double stitching (It is very common) and often stitching is exposed.
As for the Black Hawk Jacket and Pants. They have triple stitching in the main seams. Two of the stictches are visable while the third stitch is hidden. Some seams have double stitching where one stitch is visable and one not. If a leather pannel is only decorative it may only have a single stitch.
Thanks for that, obviously, unless the garment is 'dismantled' the 3rd seam wont always be obvious. Yes I did say some seams are one concealed, one exposed. Overall I would say the Blackhawk exceeds the quality of construction of comparable 'online' jackets, and the bib n brace pants are good leather, and I will again say 'well made'. My comments were being 'critical' rather than decrying.
I do have a jacket (supposed bike jacket) for casual wear and it has a single seam in many areas, including the one attaching the arm to the body (not one of yours), I can assure anyone that one isnt even in the same ballpark as the Blackhawk.
I went for a ride today using the B/hawk and bib n brace pants. Comfortable, things like the knee armour was actually in the right place, which often I find it isnt due to a 1 size fits all leg length. the jacket has good arm length, comfortable around the chest and shoulders, doesnt allow a huge amount of 'up draft' at the waist. Stretch to the bars was comfortable, all in all they will make a good warmer weather distance set. I have a couple of very good quality textile jackets for cooler days riding, but I think the bib n brace pants will find a lot of use...
A second pair will be in the offing before summer if you are keeping them as a frequent item of stock?
Big Dog
26th May 2014, 00:44
Good try. Sorry no. Cheers
I have ordered anyway. Been a long time coming. I started trying to order these when they were only $150. I missed that boat. By a rats whisker. Someone sent me an inside leg for them but by the time I ordered sold out. :doh: then I did not have the moolah for the price with the special gone.
This time my 21 month old cracked a tooth. Had to wait till we had an estimate to order.
So a little later with the order than I originally suggested.
All's well that ends well. If they are as good as thee photos I was sent in response to a website query are anything to go by quality wise it will be time to save up for a matching jacket.
Gloves.
Boots.
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
Big Dog
3rd June 2014, 18:10
Good try. Sorry no. Cheers
I received these Friday. Due to the long weekend and family commitments I finally got to wear them today.
First impressions, very well made, good leather. Will take a lot of breaking in. Very happy camper.
Tried them on. A bit of an odd fit. Very tight in the thighs and calves compared to the seat and ankle size but I can work with that.
I ordered a size down from my measurement because any leather I have bought in the right size always ends up sloppy and misshapen. They are snug everywhere except the seat and the waist. See how they go but I am probably going to have to get them taken in or belt loops added. Wore them for a few hours at home to see if I could get them started on breaking in. Very comfy but fall down at any opportunity.
First ride. Armour placement is spot on. Thighs seem tighter after an hour in the saddle.
Still fall down at every opportunity.
Going to have to do something about that or wear more flattering undies.
A big point to note. These don't look much like the website photos at all and are a far nicer pant with much more flattering style.
The reality addresses all of the concerns I had buying them barring the lack of any fixed adjustment to waist. This can be very important because elastic does not scale well.
In all I am a happy camper, and I hope to add a matching jacket and gloves when budget allows. Although this could be a long way off.
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
1tonne
3rd June 2014, 18:25
Normally to get the right size first time round it is best to measure your waist. Do not go off your jeans size as it will be wrong.
If they are too loose and they are still in brand new condition, send them back with a note asking for a size down and also include $6.50 for return freight. We will exchange them for you. Snug is good.
Also the photos on the website do need changing as we recently had the pants upgraded and so the pics do not do the pants justice.
Cheers for the feedback.
Big Dog
3rd June 2014, 18:33
Yeah, I went a size down already. Any further down and the thighs will be too tight. They may be a half size too small. But I'd rather work to fit them than swap them. Based on the tape I needed a 5xl. I think I need less elastic or less pies. I'll take less pies.
They fit really well just don't stay up. Too much elastic. Next size down would not go on I am sure.
Stupid phone / Tapatalk, apologies in advance.
1tonne
3rd June 2014, 19:49
You may want to try some braces then. Cheers
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