I'm a big fan of the Super Ego - love mine! :thumbup:If you can find one at a good price I would recommend the Super Ego (leather) or Alter Ego (Textile) from Joe Rocket. They offer good protection and the bonus of zipping off the torso area to reveal mesh allowing for riding in warmer weather while still protected.
Thanks for the info. I will probably do a little more research if/once some other riders post their suggestions. Out of curiosity, do you know the difference between the GX Sport and the GX Air, other than price? As I mentioned, the GX Air was a consideration, but I didn't know if textile is the way to go. Also, how would I know which size to get, since most dealers around here do not carry either style while trying to avoid returning a coat for a different size? Any measuring tips?I really do love my Cortech textile jacket! I rode to work this morning at 27 degrees. The removable liner rocks, it has excellent padding and it has that "sporty" cut look you might be after. It also has the 8" zipper for attaching pants, which I have done with my textile overpants. In hot weather, the liner comes out and the vents get opened up to allow air to flow through the jacket pretty well.
I recommend buying from New Enough because their customer service is the best, hands down. If you need to exchange for a different size or style, they are very accommodating. The also tend to have the lowest prices.
Cortech by Tour Master GX Sport Series 2 Textile Motorcycle Jacket :: New Enough, LTD
The GX sport (what I have) is a textile jacket, while the GX air (what you are looking at) is a mesh jacket. Mesh jackets will not offer anywhere near the level of protection that a textile or leather jacket will. Personally, in my opinion, I would stay away from mesh jackets because I don't feel the material is strong enough to offer a high level of resistance to abrasion.Thanks for the info. I will probably do a little more research if/once some other riders post their suggestions. Out of curiosity, do you know the difference between the GX Sport and the GX Air, other than price? As I mentioned, the GX Air was a consideration, but I didn't know if textile is the way to go. Also, how would I know which size to get, since most dealers around here do not carry either style while trying to avoid returning a coat for a different size? Any measuring tips?
Thank you again for the information. To be honest, I thought mesh and textile were the same thing. What is the jacket like when it comes to being waterproof? Did you say it had a removable liner? Is the liner mainly for winter riding, or is the jacket comfortable enough to leave it in during the warm summer? I also assume there is armor in the elbows, shoulder, and back? Thanks, and take care.The GX sport (what I have) is a textile jacket, while the GX air (what you are looking at) is a mesh jacket. Mesh jackets will not offer anywhere near the level of protection that a textile or leather jacket will. Personally, in my opinion, I would stay away from mesh jackets because I don't feel the material is strong enough to offer a high level of resistance to abrasion.
As far as sizing goes, it's a hit or miss kinda thing with each maker. Each manufacturer has a slightly different fit, even in the same size across brands. If you are unable to try on a jacket you are interested in, refer to that manufacturer's sizing chart/information. They are usually pretty accurate.